PLANS have been put in place to redevelop the tired looking Pavilion in Stanhope Park, Holsworthy.

This large undertaking is set to include an extension and refurbishment of the existing pavilion with proposals to include the provision of: two main changing rooms complete with self contained toilets and shower facilities; two officials’ changing rooms and shower facilities; public toilets for spectators, facility users and visitors to the park - with no toilets in the park at present; a community hall — within the existing stone built pavilion; new kitchen facilities; equipment storage building and plant room.

The project is likely to cost in the region of £250,000. The town council has ring fenced £104,000 for the project from s.106 agreements linked with housing developments in the town and are in discussions with the FA and ECB regarding funding applications to these governing bodies.

The council has commissioned a local company to compile a funding application to Sport England, for the majority of the remaining money required.

This leaves only a small amount left to raise and the town council will be appealing to the local community for help. Following the success of the Long House appeal the hope is for the local community to get behind this new project and help fund the creation of this huge asset for the town.

The plans are part of a wider redevelopment of the park. This began with the installation of the children’s play area and more recently the addition of outdoor gym equipment.

A new full sized sports pitch and parking provision, immediately to the north of the pavilion, is to be handed over to the council in 2016. Plans are also moving forward to establish a multi-use games area on the site of the old tennis court.

The pavilion project will provide much needed toilet facilities within the park along with changing facilities for local sports groups such as the youth football and cricket clubs along with their associated adult clubs and emerging clubs such as Holsworthy Peloton Cycling Club.

The community hall and kitchen will also provide a wonderful meeting place and central hub within the park from which health and outdoor leisure activities for all ages and abilities can thrive.

There is a call out to any groups, organisiations or individuals of Holsworthy who feel they may be able to make use of the pavilion once the project is completed. Any help offered will be greatly received.

The various funding applications are planned to be submitted early next year with work hoping to commence in autumn 2016.