Joy as new sports pitch is opened at Southwater Leisure Centre


The new turf at the village’s leisure centre, in Pevensey Road, is a multi-user games area that can be used throughout the year for a number of sports including basketball and hockey.
Helene O’Brien, who lives in the village, volunteered to help Southwater Parish Council apply for funding for the project, and said she is looking forward to her young daughter playing there.
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Hide AdShe said: “Every time I look at it I will say, ‘mummy got involved in this project’.
“It is something that is going to be there for the next 20 years, so the next few generations can enjoy it.”
The parish council received grants of £50,000 from Sport England and £1,000 from Gatwick Area Conservation Trust to make the project possible.
Young athletes cheered while MP Francis Maude cut a ribbon to officially open the area.
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Hide AdMr Maude said: “It is built to last. I imagine it will be getting a lot of use and that is what we want.”
Peter Buckley, chairman of Southwater Parish Council said the new sports area is a boost for the entire village.
He said: “It is an excellent facility for the leisure centre. We are trying to listen to what people are saying to us and provide what they want.”
Horsham District Councillor Claire Vickers, who also sits on Southwater Parish Council, said: “I am absolutely delighted - it is a fantastic facility for the community and I commend the parish council for their efforts.”