To view or download the current design proposals see above.
Words: Andrew Grindrod.
Through the last few months we have made good progress on the project. We have undertaken surveys for site investigation, drainage, trees, ecology and services capacity and now are aware of any issues that we need to address as part of the development.
The architects have also developed the scheme further, taking on hockey club members comments in response to the club questionnaire and with regards the initial concept scheme.
Whilst maintaining as lower profile as possible for planning reasons the images indicate a building with presence to both the hockey pitch and from the football pitches as you approach the main entrance. The building will be fully Sport England compliant in terms of layout and room areas and will be as sustainable as possible.
In addition to the four changing rooms and club room the layout now also includes a wider circulation corridor with storage areas adjacent, shower cubicles, dedicated first aid /baby change room and two accessible toilets outside of the changing areas.
The latest proposals are attached for your review. If you do have any comments, please forward them so we can consider any issues as we finalise the designs.
Build Costs
We are currently working through the costs of the build and looking to deliver as much of the vision indicated on the current proposals as possible. Construction costs are challenging at the moment but we are reviewing how we can deliver as much of the facilities as possible within our budget.
Funding
As previously indicated we will require grant funding to supplement the clubs fund raising efforts, however applications for grants are not accepted until we have a planning approval.
We have however commenced discussions with Sport England and England Hockey so that they are aware of our plans and can support us through the process.
Costs for the survey and design works to planning application stage have been covered through the fundraising through the summer (well done Sam, Emmie, and Alice amongst others) and the award of a £20,000.00 grant from the Leeds City Council Communities Fund.
Timescales
We presented the proposals to the AWMA board last week and they have confirmed approval for us to finalise the design proposals and submit a full planning application in the new year. Whilst being fully supportive of our intentions it is unlikely that the AWMA will be able to support us financially.
Given the significant funds that we are going to have to raise we don’t foresee construction of the main build until Spring 2026 at the earliest.
If anyone has any queries, please don’t hesitate to get in touch
Andrew Grindrod andrewgrindrod6@gmail.com
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