AN alliance of sports clubs have united against plans for a new leisure complex in north Colchester.

Despite Colchester Council’s vision for its Northern Gateway to include and enhance facilities for existing clubs, the plans have been branded not fit for purpose.

Concerns were also raised over the creation of an archery ground on the site car park - but the council has insisted this idea has now been shelved.

The alliance, comprising Colchester Gladiators American football team, Colchester Archery Club, Iceni Dog Training and Eastern Rhinos Rugby League have sent a joint letter of objection to the council.

Tom Burridge, of Colchester Gladiators, said: “The whole plan to demolish the existing rugby club and build on the site at Mill Road has hit plenty of opposition, and now it’s becoming clear the plans for the Northern Gateway sports hub are not fit for purpose either.

“The sports clubs have sent a letter to the council in protest, but I doubt things are going to get changed.”

Plans for the leisure complex reveal an archery ground designated as part of a car park, no facilities for cricket, American football, rugby league and a dog training area half the required size.

Their letter to Colchester Council states: “All the clubs have noted that the Northern Gateway even fails to satisfactorily replace the sports facilities currently based at Mill Road and builds in no clear additional provision for new facilities needed to cater for the increased demands arising from the major levels of new housing identified for this area.”

But a Colchester Council spokesperson said: “All sports users are being relocated to facilities that at the very least match their existing conditions, providing further leisure opportunities for residents and visitors alike, boosting participation levels for all.

“We are in discussion with the Archery Club about the best location and the ancillary facilities required for its activities.

“We have yet to find agreement with the Dog Training Club for a new site, because of the space requirements they have, and discussions are ongoing.

“The council believes it has broadly accommodated the American Football playing surface and timetabling requirements including access to sports changing rooms in the rugby pavilion, and will be looking at the arrangement of the pitches in the area to see how additional space for training can be accommodated.”

The spokesperson added: “The cricket club will be relocated to a brand new pitch and pavilion at Mile End.”