WORK is underway on two new community sports facilities in Clacton and Walton thanks to a £500,000 investment.
The PlayZone projects, funded by Tendring Council and the Football Foundation, are being built on council-owned land at Clacton Leisure Centre and Bathhouse Meadow in Walton.
Mick Barry, councillor responsible for leisure and public realm, said: "This is a significant joint investment in Clacton and Walton-on-the-Naze which will help remove barriers to physical activity and give more residents the opportunity to enjoy sport close to home.
"Tendring District Council has committed more than £132,000 to the project, as well as making council-owned land available and bringing together expertise from teams across the authority to help make these plans a reality.
"Working in partnership with the Football Foundation means we can deliver high-quality facilities that neither organisation could provide alone, with both partners sharing the ambition of creating healthier and more connected communities.
"The PlayZones will be welcoming and accessible spaces where residents can get active, meet others and build confidence, whether that is through a kickabout with friends, an organised fitness session or another community activity.
"I would particularly like to thank the residents and local groups who helped shape the plans.
"Their involvement has been central to the project, and we look forward to seeing the PlayZones take shape over the coming weeks."
Tendring Council has invested £132,484 into the £529,938 scheme, alongside a £397,454 grant from the Football Foundation.
The PlayZones are designed as small-sided, multi-use sports facilities to support football and other community activities.
Both sites were selected following in-depth community consultation, ensuring the facilities meet the needs and aspirations of residents.
Construction began at Clacton Leisure Centre on September 1, with completion expected in October.
Work at Bathhouse Meadow in Walton is set to start on October 5.
Robert Sullivan, chief executive of the Football Foundation, said: "When it comes to tackling the greatest inequalities to becoming active, the Football Foundation knows a ‘one-size fits all’ approach doesn’t work.
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"That’s why community engagement is at the heart of our PlayZones programme.
"As with all PlayZones, the new facilities in Clacton and Walton-on-the-Naze have been shaped by the local communities who’ll be able to step out onto the pitch and get active in a way that suits them.
"Thanks to the funding we receive from our partners – the Premier League, The FA and Government, the Foundation will be delivering over 200 PlayZones like this one across the country."
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