Senator Lyndon Farnham has responded to a question from Deputy Rob Ward during a States sitting where he asked what consultation had been undertaken with local residents before any redevelopment of the site.
As part of the government’s Fiscal Stimulus Fund – released to boost economic growth in the wake of the pandemic – significant funding has been assigned to improve facilities at Springfield. The grant comes after the government announced its Inspiring Active Places strategy, which is set to facilitate a rehoming process for sports clubs currently based at Fort Regent.
Responding to Deputy Ward, Senator Farnham said that a public consultation is already underway and that the only external works planned will be away from the main building.
‘The project at Springfield Stadium to create an Active Gym and fitness studios in the current sports hall consists of internal works and will not impact externally on the current building,’ he said.
‘A planning application will be submitted to extend the parking by 37 parking bays. The design for this ensures the existing trees remain in place and are protected. The play area will be moved to the south side of the park, near to the five-a-side area, to accommodate the additional parking.’
Commenting on the consultation process, Senator Farnham said: ‘Residents can currently participate in the formal consultation that is now under way on sports facilities that will be provided in future through the Inspiring Active Places strategy.
‘There are no plans for other consultation specifically with residents but the project director would be happy to meet with any neighbours to discuss the plan in detail.’
The Inspiring Active Places public consultation is open until 30 April and can be found at www.inspiringactiveplaces.je.
