Cambridge sports complex given thumbs up
A new long-awaited sports centre at Cambridge University has been given the green light by the city council's planning committee, reports Cambridge News.
The first phase of a £16 million operation will commence in the next three months, with the eventual opening being earmarked for summer 2013.
The "domed" complex on the West Cambridge campus off Madingley Road has been likened to iconic building Sydney Opera House in its design. However, its contents will be significantly different - the first phase involves a main sports hall, a weights room, five squash courts and a fitness suite.
Other phases will include the construction of a swimming pool and a tennis hall, cites Construction Enquirer.
The University is providing Sports Syndicate, the body responsible for building the centre, with a £10 million loan, while a further £5 million will be raised in donations.
It is expected that construction recruitment in the Cambridge area will increase in the weeks building up to the start of the project.
Anthony Lemons, the university's physical education director, expressed his delight regarding the approval: "We are very excited about the project moving forward and hope that it will make a really positive contribution to individuals, groups and clubs from the university and local community wishing to engage in health and well-being, fitness, leisure and sporting activities."