| South Manchester residents have welcomed the opening of the Hough End Leisure Complex following its major redevelopment.
The state-of-the-art centre has been developed to become an important resource hub for the local community, featuring modern facilities and new equipment for both indoor and outdoor activities across a two-storey extension. Providing a multi-faceted and sustainable space for sporting enthusiasts has been one of the driving forces behind the ambitious project, nurturing a rich sporting community in Manchester. The improved centre will make long-term growth and inclusivity a priority for people that have dealt with inequalities, offering a space for women and girls, ethnic communities and people with disabilities and long-term health conditions. It now offers an extended 90-station gym area, health and fitness studio, cafe, storage facilities, office space and much more. Open seven days a week, more than 20 community clubs, schools and leagues across sport are expected to benefit from the landmark site with ongoing work proposed to improve the pitches to include capacity for club training and recreational activities. Further space has also been allocated for visitors arriving by car to prevent overflowing. The Hough End Leisure Centre programme was developed in partnership with the City Council, McrActive, Sport England and the Football Foundation, which aims to support thousands of new and existing visitors to the centre. Councillor John Hacking (pictured left) said: “I’m pleased to see the extensive redevelopment of the Hough End Leisure Centre and its surrounding playing fields complete and now open for visitors following a dedicated collaboration with our partners to make this an investment that pours back into the local community.” Robert Sullivan, chief executive of the Football Foundation, said: “Good quality playing facilities have a transformative impact on physical and mental health and play an important role in bringing people together and strengthening local communities. “We’re delighted that the local community in South Manchester will now be able to enjoy all these benefits thanks to the new Hub at Hough End Leisure Centre. “Thanks to the investment we receive from our funding partners, the Premier League, The FA and Government, the Football Foundation is working to deliver more Hubs like this across the country so that everyone can have access to great places to play.” |
Hough End Leisure Centre redevelopment is complete
