Quinn Estates have set the template for delivering regeneration projects with the community at heart, according to guests at an event marking the start on work of the new Herne Bay Sports Hub.
This exciting new complex is part of a multi-million-pound investment in the coastal Kent town by the Canterbury-based developer that will provide a new base for local football, hockey, tennis and cricket teams.
A planning application for the 100-acre site was approved by Canterbury City Council in September 2015 with the sporting super hub sitting alongside other elements of this flagship mixed-use development.
Mark Quinn, said: “We’re delighted building work is now underway on the Herne Bay sports hub today. It’s been brilliant to see so many show up and support the scheme, from all generations.
“I’m passionate about sport and the chance to create something that can have a positive impact for years to come is incredibly important to me. It’s not often that you can truly say you’ve created a legacy, but I feel that this is what we’ve done here.
“We will be delivering an investment of £20 million in this scheme. I think that figure confidently demonstrates how much we want to give back to the community – not just here, but with all our schemes regardless of size. As a company, we pride ourselves on delivery – and always try to build something that is an exemplar development to set the standard for others.”
Sir Roger Gale MP said: “The launch of the Herne Bay sports hub proves just how supportive a local community can be when given the opportunity. Quinn Estates have committed themselves to providing what will be some first-rate facilities here. These playing fields and pavilion facilities will be transformative in the sporting life of the town for generations to come and will be of immense value to is going to the town and its local youth sports teams.
“Those who will use the facilities and who were represented at the launch were excited and delighted to have the chance to show their enthusiasm and appreciation for the project. Quinn Estates have a right to be very be proud of what they will have achieved here.”
Cllr Mark Dance said: “The sports hub makes a strong statement about the town’s future as a thriving, successful and community-driven location.
“This is a key strategic site and we are pleased to see the progress today that Quinn Estates have already made in developing the site. It’s no surprise that, in the planning stages, the submitted proposals had received 1,200 letters of support and just four objections.
Clive Cripps, Chairman of Herne Bay Hockey Club, said: “New facilities will mean Herne Bay can compete on a level with hockey clubs across the area and expand our successful junior section. We have around 300 junior members and work in local primary and secondary schools which will also benefit from this investment so more children can get involved.”
Carl Born, Chairman of Herne Bay Youth Football Club, said: “Our club provides a crucial amenity for 400 local young people. We will be able to do so much more for the community if we have our own pitch and facilities, which these proposals will deliver.”
The development is one of the largest planning permissions to be granted within the Canterbury district, with the facilities developed in full consultation with local sports and community groups in the town. It will see a significant amount of publicly accessible space providing a range of recreational opportunities, connected to existing walking and cycling routes that surround the site.
