Fishwick Rangers Youth and Community Development Scheme have opened their new new Sports City complex in Preston.
The new sports centre was designed to inspire a future crop of young people and local residents.
Located in the Ashton ward of Preston, the charity-run centre offers a multi-purpose sports hall with a separate gym, a boxing arena, 2 x state of the art indoor 3g football pitches and numerous studios which will house fitness classes.
Construction on the first phase of the development began last May, and consultation for the next stage continues with proposals in place to enhance the site.
The centre will bring improved access to sports and gym facilities, which it is hoped will ultimately unlock a generation of sporting talent in the north and create jobs.
Chief executive of the centre, Fayyaz Ahmed MBE, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that we are now finally open after years of planning and a year of construction.
“The people visiting us have all given us hugely positive feedback, and have been impressed with the design of the building and what we have on offer with regard to equipment and classes.
“It certainly seems to have the wow factor.
“Preston has needed these facilities for a long time and there’s nothing like this anywhere else in the area. In particular, looking to engage the marginalised communities who struggle for cheap, affordable Health & Well-Being initiatives.
“This was the first huge milestone in what is a significant development in sport for the region and it feels really good to be open. The prices will be very affordable for the local community”
The SM Boxing Gym will be managed by Suz Member. It is open Monday-Friday 4pm onwards.
Mr Ahmed added, “The development of the Sports City Centre has been a real community effort, however we need to continue our efforts to ensure the future phases can be implemented as well.
The grand opening saw over 500 people walk through the doors and provided plenty of feedback with regards to the new premises.
Activities that will be available from the site (including private hire), will include – Indoor Football (3G surface); Indoor Football (Sports Hall); Volleyball; Badminton; Short Tennis; Archery; Netball; Boxing courtesy of SM Boxing; Single Gender Gym Sessions and Classes (Male & Female); Dodgeball; Cricket; Walking Clubs; Holiday Clubs.
For any bookings or enquiries you can call:Fayyaz on 07966 525835 or Naila on 07432 108461.
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