The Brickfields athletics track and field facility in Devonport has reopened following a £700,000 upgrade.
Its 400-metre running track has been completely re-laid and the long jump, high jump, shot put, throwing cage and water jump have all been refurbished.
The site will also benefit from extra storage facilities and a new hut for officials, as well as a new two-metre perimeter fence and an upgraded CCTV system.
Deputy Council Leader Peter Smith said: “I’m delighted that Plymouth can once again boast a high-quality athletics venue, following these major improvement works. It’s not just for super-fit club runners and athletes – it’s a facility that everyone can use.
“We will continue to work with Everyone Active to develop a year-round activity programme that not only supports local clubs and athletes but also includes activities that promote health and wellbeing for all.”
UK Athletics have awarded the outdoor facility Track Mark accreditation under their new quality assurance scheme, meaning it is well managed and maintained and accessible to participants of all abilities.
The site attracts over 18,500 attendances a year from clubs, schools, universities and the MoD and has produced top-class athletes such as sprinter Katherine Endacott and hurdler David King. It is also home to the City of Plymouth Athletic Club and is well-used by the Armada Network (representing 11 local running clubs).
Paul Crutchley, Chairman of the City of Plymouth Athletic Club, said: “We would like to thank Smith Construction and Plymouth City Council for the refurbishment of the Brickfields track and field facility. It is now a really high quality arena that everyone can use come rain or shine. We hope that local organisations, schools and other community groups will utilise these facilities going forward.
“The City of Plymouth Athletic Club is a voluntary sports club and is always looking for volunteers and assistants to help with coaching and running the club. Anyone interested in joining our club and trying out track and field can contact us via our website.”
Julian Egan, contract manager at Everyone Active, said: “We are thrilled to reopen the track and field facility following its massive upgrade and the investment from Plymouth City Council.
“It’s great to be celebrating something positive during these unsettling times and giving the community a venue to be proud of. We’re looking forward to welcoming people back to the track and seeing them utilise it to stay active and enjoy the improvements.”
Facilities can be hired by clubs, groups or schools on a regular basis or for one-off events. Individuals can also access the facilities for personal training.
For more information or to enquire about bookings call 01752 563320 or visit the Everyone Active website.