People in Lowestoft are being urged to have their say to help shape the future of a prominent football centre.
Back in October 2022 Suffolk FA took over Barnards Soccer Centre in Lowestoft, which had previously been run by Sentinel Leisure Trust up until the leisure and fitness operator ceased trading in March last year.
Now, just over a year later, the site has undergone significant changes - with more still to come, as it looks to embark on an "ambitious regeneration project".
It has been rebranded as Barnards Meadow Football Centre, with the classroom and social space within the pavilion regenerated.
New internal and external signage has been installed, with advertising opportunities for local companies introduced.
A Suffolk FA spokesman said: "The site was in need of regeneration and Suffolk FA will continue to seek investment in order to make the site a community hub for all things - football as well as physical and mental wellbeing."
Since October last year, staff have been employed on site and thanks to funding, the old classroom has been transformed into a high-quality education and social space.
Despite this the site is "still in desperate need of investment" - with a £400,000 Regeneration Project mooted.
Suffolk FA Football Development Manager Matt Stebbings, who is the county’s facilities and investment lead, said: "The 3G playing surface needs to be replaced, the old metal halide floodlight system needs upgrading to a new LED floodlight system and the pavilion – changing rooms, toilets, kitchen and match official rooms – all require work to ensure the site continues to be open for the local community.
"Without these regenerations and investment, the site will reach the end of its serviceable life and close."
According to Suffolk FA, initial feasibility work has indicated around £300,000 to replace the 3G pitch, £30,000 to upgrade to LED floodlights and £60,000 to restore the pavilion.
Mr Stebbings added: "The site has now entered a key phase in the project to bring Barnards Meadow Football Centre back to life."
'Engagement aimed at everyone'
With the site being successful with some funding schemes for the wider project, Mr Stebbings added: "A drive towards community engagement is the next phase and the team is asking for your input.
"As part of the community engagement, Suffolk FA, the Football Foundation, Sport England, DCMS, East Suffolk Council (and members) and Government (Community Ownership Fund) are currently working to understand how any regeneration of the site could benefit the local Lowestoft community.
"We have created a short form to hear your voice, and your opinions.
"What do you want to see at Barnards Meadow Football Centre?"
Chris Bond, Facilities and Football Development Officer, added: "As we begin to plan the regeneration, we want to ensure the site can cater for not just the traditional football offer but wider physical and mental health benefits from informal activity.
"This engagement is aimed at anyone and everyone."
To access the community engagement have your say via https://forms.office.com/e/1mqVi5BBQP
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here