14 August
The University is developing a partnership with Sheffield City Council that will create a lasting legacy for athletics in the city.
Under the terms of the partnership, Sheffield Hallam would be responsible for the future management and maintenance of Woodbourn Road athletics stadium under a long lease from the Council. The proposed plan is being developed in consultation with local athletics clubs and community groups which will be guaranteed use of the new facilities.
In addition, and to support rising athletics stars as well as the future of athletics in Sheffield, the Council are to create a development fund.
The proposal has already received the backing of the city’s main athletics clubs – City of Sheffield and Hallamshire Harriers – as well as the full support of Sport England and England Athletics.
The Council is currently refurbishing the stadium with a £150,000 grant from Sport England. It is intended that work will be completed in time for city athletics activity to transfer into these new first-class facilities when Don Valley Stadium closes at the end of September 2013.
The University has a strong reputation for the academic quality of its sport and physical activity teaching and research. Participation in sport is also a major feature of student life at the University. This new development is the latest in a portfolio of investments in sport facilities which includes the sports ground at Bawtry Road, a sport campus at English Institute of Sport Sheffield and the installation of the Olympic hockey pitch at Abbeydale Sports Club.
Whilst our students will benefit from the sporting facilities at Woodbourn, in addition, it will provide them with some excellent employability and volunteering opportunities.
The details of the partnership deal will be finalised over the course of the summer.
Read more at http://www.shu.ac.uk/mediacentre/partnership-gives-long-term-boost-city-athletics