LET us not miss this unique opportunity to deliver a Sports Village for Wycombe!

A number of sports in the Wycombe district have come together as Wycombe Sports Village Group (WSVG) as we firmly believe that a Sports Village could be of great benefit to Wycombe. That is of benefit for our local community, schools, youth and disadvantaged people, as well as our club and league players. A Sports Village will complement a Community Stadium, it will be a great destination and iconic facility that will enhance our district.

With a critical mass of sports working together we have already identified that we can deliver breadth, depth and excellence for badminton, cricket, cycling, hockey, table tennis and an ever growing number of sports are interested in working with us. This directly benefits a significant number of people within our district on an ongoing basis. We have already engaged with and received a great deal of support and expertise from Sport England and our National Governing bodies.

They have committed to help deliver our vision and some funding will come from them, as well as our local sport organisations.

We understand the need for enabling development to raise the initial funding for the new facility. Our initial findings show that once a village is built our individual sports will be self-sufficient on an ongoing basis, but our findings also show that, like the stadium, we will need some support in the initial build and fit-out stage. If done well the Sports Village is a real investment in the future for us and our children and offer sporting and financial returns to the district.

Each sport will be in control of its own area, sporting strategy and delivery, but by bringing the sports together at a common site we can achieve the critical mass that allows increased participation by all, but especially young people.

The sharing of common facilities will maximise usage and reduce costs. Additionally delivering a central pool of professionals, coaches and volunteers for all sport allows working as a hub but fully supports outreach and activities for the wider area.

We can enhance our district’s sporting excellence for youth, senior and national players.

So why a sports village? It delivers critical mass and an iconic destination.

It benefits the local community, local sports clubs and leagues; including disadvantaged and challenged groups. Costs are shared and reduced. A self-sustaining heritage is delivered for Wycombe.

Let’s do it!

Jeff Brydon, Wycombe Sports Village Group, Stanley Road, High Wycombe