As plans progress for the proposed Bowlee Football and Community Wellbeing Hub, consultation with local communities and stakeholders continues to play an important role in shaping the project.
Last week, RAFC Community Director Ryan Bradley met with committee members from across Our Teams during a walk around the site, discussing the proposals in detail and gathering valuable feedback that will help inform the final design.
The Club Advisory Board – established to represent a broad cross-section of supporters and provide guidance on key club initiatives – has also reviewed the plans and expressed its support.
A public consultation event, organised by planning consultants Enabl, took place at David Lloyd Health Club on 25th June. The event was attended by local councillors and members of the public, providing an opportunity for people to ask questions, gain further information and share their views on the proposals.
Ryan Bradley, Community Director, commented:
“Ultimately, this project is about improving the existing playing fields and creating opportunities for more people in Middleton to take part in sport, physical activity and community wellbeing.
“The consultation has been extremely valuable. It has given us the opportunity to explain the proposals in more detail, clarify some misconceptions and, most importantly, listen to the concerns that have been raised by local residents.
“For example, some people were concerned that the football club would take over the entire site and restrict public access. That is not the case.
“The proposals are designed to enhance the facilities while ensuring the wider park remains accessible for the community to enjoy.
“We were also able to explain that the football club’s facilities are being privately funded, without the use of external grant funding, which provided reassurance to a number of attendees.”
One of the key topics raised during the consultation was parking and ensuring that people can continue to access the park for walking, cycling and informal recreation.
Ryan added:
“We have considered these issues from the outset.
“Our plans include maintaining parking provision for park users and ensuring the wider park continues to support activities such as walking, dog walking and informal sport, just as it does today.
“We will make sure these commitments are clearly reflected within the planning submission.
“Residents also raised questions around drainage and transport. These are important considerations, and our specialist consultants are carrying out detailed surveys and assessments to ensure any potential impacts are properly understood and addressed.
“As part of the formal planning process, these reports will be publicly available for everyone to review.”
Planning consultants Enabl are keen to hear from anyone with an interest in the proposals.
Members of the public are encouraged to complete the consultation survey, with responses forming part of the formal community consultation accompanying the planning application.
You can view the plans below, and we encourage you to complete the short survey HERE.
