A MULTI-MILLION pound project to create a new sports village on the edge of Thirsk has been given a cash boost.

The £5 million Hambleton District Council scheme has been awarded £643,118 from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) – which means work can now begin bringing the land into use for informal recreational use.

The funding, along with developer contributions from the Sowerby Gateway development, will be used to reclaim land off Gravel Hole Lane.

Council Leader, Councillor Mark Robson, welcomed the European Fund investment.

He said: “Getting this cash gives this exciting project the green light.

“It will give Sowerby – and the adjacent community of Thirsk – a great new recreational facility on their doorstep. “While we are leading on the scheme, we have brought together a host of organisations to deliver it.”

The Sowerby Sports Village is part of the Gateway scheme which is creating retail, leisure, employment land, care provision and more than 900 new homes to the area.

The first phase is creating an environmental space project, which will include the installation of a sustainable drainage system, allotments, a 1km fitness trail and extensive planting.

Subject to funding, the finished scheme will also include football and rugby pitches, an all-weather pitch, pavilion, BMX track and a youth facility.

Esh Construction Limited has been appointed to deliver this first phase.

Steve Conn, divisional director said “Esh Construction are delighted to be working in partnership with Hambleton District Council to develop this project.

“The Hambleton district is host to an array of Olympic medallists and whether members of the community are interested in informal recreations, playing sports, or are keen cyclists, or runners, there’s sure to be something to cater for everyone at this fantastic facility.

“Here’s hoping the site will accommodate Olympians of the future once complete.”

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is the Managing Authority for ERDF.

It was established by the European Union to help local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support innovation, businesses, create jobs and regeneration.