WORK to create the main access route into the new Sowerby Sports Village has begun.

An access road – which includes a turning circle to allow coaches to service the new primary school if needed – a pedestrian footway that will link to the existing town square adjacent to Orchid House and a crossing point to the school are being created.

Located off Gravel Hole Lane in Sowerby, the 11.1 hectare site was transferred to Hambleton District Council in 2016 to be developed for recreational purposes.

The work – expected to take three months – complements the first stage of the sports village which opened last month to allow local residents to take exercise during the coronavirus pandemic.

Residents of Sowerby, near Thirsk, are being urged to follow government guidelines on social distancing.

Councillor Mark Robson, leader of Hambleton District Council said: “I am delighted we were able to open phase one for local people to enjoy – and that we can now progress with the next stage.It is an exciting project that will see a range of facilities for people to access sport and physical activity regardless of age or ability.”

ESH Construction has been appointed to undertake the latest works – the company has stringent processes in place to ensure they adhere to social distancing and sanitisation requirements.