Sports complex to be considered in Beaumont Leys

Plans for speedway and other sports at Beaumont Park are to be considered by Leicester City Council.

Beaumont Sports Consortium has put forward a proposal to develop a speedway track along with a five-a-side soccer centre and cycling initiatives at Beaumont Park. If the proposals are approved it would give Leicester Lions Speedway Club a city home after an absence of 25 years.

Patricia Hewitt, MP for Leicester West has conducted a wide consultation with the local community, including chairing a public meeting last November. Patricia said “These facilities will be of great benefit to my constituents. However, I know that from meeting with local residents, there are concerns about the noise and pollution that a speedway track might bring to the area. That is why I am working very closely with the Council and the Developers to ensure we get the best possible outcome for my constituents."

meeting

(Patricia chairing the public meeting in November 2007)

Cllr Andy Connelly, Cabinet lead for culture and council officers met with members of the consortium last week. The city council has agreed to look at the proposals. The city council’s Cabinet will consider a more detailed plan later this year. Cllr Connelly said: “I welcomed the opportunity to meet with the consortium. This is an exciting development for the city, which will bring real benefits to the area. However, it will not be delivered overnight and a number of obstacles need to be overcome. We shall continue to listen to the views of local people as these proposals are developed ”.

David Hemsley of S&P Architects, the consultants leading the project said: “This is a very exciting and unique opportunity for the local community and for the city. If our plans go ahead it will provide facilities for the city now, and a legacy for future generations. It could be a catalyst for activity in Beaumont Park and mark the return of Leicester Lions Speedway Club to the city”.

Patricia Hewitt will be holding a further public consultation later in the year, details of which will be published on her website.

Please leave your comments below.