A NEW state-of-the-art sports pavilion has moved a step closer to becoming a reality with the start of the construction phase of the project.

Situated on Sidley Recreation Ground, the fully accessible Sidley Hub will provide first-class sports changing facilities for the area, as well as a café, accessible toilets, off street parking and spaces for hire by local groups for sport play and informal recreational use.

The old toilet block and changing rooms on the site were demolished earlier this month and construction of the new hub starts this week.

People may notice increased activity at the site as the contractor, BMR Construction, begins the building work.

Councillor Hazel Timpe, portfolio holder for neighbourhood services at Rother District Council, said: “I am delighted that this fantastic project from Heart of Sidley is taking another big step forward towards completion.

“This £3.4 million development is a massive boost for the community and I look forward to seeing the new hub take shape over the coming months.”

The start of the hub’s construction is another major step in the £19.3 million Levelling Up Fund project that will deliver cultural-led regeneration and help improve much needed community facilities in Sidley.

It is expected that the new Sidley Hub will be completed by June 2026.

Jay Carroll, Chair of Heart of Sidley, said: “The old shower block at Sidley Recreation Ground is officially no more.  This is an exciting and significant step in our journey to create an incredible new community hub. 

“We couldn’t have done it without the amazing support of our community.  Thank you to everyone who has been with us on this incredible journey. We are so excited about our future at the heart of the community.”

More information about Heart of Sidley and the new hub can be found at https://heartofsidley.co.uk

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Published: 18th August 2025