A LONG-awaited sports pavilion project has received a substantial financial boost from a local enterprise group.

The Greater Dartmoor LEAF has decided to donate £20,000 to OCRA toward the development of a multi-purpose sports pavilion with changing, storage and recreation facilities. The pavilion would be shared between Okehampton College and the local community.

Liz Abell, programme manager for the Greater Dartmoor LEAF said: 'The Greater Dartmoor LEAF is pleased to have awarded £20,000 to OCRA towards the project to develop the Hub Community Pavilion, which will support clubs, societies and community events and enable improved functionality of the existing site for sports, arts, dance, play and music. 

'This will not only benefit the Okehampton community, but will reach further across West Devon.'

Stuart Lord from OCRA said: 'This is great news, and a timely boost for the project.

'The community pavilion is an exciting project that will allow for a wide range of sports and recreational activities to develop in this spectacular setting of Okehampton College and Simmons Park, and for Okehampton to attract and deliver prestigious events.

'The eco-friendly pavilion consists of much needed changing rooms for sports and activity, modern social and performing space for all, spectacular viewing areas, club equipment storage, office space and much more.

'OCRA have so far found funding of £320,000 towards the project costs and are also awaiting to hear from other potential funders.

'The project is looking to work with local builders and also for some of the elements of the build to be led by volunteers from clubs and the community.'

The Sports and Activity Hub project has already led to the construction of the all-weather pitch and improvement of cricket, squash and gymnastics facilities at the college, and the opening of new play and fitness equipment in Simmons Park last Spring.

Anyone who would like to help the development of the project, e-mail OCRA at [email protected]">[email protected] or call 01837 54546.

Further information on the project is available at http://www.ocrasport.org.uk">www.ocrasport.org.uk