R4U reaffirms commitment to new Uttlesford sports funding as new running track opens

Residents for Uttlesford (R4U) is delighted at the opening of the Olympic-standard public running track at Carver Barracks that was part-funded by UDC, and that its administration at UDC reaffirms the party’s commitment to more sports provision in Uttlesford.

R4U’s Cllr Rod Jones, Armed Forces Champion at UDC, said “Our administration at UDC is delighted that the new Olympic-standard running track at Carver Barracks is now open to the public. The barracks has long been a part of Uttlesford. As an ex-serviceman, who has served abroad many times, I understand how important it is for strong and solid links to be built for service personnel and their families with others in their home community. We welcome this new sports facility that can be used by sports clubs, schools, and both serving and non-serving residents. It is a great example of regiments and their hosting council working together for the benefit of local communities.”

R4U’s Cllr Alex Armstrong, who is UDC Portfolio Holder for Sport, Leisure and the Arts, added “The new running track has been co-funded by UDC and the MoD. It is important, but is just one facility that is now part of a bigger programme. Many years of underinvestment in local sports by previous UDC administrations left our district below the national guidelines of what is expected. We committed to change that and are delivering. Since being elected, at UDC we’ve also provided grant funding of £400,000 for new sports facilities in Dunmow, Newport, Saffron Walden and Thaxted, which include investment football pitches, multi-use games areas and a skatepark. Our administration is committed to continuing to support community-led sports initiatives and we have some grant funding remaining in this current budget round. I encourage sports clubs, parish and town councils to contact me with proposals.”

About Residents for Uttlesford