PLANS for new indoor and outdoor sports and leisure facilities have taken a major step forward with the formal submission of the planning application for the Sports Hub building in Truro’s Boscawen Park.

Led by Truro City Council and funded by Truro Town Deal, the multi-use building will incorporate new changing facilities, and more space for a wider variety of indoor sports such as badminton, table tennis and basketball, plus an extended and improved boules and pétanque pitch.

The indoor spaces will be suitable for other activities such as conferences, community and family events, workshops and training, or arts and crafts groups.

Some design changes have been implemented to the original concept, due to risks identified around construction cost and technical and environmental challenges. The city council claims these have made the building itself more practical and affordable, with the exterior being more in keeping with existing park structures.

Plans for a new all-weather pitch alongside current grass pitches have been rejected in favour of improvements to park drainage, with the aim of enabling all pitches to be used for longer each year.

“We also recognise the need for all-weather pitches to be provided in Truro and are working with partners to identify potential alternative sites for that provision,” said town clerk David Rodda.

He added: “This is a truly defining stage for the Sports Hub. I urge local people to look at our plans and support the scheme.

“The original design of the building has been amended but the overall aims of the project remain the same - I cannot wait to see local people enjoying their new facilities.

“We are very grateful to Truro Town Deal Board and Cornwall Council for working with us to revise the project and, subject to the outcome of the planning application, look forward to seeing the new Boscawen Sports Hub opening its doors to the local community by March 2026.“

Truro mayor Cllr Carol Swain added: “This is a fantastic project for our city which will provide new and improved sports and leisure facilities for residents and visitors alike.”

View the planning application (number PA24/08479) at www.cornwall.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control/