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PLANS for a major upgrade of leisure facilities in Polegate could receive up to £1.2 million in developer funding, with council leaders due to discuss the proposal this week.
Wealden District Council’s cabinet will consider a request from Polegate Town Council for funding towards a comprehensive redevelopment of Brightling Road Recreation Ground on Wednesday, October 7.
The money would come from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), which is collected through charges paid by developers.
The proposed scheme brings together several long-planned projects, including improvements to existing football pitches and sports courts, new lighting, wider paths, a new BMX track, a climbing boulder and an accessible children’s play space.
Plans also include catering, changing and toilet facilities, CCTV and a small car park. The recreation ground’s beginner skate area would be resurfaced, alongside the creation of a new concrete skate park.
A report to cabinet says the improvements would help meet the needs of Polegate’s growing population following significant housing development in the town and surrounding area.
A council spokesman said: “Polegate and the surrounding area has received significant housing growth and development and the new and improved community and sports facilities being proposed at Brightling Road Recreation Ground will provide a wide range of health, wellbeing and social benefits for the growing population.
“It will also ensure residents have access to fit for purpose, high-quality, accessible, local facilities for years to come.
“Without the council’s financial contribution and support, it is unlikely that the proposed improvements can be delivered in full.”
Cabinet members are being asked to endorse the funding proposal, with a final decision to be made by full council at a future meeting.
If approved, Wealden would be expected to enter into a Grant Funding Agreement with Polegate Town Council, which is expected to contribute a further £295,000 towards the project.
The council says work would be expected to begin in December and could be completed before summer 2027.
