Plans for the Wichelstowe Community Sports Hub submitted following strong local support
Plans for a brand-new community sports hub at Swindon’s flagship Wichelstowe housing development have taken a major step forward, with proposals now formally submitted to Swindon Borough Council’s Planning Department.
The new Wichelstowe Community Sports Hub will be located between Middle and East Wichel, offering facilities for multiple sports, play areas, and community activities. The scheme follows two public consultation phases earlier this year, during which hundreds of residents provided valuable feedback that helped shape the final design.
The Wiltshire FA has been identified as the preferred operator for the site, bringing its experience and expertise in grassroots sport to help oversee the facility once complete.
The hub will be funded through Section 106 contributions from the Wichelstowe developers, with additional grant funding expected to further expand the facilities on offer.
The development will include:
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Multi-use games areas (MUGAs) and children’s play zones
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A pavilion featuring a café, flexible community rooms, and changing facilities
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A pétanque area, added following public feedback
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Extensive landscaped walking and cycling routes connecting to Wichelstowe’s canals and green spaces
The site is designed to encourage active lifestyles across all ages and abilities — whether through competitive sport or more relaxed exercise such as walking, cycling, or running.
Councillor Kevin Small, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance, said:
“I’m really pleased to see the plans for the new sports hub at Wichelstowe moving forward as this will benefit both local residents and the wider community.
The knowledge and expertise of the Wiltshire FA has been invaluable in getting us to this stage, and I’m delighted that they will once again have a base in Swindon. This will be a real boost for grassroots football and for sport more generally in the borough.”
He also praised the role of Wroughton Parish Council, which has worked closely with the Borough Council to shape the project.
Subject to planning approval, construction could begin in 2026, bringing with it a significant new sporting and social hub for the town.
Simon Russell, CEO of the Wiltshire FA, added:
“This is an important milestone as we move closer to delivering an exceptional new facility for people in Swindon and beyond.
We’re excited about having a permanent presence in the borough to support the thousands of players and volunteers involved in football.”
