CONSTRUCTION has officially begun on Sale Sports Club’s new clubhouse.

Work got underway after Mike Kane, MP for Wythenshawe and Sale East, broke ground at a public ceremony on Friday, July 20 at the sports club, off Dane Road, Sale.

The new two-storey community clubhouse, pavilion and indoor tennis centre was granted planning permission in February.

The new clubhouse will deliver Sport England compliant changing facilities that are accessible to all and an exercise studio, as well as providing a first class viewing vista from a bar and function room on the first floor.

It is hoped that the new facilities will allow the club to broaden its appeal and contribute to the health and well-being of local residents by working with local organisations to target those who will benefit from increasing their physical activity rates and reduce social isolation.

Mike Kane said: “It’s great to have the relationship with this club. I’ve seen the plans and they’re world class, it’s going to be so exciting.

“Clubs like this build so much solidarity in communities. Being a member of a club improves people’s health and their outcomes and that’s why this type of development is so important.”

Cllr Jane Baugh was also on hand to hear the club committing to do more for children’s services in the area, as well as increasing activities for all age groups.

The club, founded in 1854, is funding the redevelopment through the sale of surplus land for much needed local housing.

Steve Hodkinson, Chair of the development committee, praised the role of local developer Darren Brown of Lunbro homes and contractors Brierstone.

Mr Hodkinson said: “This project has been a long time in the making, and we owe our thanks to our developer, Darren.

“He has been involved from the start, has been good to his word and great to work with, as have Brierstone”.

Club President Matt Whiteley also praised the enormous contributions made by volunteers who have helped the project reach this important stage.

Construction is expected to be completed by spring 2019.