Grand Opening Ceremony for New £8 Million Sports Complex in St Saviour’s Celebrated with Community Festivities

new £8 million Sports Centre Set to Open in Jersey

St. Saviour, Jersey – A significant boost to local sporting infrastructure is on the horizon as the Oakfield Sports Centre prepares to open its doors this Thursday. The £8 million facility represents a key investment in the community’s health and well-being, providing a modern space for athletes and residents alike.

Official Opening and Key Attendees

Jersey’s chief minister, Deputy Lyndon Farnham, will officially inaugurate the Oakfield Sports Centre during a ceremony on Thursday. He will be joined by Minister for Infrastructure Andy Jehan and Jersey Sport chief executive David Kennedy, signalling the government’s commitment to the project.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

The new centre boasts an impressive array of features designed to cater to a wide range of sporting activities. Three multi-sport arenas will provide flexible space for various games, while a dedicated 3G pitch will be ideal for football and other field sports. Martial arts enthusiasts will benefit from purpose-built studios,and gymnasts will have access to a specialized gymnastics hall.

Transition from Fort Regent

The opening of the Oakfield Sports Centre comes after the closure of the Fort Regent centre.Active, the association managing the new facility, will ensure a smooth transition, hosting many of the sporting programs previously offered at Fort Regent. This continuity of service is crucial for maintaining participation rates and supporting local sports clubs. According to Sport England, participation in sports and physical activity has a positive correlation with overall wellbeing and reduced healthcare costs. Sport England consistently highlights the importance of accessible facilities.

Construction Timeline and community Involvement

Construction on the Oakfield Sports Centre began in August 2024. Throughout the building process, sports groups, including Jersey Cricket and the Jersey Netball Association, were invited to view the progress and provide input. This collaborative approach ensured that the centre’s design met the needs of the sporting community.

Accessibility and Community Focus

The facility is designed to be accessible to all,with shared use arrangements for local schools,including Highlands College and Hautlieu School,and junior clubs. Outside of school hours, members and groups can utilize the arenas, pitch, and studios. Sports clubs and associations will also have the option to hire the facilities for training and competitions.

The government envisions the Oakfield Sports Centre as a central hub for the community. It aims to be part of a broader network of sports facilities across Jersey, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle for all residents.

Feature	Description
Total Cost	£8 Million
Arenas	Three Multi-Sport Arenas
Pitch	3G Artificial Turf
Specialized Facilities	Martial Arts Studios & Gymnastics Hall

The growing Importance of Community Sports Facilities

Investment in community sports facilities is increasingly recognized as a vital component of public health strategy. Beyond the physical benefits of exercise, participation in sports fosters social connections, reduces stress, and improves mental well-being. Modern facilities, like the Oakfield Sports Centre, are designed to be inclusive, catering to diverse needs and abilities.The trend towards multi-sport arenas allows for greater flexibility and cost-effectiveness, maximizing the use of available space.

did You Know? A recent study by the Sport & Recreation Alliance found that individuals who regularly participate in sports are 21% more likely to report good mental health.

Pro Tip: Check with your local council or sports organizations to find out about upcoming events and programs at the Oakfield Sports Centre and other facilities in Jersey.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Oakfield Sports Centre

• What sports can be played at the Oakfield Sports Centre? The centre will host a variety of sports including basketball, netball, cricket, martial arts, and gymnastics.
• Is the Oakfield Sports Centre open to the public? Yes, the facilities can be used by members of the public, sports clubs, and local schools.
• how does the Oakfield Sports Centre relate to the closure of Fort Regent? It will host many of the activities previously held at Fort Regent,ensuring continuity of service.
• When did construction of the Sports Centre begin? Construction began in August 2024.
• Who is managing the Oakfield Sports Centre? The facility is run by Active.
• What is the government’s vision for the centre? The government hopes the centre will be “community-focused” and a key part of a network of sports facilities across Jersey.

What are your thoughts on the new sports facility? Do you think it will be a positive addition to the community?

Share this article and let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

What specific benefits does the new sports complex aim to provide for Jersey’s athletic development?

A New Hub for Jersey Sport & Wellbeing

The newly constructed £8 million sports complex in St Saviour,Jersey,officially opened it’s doors on October 23rd,2025,with a vibrant grand opening ceremony and a day of community festivities. The event marked the culmination of years of planning and construction,delivering a state-of-the-art facility designed to boost participation in sport and enhance wellbeing across the island. The complex represents a important investment in Jersey’s sporting infrastructure and promises to be a focal point for athletic development and community engagement.

Facility Highlights: What the Complex offers

The new sports complex boasts a comprehensive range of facilities catering to diverse sporting needs and fitness levels. Key features include:

* Indoor Sports Hall: A large, multi-purpose hall suitable for badminton, basketball, netball, volleyball, and indoor football. This adaptable space can also host large-scale events and exhibitions.

* Gymnasium: A fully equipped gym featuring the latest cardio and strength training equipment, catering to both individual workouts and group fitness classes. Personal training services will also be available.

* dedicated Fitness studios: Specialized studios for activities like yoga, Pilates, and spin classes, providing a dedicated space for focused fitness regimes.

* Outdoor Sports Pitches: Including a full-size artificial grass pitch suitable for football and rugby, alongside smaller multi-use games areas.

* Changing Rooms & Amenities: Modern and accessible changing facilities, including dedicated provisions for disability access, ensuring inclusivity for all users.

* Café & Social Space: A welcoming café area providing refreshments and a social hub for visitors and participants.

Community Involvement & Opening Day Activities

The grand opening wasn’t just a ribbon-cutting ceremony; it was a full-scale community celebration. The day’s events were designed to showcase the complex’s facilities and encourage participation from all age groups. activities included:

1. Sporting Demonstrations: Local sports clubs and organizations provided demonstrations of various sports, offering taster sessions and showcasing their activities.
2. Family Fun Zone: A dedicated area with inflatable games, face painting, and other activities to entertain children and families.
3. Fitness Classes: Free introductory fitness classes were offered throughout the day, allowing visitors to sample the range of programs available.
4. Live music & Entertainment: Local musicians and performers provided live entertainment,creating a festive atmosphere.
5. Meet the Athletes: Opportunities to meet and interact with Jersey’s top athletes, inspiring the next generation of sporting talent.

The Economic & Social Impact of the New Complex

The £8 million investment in the St Saviour’s sports complex is expected to yield significant economic and social benefits for Jersey.

* Increased sports Participation: The modern facilities are anticipated to encourage greater participation in sport and physical activity, contributing to improved public health outcomes.

* Boost for Local Sports Clubs: The complex provides a much-needed venue for local sports clubs to train, compete, and host events, supporting their growth and development.

* Tourism Potential: The facility could attract sporting events and training camps to Jersey, boosting the island’s tourism sector.

* Job Creation: The construction phase created employment opportunities,and the ongoing operation of the complex will generate further jobs in areas such as fitness instruction,facility management,and hospitality.

* Community Cohesion: The complex serves as a central hub for community activity, fostering social interaction and strengthening community bonds.

Funding & development Process

The project was funded through a combination of public and private investment. The States of Jersey provided the majority of the funding, with additional contributions from local businesses and charitable organizations. The development process involved extensive consultation with local residents and sports organizations to ensure the complex met the needs of the community. Planning permission was granted in 2023, and construction commenced shortly thereafter, with the project completed on schedule and within budget. The project team prioritized sustainable building practices, incorporating energy-efficient technologies and environmentally pleasant materials into the design.

Accessibility & Inclusivity Features

A key priority during the design and construction phase was ensuring the complex is accessible and inclusive for all members of the community. Features include:

* Wheelchair Accessibility: Ramps, lifts, and accessible restrooms throughout the facility.

* Inclusive Changing Facilities: Dedicated changing rooms with appropriate equipment for individuals with disabilities.

* Sensory Considerations: Quiet spaces and sensory-friendly environments for individuals with autism or other sensory sensitivities.

* Adapted Sports Programs: Plans to offer adapted sports programs and activities for individuals with disabilities.

* Signage & Wayfinding: Clear and concise signage throughout the complex, including tactile maps and audio descriptions.

Future Plans & Expansion Opportunities

Looking ahead, there are plans to further develop the sports complex and expand its offerings. Potential future developments include:

* Outdoor Swimming pool: Consideration is being given to adding an outdoor swimming pool to the complex.

* Sports Science Laboratory: A dedicated sports science laboratory to support athlete performance and research.

* Expanded Car Parking: Increasing car parking capacity to accommodate growing visitor numbers.

* Partnerships with Educational Institutions: Collaborating with local schools and colleges to provide sports and fitness programs for students.

* Community Gardens: Creating community gardens to promote healthy eating and sustainable living.