08 Apr 2024
The long-term future of Abbey View Athletics Track in Verulamium Park should be secured by a new management deal.
Facility owner St Albans district council has agreed a deal with St Albans Athletic Club’s newly-formed charity Abbey View Community Athletics Track (AVCAT).
They are now operating the track with the details of a long-term lease to be determined within the next few months, and seeking to raise funds for track improvements including a new pavilion.
SADC will provide temporary toilets, which are already on site, and an additional container for equipment storage. Changing rooms at nearby Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre are available for track users.
The deal follows the council’s decision to close the pavilion building after it reached the end of its natural life. Constructed more than 50 years ago, the roof is made from Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete panels that have deteriorated and pose a safety risk. The building will be demolished at a later date.
Opened in 1971, the six lane 400 metre track, along with an eight-lane 100 metre section and event area for field sports. was previously managed on the council’s behalf by leisure contractor Everyone Active.
SADC;s strategic director for community and place delivery, Chris Traill, said: “The enforced closure of the Pavilion, combined with the difficult financial climate we are faced with as a council, resulted in some anxiety about what would happen to the track in the long-term.
“We are therefore delighted to have reached this milestone agreement with Abbey View Community Athletics Track which will ensure a bright future for this fabulous facility.
“It means the day-to-day management of the track is now in the hands of local people who have used the track for many years and love the sport of athletics.
“And it means they will be able to raise funds for the future development of the track, an endeavour that we will support as much as we can.
“We are convinced this handover to a community charity is in the best interest of our residents and the sports clubs and schools which use the track.”
Peter Poulain, chair of both Abbey View Community Athletics Track and St Albans Athletic Club, said: “This isn’t what we had expected, but we are excited at the prospect of managing the track as a group of volunteers.
“We cannot thank enough St Albans Striders and the local schools and clubs for their work in the project so far and Everyone Active and Council Officers for their support.
“Replacing a 330 square metre Pavilion building is no small task, so if you feel you can offer help with the design and build of a new pavilion, do contact us.”
