It has been a short while since our last update, so I wanted to provide some further information about the milestones and timelines we hope to achieve for the ICA Sports Park development.

A 3D image of the land that we propose to develop (highlighted in yellow)

Our last communication mentioned that we are in the midst of our first surveys, looking at the ecological situation at the site. The ICA and ICA Sports are keen to mitigate our impact on the natural habitat so it is important for us to understand the behaviour of any animals that live in and around our proposed development site, in particular the movement of reptiles and amphibians (given our close proximity to a large body of water) and also the activity of bats in the area. The studies conclude in October and the analysis should be ready for review soon after, in November 2018.

The development is planned to consist of (as the very minimum) a full size floodlit artificial 3G football pitch (built to the required FIFA standards), a building with changing facilities (for players and officials) with a reception area / community room and an access road to the site and appropriate pedestrian access between the sports facility and The Fleet Community Centre.

A project of this nature, however, is costly and without the support of the Football Foundation it would not be possible. We had hoped to be in a position to complete our application ready for the January 2019 funding panel, however we are now aiming to be in a position to submit for April 2019.

The total project cost will easily surpass the £1,000,000 mark. The playing surface and ancillary works alone are averaging out across the UK at approximately £750,000 - £800,000.

The ICA have already provided in excess of £125,000 towards the project, all of which has been raised through its member activities over many years of fundraising. This investment has secured the purchase of the 7 acre parcel of land, plus consultation, legal and conveyancing fees. The ICA will contribute a further significant sum in order to ensure the project completes, with the Association recognising the lasting legacy that such a facility can provide for its members and the wider community for many years in a area of high social and economic deprivation. The ICA Sports sub-section have also pledged to raise at least £25,000 towards the development.

The build time for a 3G playing surface is around 14-16 weeks depending on conditions, but it is likely that the clubhouse would be constructed first, to maintain the integrity of - and reduce the likelihood of contamination into - the new 3G carpet. All being well, we hope the development to complete next year in time for the 2019/20 season.

We would like to take the opportunity to thank the ICA and its members; including all of Sports Section's girls, boys, men, women, volunteers, coaches and player parents for their patience and continued support. We can't wait to see the ICA members and the wider community of Fletton and Stanground having use of a wonderful facility in the very near future.

Forza ICA!
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