Work is progressing on transforming Derby Racecourse into a vibrant community space with the development of the Football Hub. The Hub will host a community building with three new outside full-size 3G football turf pitches (FTPs) and refurbishment of the existing FTP.
The benefits of the Football Hub extend beyond sports facilities and Derby Racecourse will be much more than just a place to play sports. The vision is to bring life into the park offering a wide range of activities for everyone in the community to enjoy.
The Derby Racecourse transformation involves the revitalisation of play areas and the outdoor gym, which will include accessible equipment. A new basketball court suitable for 3×3 player games will be installed and the trim trail has already been revamped to offer a more engaging recreational experience.
Plans have been submitted for approval for the extension of pathways around the Racecourse Park, ensuring improved accessibility, and the addition of new benches. The project also includes an increase in parking spaces to accommodate visitors more comfortably. Furthermore, a community café with a Changing Places WC will be provided to enhance the overall experience for all park visitors.
Derby Racecourse, which is located in the northern part of the city has traditionally been a focal point for football activities. However, these activities have resulted in extensive areas of closely mowed grass with relatively low biodiversity. The Racecourse Football Hub project is committed to improving the park’s biodiversity.
To achieve this, the project aims to plant new trees along access routes and in unused areas to provide more diversity to the park. Careful consideration will be given to choosing tree varieties that can resist diseases and adapt to changing climates. Additionally, the project plans to create wildflower areas to add variety to the closely maintained pitches and attract essential pollinators to the park.
The transformation of Derby Racecourse and the development of the Football Hub project have been made possible through collaboration between Derby City Council and financial support from the Premier League, The FA, and the Government’s Football Foundation. After completion in early 2024, the facilities will be leased to the National Football Trust and operated on their behalf by Leisure United.
The transformation promises a positive impact, providing an inviting and dynamic space for all to enjoy while enhancing recreational opportunities and biodiversity in the city.
Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for City Centre Regeneration, Culture and Tourism, said: “Derby Racecourse is evolving into a vibrant community space with the Football Hub project. The transformation promises a positive impact, offering an inviting and dynamic space for all.
“While it’s already a well-used community space for football, the Football Hub project will elevate it beyond just a muddy field. It ensures year-round use, proper facilities, and increased biodiversity, enriching our city’s recreational opportunities.”
