A new all-weather Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) has officially opened on the Undercliff at Rottingdean, East Sussex, providing a vibrant new recreational space for the local community. The facility features a versatile sports court designed for five-a-side football, basketball and cricket, alongside two mini Brazilian-style football pitches tailored for younger children.
The development sits on the site of the former open-air swimming pool, which was decommissioned approximately 25 years ago. The new facility, named Connor’s Court, honours the memory of local teenager Connor Saunders, who tragically lost his life in 2012 at the age of 19. The idea for the games area was put forward by Connor’s friends to the Play Area in Rottingdean Committee (PARC), as a lasting tribute at a location where they had spent time playing football together.
PARC, a dedicated local charity focused on improving play facilities for children and young people, led the fundraising efforts for the project. Through the operation of their charity shops at the end of Rottingdean High Street and ongoing community initiatives, PARC continues to support similar projects aimed at enhancing local amenities.
Connor’s Court opened to the public in September and has already been warmly welcomed by the community, with an official opening event planned for the spring ahead of the summer season. Reflecting Connor’s passion for Chelsea Football Club, the court is finished in blue and yellow, representing the club’s home and away colours.
Located in a challenging coastal environment adjacent to the beach, the design and material selection were carefully considered to ensure durability and longevity. High-performance finishes and robust construction methods have been used to withstand the exposed conditions.
MacConvilles provided Building Surveying services for the project, developing the initial concept through to securing planning permission. A detailed specification was then prepared, forming the basis for effective project delivery and on-site management.
Structural Renovations acted as main contractor, preparing the base and installing the specialist play surface. Russell Play supplied the ball court system, constructed using MarineGalv steel with a high-quality polyester powder-coated finish, typically specified for use in demanding environments such as North Sea oil installations.
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