Residents in Soham are set to benefit from significantly improved community facilities after East Cambridgeshire District Council approved £400,000 of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding towards the redevelopment of the Walter Gidney Pavilion.
The funding will support Phase 2 of the pavilion’s redevelopment, which will see the construction of a new rear hall, kitchen, toilet facilities and secure storage space, transforming the site into a modern, accessible community hub for residents, clubs and organisations across Soham and the surrounding villages.
The approval brings the long-awaited project significantly closer to completion and will help Soham Town Council deliver improved facilities for the town's growing population.
The existing rear hall, kitchen and toilets had become unsafe and unusable and were demolished in January 2024. Since then, the Town Council has worked with Andrew Fleet Architects to develop plans for a replacement facility, which secured planning permission in December 2024.
The overall project is expected to cost around £1.35 million. Soham Town Council has already committed £670,000 from its own reserves and savings, including previous Community Infrastructure Levy receipts generated from development in Soham. The remaining funding will be secured through borrowing from the Public Works Loan Board.
Cllr Charles Warner, Mayor and Chair of Soham Town Council, said: "We are delighted that East Cambridgeshire District Council has recognised the importance of this project and approved this significant funding contribution.
“The Walter Gidney Pavilion sits at the heart of our community and these improvements will create a modern, flexible facility that can be enjoyed by residents of all ages for many years to come.
“This investment will help us meet growing demand for community space while providing high-quality facilities for local groups, sports clubs and organisations."
Cllr Alan Sharp, Chair of East Cambridgeshire District Council’s Finance and Assets Committee, said: "The Community Infrastructure Levy exists to support the infrastructure needed by growing communities, and this project is an excellent example of how those funds can be used to benefit local residents.
“The redevelopment of the Walter Gidney Pavilion will enhance an important community asset and contribute to the creation of sustainable communities in Soham and the surrounding area."
The project has received support from a range of existing and prospective users who highlighted the need for improved community facilities in the town.
Construction is expected to begin following completion of procurement and financing arrangements, with the redeveloped facility anticipated to open in 2027.
Once complete, the new building will provide improved space for community events, meetings, activities and sports-related functions, ensuring the Walter Gidney Pavilion continues to serve as a valuable community asset for future generations.