Plans to construct a new state-of-the-art sports and community centre in Douglas have been unveiled.
Members of the Dundee East Community Sports Club (DESC) announced plans for a new two-story community facility at Whitton Park, which could provide up to 20 new jobs in the area.
If approved, the sports centre will house changing facilities, a coffee shop, offices, community spaces and a 3G artificial football pitch.
DESC hope that the new facility could have a positive impact on the community by providing a space where people of all ages can gather and take part in sport.
The organisation also hopes that the centre could be utilised as a place where community events, such as employment training and non-sport based activities, could be held.
Peter Ryder, vice-chairman of DECSC, said: “Dundee East Community Sports Club originally started as collaboration between four local football clubs, but over the years has expanded to encompass a number of local sports clubs, youth providers and the community.
“We now have a vital role in promoting and nurturing sporting activities at grass roots level right across the east of Dundee, but can have wider impacts on community issues as well.
“By enhancing our existing facilities we can further engage with community groups and bring genuine benefits to young people in the Douglas area, which as well as being one of the most deprived areas of Scotland, has also shown a desire, through local community consultation to have wider opportunities and facilities on their doorstep.
“Our long-term aim is to utilise our experience and facilities by working closely with communities to support a facility that not just concentrates on football but has the ability to make social change.
“We already have potential funding streams to allow us to work in partnership with local youth providers and have been in wider discussions about local gaps as well, so it is vital that we secure planning permission for the expansion.
“If granted, we would hope to complete the redevelopment, with the new facility built within 18 months.
“At present we have two employees, but it is our intention to create further jobs as part of this project.
“There is no doubt that this is an ambitious vision, but we believe it will create real opportunities for young people in Douglas and surrounding areas and we would urge the city council to back us by supporting our planning application.”
