Sports venue upgrade takes major leap forward

A Cheshire-based sports venue is set to expand its facilities and enhance community activity.

The Cumberland Arena, in Crewe, is moving closer to completion after the steel frame for a new two-storey building was installed. 

Serving Crewe and Nantwich Athletics Club, local running clubs and multiple football teams who train or play on the 3G artificial pitch, the arena is a hub for sport and community activity.

The upgraded facility will feature three multi-functional studios operating seven days a week, hosting dance, Pilates, yoga, and community and educational programmes, alongside a balcony with covered spectator seating and a modern reception area.

Additional improvements will provide extra parking spaces, EV charging points, improved access for pedestrians and cyclists and new bike shelters. 

The redevelopment is being led by Cheshire East Council in partnership with Everybody Health and Leisure, supported by the Government’s Towns Fund allocation for Crewe.

Tony Davison, chair of Crewe Town Board, said: “The upgrade of Crewe’s

Cumberland Arena is going to be hugely beneficial to so many people and clubs in the town and I am delighted that we have managed to utilise the government’s Town Fund allocation for this work.

“I’m very excited to see how this very inclusive facility is going to be received when it opens next spring.”

Salford-based MC Construction is the main contractor, working alongside building surveyor David Trowler Associates, structural engineer ABA Consulting and mechanical and electrical engineer Crookes Walker Consulting.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the building will feature LED lighting, solar panels, air source heat pumps and an external living wall. 

Russ Forshaw, managing director of MC Construction, said: “Working once again alongside our longstanding client Cheshire East Council, we are proud to be the main contractor to carry out this important upgrade to Cumberland Arena.

“The project will deliver greatly improved facilities for the area and aims to inspire more people to take up physical activity, in line with the council’s commitment to providing enhanced health and wellbeing opportunities.

“Alongside this, the design will support the council’s aims to become carbon neutral, with a number of significant environmental features.

“We look forward to delivering the scheme next spring and seeing the new facilities becoming a popular addition to the Cumberland Arena.”

The next stages of construction include concrete flooring, brickwork and cladding, with completion expected by spring 2026.

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