The former Huddersfield YMCA sports complex has been bought from administrators by businessman and Huddersfield Giants owner Ken Davy.
The Salendine Nook complex, which was placed into administration in September 2019, will be handed over – rent free – to the Lindley Borough Community Club (LBCC).
At the same time Huddersfield Giants Community Trust will help further develop the site allowing it to provide “world class sporting facilities” and become a community hub.
A state-of-the-art 4G all-weather pitch will be installed and the long-term aim is for the complex to be the training base for Huddersfield Giants.
Speaking on behalf of the Huddersfield Giants Community Trust, trustee Richard Thewlis said: “This is another magnificent gesture by the Davy family for the benefit of everyone in the area.
“The YMCA complex has for many years, been a focal point for sport and to think it could have fallen by the wayside in an area that is crying out for improved sports facilities, would have been unthinkable.
“The task now is to enhance and improve every aspect of the offering and facilities. The first phase of the development will be a state of the art, 4G all-weather surface suitable for Premiership Rugby Union, Bet Fred Super League Rugby League and football to FA standards, and the fundraising for this has now begun.
“This is a site that deserves the support of all who have sport and the well-being of the community at heart.
“In the longer term if we can move the Giants first team training up there as another anchor tenant alongside the LBCC we will do so, however there are a number of hurdles to overcome before that can become a reality.”
Previously the complex focused on rugby and football but the LBCC plans to widen the range of activities on offer beyond sport. There will be community gardens and such as book clubs and craft groups.
LBCC board member Steve Graley said: “While rugby and football will remain the cornerstones of the complex, we are committed to building the club so that it appeals to many more people.
“From after school clubs to live music events, we have the space and ability to be a central hub for the wider community.
“It will be a welcoming place where people can gather to play, socialise and maybe even try something new. However, we do need to give special thanks to our existing members for their patience and loyalty in recent years, without their support we would not be here today.”
The LBCC Board is made up of volunteers who are long-standing club members and supporters of the complex.
The facilities will be run by the board, who plan to apply for charity status for the LBCC, ensuring it remains viable for the interests of the wider community.
The current gym on site – HD3 Fitness – remains unaffected.
