By Harry Ward
Construction has started on a long-awaited £9.6 million sports hub at Woodhall Playing Fields in Calverley.
Leeds City Council said the development will include three full-size third-generation artificial pitches and one natural grass pitch to help meet demand for playing space in the area. The hub will also feature a pavilion with café and meeting facilities, play areas, parking and a Changing Places toilet.
Landscaping and biodiversity work will form part of the scheme, with plans for new trees, wildflowers and improved walking routes through the site.
The council said the project is being delivered in partnership with the Football Foundation and has been part-funded by one of the ‘largest grants awarded’ through the Premier League, The FA and the government’s Football Foundation. Additional funding is coming from the council, developer contributions and through the private sector.
Once open, the hub will be managed by the National Football Trust and operated by Leisure United, with any surplus income reinvested into outdoor sports facilities elsewhere in Leeds.
Councillor Salma Arif, executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said the start of work marked ‘a big milestone’ in efforts to give residents of all ages access to quality sports facilities.
The Woodhall development has been in planning for several years under the national Parklife programme, which aims to improve community football facilities across England.
The plans were first proposed in late 2019, being approved by the council in 2023. Work was originally expected to begin in spring 2024 before being delayed.
Construction is now expected to continue into next year, with completion scheduled ahead of the 2026/27 playing season. A second hub at Temple Newsam is due to follow in 2026 under the same partnership model.
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