A ceremony has taken place to mark the start of work on a new future for Sittingbourne Rugby Club in Kent, with a two-storey clubhouse, improved sports facilities and state-of-the-art pitches on the way.
The year-long build programme should see the club play their first games in 2025, and the facilities will also be available for use by the local community.
Kevin McKenna, MP for Sittingbourne and Sheppey, joined a delegation from Sittingbourne Rugby Club, Borden Parish Council and Quinn Estates at the club’s new home in Wises Lane, Borden on Friday 11 October for the traditional start to the build.
The project will deliver six changing rooms and physiotherapy space, plus a social area with a bar and kitchen that opens out onto a balcony overlooking two new state-of-the-art pitches.
The two rugby pitches will meet both Sports England and Rugby Football Union standards, allowing the club to build upon the success and growth of its junior teams.
It also provides the club with a permanent base for the first time, having previously shared the home of Gore Court Cricket Club.
Club president Roger Down said: “This is a truly defining moment for the club and for the local community. It’s been a long wait to get to this point, and we’re grateful to Quinn Estates for the support it has shown in supporting our dream of securing a new permanent home.
“This is the start of an exciting new chapter for us and for the local community too. They will have the use of both clubhouse and pitches, including being able to come and support our home games. We can’t wait to welcome them along.”
Ben Geering, planning director at Quinn Estates, added: “We’re delighted to be starting work on a new permanent home for Sittingbourne Rugby Club. It is part of our commitment to a development that not only delivers high-quality homes but goes the extra mile in providing wider benefits for the community.
“Exciting projects like this involve a huge number of people, and on behalf of the club and Quinn Estates, we are especially thankful to Stuart Mair from The William Barrow’s Charity, Barratts PLC and Robert Hinge and James Mair from A.Hinge & Sons for funding contributions.
“Quinn Estates have established themselves as the most proactive mixed-use developer in the South East, focused on delivering jobs, homes, game-changing infrastructure and exceptional community gains.
“Our mission is to leave a positive legacy, including facilities that can make a lasting difference.”
