Cambridge United Open New £3.5m Training Facility
After many years of planning and a six month build schedule, today saw Cambridge United’s First Team and Under 18 players and staff move into the new training facility on Bentley Road.
Equipped with changing and physio rooms, a gym, catering kitchen and dining area, office suites and a 30-seat analysis theatre, the building replaces old portacabins to create a professional environment, suitable for the development of the players at elite level within the club.
Built by principle contractor, Modulek Ltd, in conjunction with local construction companies and club partners CB Groundworks and Regent Construction, the building is targeted at BREEAM Excellent standards for sustainability and includes a sedum roof, solar PV, ASHP hot water, heat recovery ventilation, optimum U-values, rainwater harvesting and sustainable timber cladding, providing the highest levels of sustainability for the future of the club and the local environment, with extensive wild flower seeding to the surrounding area and bird/bat boxes for increased migratory species habitat.
Speaking of the opening, Cambridge United CEO, Alex Tunbridge, stated: “Today marks an important step forward for the club. Creating training facilities fit for purpose at this level of the professional game which can help attract, retain and develop players and staff for the future is fundamental for us becoming a sustainable League One club.
“There have been many challenges to overcome with the project which started several years ago and through a collective team effort by all of our stakeholders involved in the project, we have achieved our goal of creating an inspiring environment for current and future generations.
“I am sure I speak for all fans, and everyone associated with the club in thanking our owners for their investment, passion and vision to push the club forward. The building is a shining example of how we are looking to modernise and develop Cambridge United as a professional football club at every level which is United in Endeavour.”
Sales Director Brian Pester, at Modulek commented: “It has been a real privilege to undertake this build for the club. Modular construction is such a great construction method for football clubs.
“Manufacturing off-site results in minimal disruption to the day-to-day operations at the training ground as the building is installed and finished in a much shorter timeframe.
“This building not only provides facilities for players to perform at their best, but it will also deliver performance in terms of energy efficiency.
“We have enjoyed working together on the project, are grateful for the opportunity and wish Cambridge United every success for the future.”
Image: cambridgeunited.com
