The University has announced plans to invest £40m for a new sports facility on University Park.

The new development is part of the University’s ambitious plans to significantly increase participation in sports and physical activity at all levels – from encouraging students and staff to experience a wide range of new sports to the enhancement of elite performance at a national and international level.

In keeping with the University’s green credentials, the new complex will incorporate parts of the existing sports centre, whilst adding an array of modern facilities, including:

• a new fully adaptable 20-court sports hall
• a 200 station fitness suite
• sports science facilities
• a climbing wall
• an indoor sprint track
• strength and conditioning facility
• an archery and fencing hall
• dance studios
• a snooker hall
• a martial arts dojo.

Squash provision will also be significantly enhanced via a purpose built squash hub, featuring a full glass show court and six further glass backed courts, viewing galleries and spectator seating.

Dan Tilley, Director of Sport at the University said: “The investment is part of our ambition to create an outstanding, inspirational and accessible sports infrastructure for students, staff and the wider community. We want to encourage people of all abilities to get involved in sport and activity, and allow them to rub shoulders with and train alongside some of the country’s leading athletes”.

The new facility will be named the David Ross Sports Village and is supported by a very significant commitment from Nottingham Law alumnus and Carphone Warehouse founder David Ross.  The donation will be the biggest single gift the University has received from one of its graduates.

We’re now working to raise £3 million to make the most of this exciting new development by providing facilities, coaching and scholarships. Find out how you can help.

Construction phase facilities

Construction of the new complex is due to start in February 2015 and completion is expected in June 2016. To minimise disruption to current sports members, a temporary facility will be constructed in the area adjacent to the fitness centre and Nightingale hall prior to the closure of the existing sports centre.