18 Jan 2012
New multi-sports facility opens in Bexley
BY Pete Hayman
The London Borough of Bexley has announced the opening of the new Europa Centre in south east London, which is to be used as a London 2012 Games Time Training Venue.
Olympic and Paralympic volleyball teams will use the new 3,460sq m (37,243sq ft) multi-sports facility, which has been designed by Formation Architects and Whitecode Designs.
ISG Construction and Stace were also involved with the scheme, which will also provide a new home for Europa Gym Club, Europa Weightlifting Club and Nemesis Boxing Club.
It replaces the clubs' existing base at leased premises in Erith and comprises a 36m x 43m gymnastic hall; a weightlifting and fitness studio; and physiotherapy and treatment rooms.
A mezzanine floor offers a multi-use space for functions, dance and martial arts, as well as a boxing studio. The London Borough of Bexley was the accountable body for the project.
Barratt Homes contributed land and funding through a Section 106 agreement for the new Europa Centre. Sport England and the Olympic Delivery Authority also backed the scheme.
Other partners included the mayor of London, through the £15.5m Sports Legacy Fund; the Amateur Boxing Association of England; British Gymnastics; and Cory Environmental Trust in Britain.
Council leader Teresa O'Neill said: "This project has secured a future for this important community sports club as well as being chosen as a London 2012 Games Time Training Venue for the Olympic and Paralympic volleyball teams."
Details: www.europagymcentre.com
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