The £5million Blackbridge Sports Hub will go ahead despite continued objections.

The latest challenge was over the use of public land in Laburnum Road for the development.

The objector said there were already two under performing sports hubs in Gloucester and there was an "inherent risk" that if this one failed the site may be sold off for housing or the taxpayer left to shoulder the burden.

Gloucester's GL1 leisure centre and Oxstalls Sports Park both closed down suddenly last September after the operator went into liquidation but have since reopened under a new interim providor. 

The Blackbridge project has courted controversy throughout its development.

More than 600 residents signed a petition to block the scheme but planning permission was granted by the council in June 2023. 

At the time, Cllr Stephanie Chambers, a cabinet member whose remit covers planning and housing strategy, said the plans would bring "health and wellbeing" to many people.

In July Gloucester City Council agreed the site in Podsmead should be leased to Blackbridge Charitable Community Benefit Society (CCBS) for 125 years at a cost of £1 per annum.

Gloucestershire County Council transferred the land to the City Council on November 22, 2023 for £1.

In a written statement shared at a city council cabinet meeting on January 10 the objector said: "CCBS is a recently formed, small company with no apparent track record of developing or operating a large sports hub facility.

"The city council has publicly stated in July 23 that 'There is the risk that the lease may not complete or the tenant may fail, leaving the Council with the financial responsibility for the maintenance and outgoings of the property'."

The council's report confirmed it would have to take over management of the site or find a new leaseholder if the project failed. But it still recommended the land transfer go ahead.

It said: "The plans have been developed by a passionate group who want to improve local facilities for local people and involve other residents, community groups and sports clubs in the process.

"The Council has supported this approach from the beginning of the project."

The hub will include new youth facilities, learning and social space for all ages as well as sports pitches with a 3G all-weather football pitch, fitness gym, changing rooms and studio space for activities like yoga, pilates and martial arts.

The two-storey building with viewing terrace will also provide space for community and youth events and activities, plus a bar and kitchen providing healthy food options.