Cambridge University is now one step closer to first-class sporting facilities after plans for the West Cambridge sports complex were submitted to the City Council last month.

Described previously by the University’s Sports Syndicate as “an ambitious project”, plans for a University sports centre have been circulating since 1995.

Calls for an improvement to the University’s sports facilities received a boost back in June when the university announced that it had approved £16 million of funding for the first phase of the Madingley Road site.

A statement accompanying the planning proposal said that the “sports centre will provide a contemporary environment and much-needed facilities for training, exercise and competition for the 21st century community and visitors.”

Rebecca Brake, who played netball at University level, told Varsity “I think the sports complex is a brilliant investment. So many sports teams struggle to find training and match venues and it costs a lot to go to non-university sites. The new complex will make this much easier and cheaper.”

By 2013 it is hoped that the main indoor sports complex comprising a fitness suite and range of indoor facilities will be completed, with a swimming pool and tennis courts being added at a later date.

Gerard Tully, president of CUSU said “I think this is a great step for University sports provision, and it should offer much-needed services to students.”

As of yet, funding has not been approved for later phases of development but Mr Tully expressed confidence in the project’s long-term success adding, “CUSU has faith that the University will see the project through to absolute completion, but nevertheless will be keeping up the pressure.”

Currently the City Council has received no objections to the ‘reserved matters application’ which will consider the overall appearance and layout of the proposal. A decision is expected to be made by 15th November 2011.