Planning chiefs have recommended that proposals for a new community sports hub in East Kilbride be refused, despite five years of effort and £1.6 million in funding secured by the East Kilbride Community Trust. The trust applied in October 2025 to build a two-storey Community Football Spaces Building at its K-Park Training Academy in Calderglen Country Park, featuring changing facilities, a fitness suite, a cafe, function rooms, and meeting rooms.
Support from Local MP
Local MP Joani Reid wrote to South Lanarkshire Council in support of the plans, stating that the trust 'plays a vital role in supporting young people, adults, and community groups' and that the project 'represents a major opportunity to enhance community facilities and promote health, well-being, and inclusion across East Kilbride.' However, planning officers have expressed concerns about the proposal's suitability for the location.
Planning Officers' Concerns
A report by Kevin Carr, the council's executive director of community and enterprise resources, highlights several issues. The development does not align with the Calderglen Country Park Masterplan, which was approved in October 2025. The building, at 15.6 metres high with a large canopy, is described as 'visually dominant and overly obtrusive in this country park setting.' Additionally, the proposal would generate significant additional traffic without sufficient parking provision.
The development requires 103 parking spaces but can only provide 67 within its boundary. The trust suggested using nearby Colonsay Field to make up the shortfall, but planning officers noted that this land is not under the trust's control and the walking routes are poorly lit. Bus stops near the park entrance are not served by any bus routes, meaning almost all visitors would need to drive.
Public Objections
Fifteen letters of objection were received from local residents, raising concerns about traffic, parking, wildlife impact, and the character of the park. The planning committee is set to make a final decision on June 9.
