A developer behind the Cranbrook expansion has made a donation to the Town Council to improve sporting facilities in the area.

As part of the Community Champions scheme, Persimmon Homes South West has contributed £1,500 that will be used to provide new equipment and expand access to sports around the town.

Prior to the building of the sports pavilion, several hundred children were using the pitches each week.

However, to adapt the facilities for adult and league use, the addition of new sports equipment has become necessary.

The donation has followed the signing of the Section 106 agreement between Persimmon and the District Council.

The developer secured planning permission for the first Cranbrook expansion, which led to more than £4m funding for numerous projects.

These include a new health and wellbeing centre, leisure centre, fire station, and improvements to London Road for better pedestrian and cyclist safety.

The expansion will allow for the construction of up to 1,435 quality homes, a three-form entry primary school, a school catering to special educational needs, a neighbourhood centre, and land for a spiritual hub.

Other facilities include a vicarage, a cemetery, play areas, allotments, and substantial green spaces around the development.

Midweek Herald:

Persimmon Homes South West’s sales director Stacey Harris said: "Given our significant footprint in Cranbrook, it is only right that as part of our commitment to leaving a positive and lasting legacy in the areas in which we develop that we work with local groups and representatives to ensure the town is a wonderful place to live.

"That’s why, in addition to providing high-quality homes and community infrastructure, Persimmon is proud to be donating money to Cranbrook Town Council so they can deliver equipment for local people to play sport in this beautiful part of Devon.

"We hope that this will be of benefit to our customers – present and future – at our Galileo and Cherrywood Grange sites, as well as those who will take their place in the town as part of the expansion we recently received permission to build."

Expressing gratitude for the donation, councillor Les Bayliss, chairman of Cranbrook Town Council, said: "We're grateful to Persimmon for their support in this project, which aims to broaden access to sports in Cranbrook.

"We believe that providing our residents with access to sports venues and green areas will promote an active lifestyle and contribute to maintaining good health.

"Cranbrook Town Council has made significant investments in restoring and maintaining these facilities and services to a very high standard.

"Our top-notch sports pavilion, not only offers young players the opportunity to explore sports and develop their skills but also hosts league games at a high level."