Boat club reveals major expansion plans

A WATERSPORTS club which is bursting at the seams is hoping to have more room to enjoy in future after outlining ambitious expansion plans.
The ambitious plans at Manvers Boat ClubThe ambitious plans at Manvers Boat Club
The ambitious plans at Manvers Boat Club
 

Manvers Waterfront Boat Club already has almost 2,000 members taking part in sport on Manvers Lake.

Now the club is hoping to attract and accommodate even more and has applied to Rotherham Council for permission to add a £300,000 extension to its boathouse.

The plans drawn up by Manvers Lake Trust — which would make more room for canoes, kayaks, dragon boats, paddleboards and windsurfers — also include converting space above the boat store into a club room and more storage and installing a lift, staircase and balcony.

Club president Chris Hawkesworth said: “We are really pleased to feel able to add additional space for both our members and the public.

 

“We operate 365 days a year, dawn till dusk and beyond.  

“Our members range from Olympic aspirants to beginners, and under our Team Manvers banner we compete in land and water events all over the world.  

“However, our home base needs to be equipped to the latest modern standards for coaching, training, practice and casual participation.”

Chris, who is also chair of trustees, said the club was also a training centre for emergency services members and for martial artists and worked with Dearne Valley College to give more youngsters access to sports facilities.

“I see this as a win-win for the area and vindication of the 1990s policy of regeneration of the former mine and railway workings of Manvers Main and Wath Coking works that used to occupy the site,” he said.

“I am extremely proud of what we are achieving.”