'LET’S get on and build it!’ That was the rallying call from Winchester’s deputy leader as the framework for the city’s planned sports and leisure park was signed off.

Cllr Rob Humby gave an impassioned speech at last week’s cabinet defending the plans for the facilities in Bar End, as the scheme passed a key phase.

As a result, a planning application is set to be submitted in the coming days for the new £38million centre.

However, councillors did not have it all their own way, with several members of the public criticising the vision.

Among them was Winchester Sport, Art and Leisure Trust (Salt) chief executive Emma Back, who said: “It has become clear that the council doesn’t really understand Winchester’s community sport sector despite our efforts, which may help explain the lack of interest in collaborating with us.

“We’ve consistently asked to work with you, to partner with you. Why? Not to annoy you by popping up in front of you for three minutes, not to ‘catch you out’ when things go wrong... We are here because we care. Because we think the children and young people of this city and district deserve more.”

Ms Back added that there was “no reassurance that our sport sector will be any better off when the doors open”.

Cllr Humby countered: “I have to say I’m really disappointed... Please, Emma, don’t say the council doesn’t care about sports, because that is simply not true. We have had detailed conversations and we need to get on and build it.

“We cannot provide everything for everybody – we are doing our best. I urge all of you to get on board. Let’s get on and deliver this facility for all the residents.”

Concerns were also raised about the sports hall by opposition councillor Brian Laming, who said: “Sporting groups have complained about the glass wall and the fact that rebound screens have to be used.

“Winchester needs the best facilities we can afford in this centre and they should not be reduced for the sake of what it looks like... It must be a centre for all and not a glamour house of glass.”

As the scheme progressed, a number of cabinet members praised the handling of the project to date, including Cllr Stephen Godfrey, who said: “The level of consultation on this contentious issue has been a marvel.”

Council leader Caroline Horrill added: “It’s clear the Winchester district is in need of an outstanding leisure facility. We are certainly keen to ensure this facility is the best it can possibly be and meet the majority of demands.”

The next steps will see a building contractor appointed.

and the search for the operator get under way, while approval of a full business case will be sought early next year.