A running track and sports field has reopened following a £180,000 upgrade.

The Abbey View Athletics Track in Verulamium Park, St Albans is back in action with a resurfaced running area and better-quality facilities since closing down for improvement in August last year.

The running tracks have been raised to “championship standard” after a new synthetic material was laid – and an area for field sports including the high jump and pole vault has also been installed.

The venue is owned by St Albans City and District Council and managed on its behalf by leisure firm 1Life.

Councillor Annie Brewster, portfolio holder for sport and culture, said: “I’m very impressed with the work that has been done and delighted that the track is now open for business. The surface is top class, it has a spring to it and is textured to prevent slipping.

“This is an important venue in the very heart of the city, used by competitive athletes and fun runners alike. I’m sure they will all appreciate the new state-of-the-art surface.”

The cost of the resurfacing was £186,000 with most of the money coming from contributions to the council by property developers for community infrastructure.

Lynne Milner, chairman and founder of St Albans Athletic Club, praised the improvements, adding: “We’re looking forward to the forthcoming athletic season.”

https://www.1life.co.uk/Abbey-View-Golf-and-Track-Facility/