The Camborne and Redruth Amateur Boxing Club, Cornwall's oldest boxing institution, is embarking on an ambitious project to build a new, purpose-built facility. This initiative aims to replace the club's current 1940s pre-fabricated building, which no longer meets modern standards, with a vibrant, sustainable structure that will serve the community for decades to come.

A New Home for Boxing

Coach Paul Murray emphasized the importance of this project, stating, "We need to make sure we keep going - not just for the youth of Camborne but for the history of boxing in Cornwall." The new facility, set to be completed by 2028, will feature a two-storey gym with a boxing ring, spectator seating, community space, and a café. These additions will not only enhance training but also allow the club to host competitions and generate additional revenue.

Impact on Youth

The club's current location on an industrial estate in Camborne has been its home for over 60 years. However, the outdated changing rooms and facilities have prompted the need for an upgrade. "Our facilities are not up to the modern standards our governing body expects," Murray explained. "It's now time for us to replace the building with a modern, vibrant building that will be sustainable."

Young members like Josh, 14, and Kyros, 15, are excited about the new gym. Josh believes that a better facility will help aspiring boxers improve their skills, while Kyros credits the club with helping him manage his mental health and stay out of trouble. "It helps me mentally and if I have any anger during school it helps me get it out," he said.

Encouraging Female Participation

Tegan, 16, from Redruth, hopes the new building will attract more girls to the club. "The new building would give us female changing rooms, female toilets. I think it would be great to have more facilities to train and progress," she explained.

Securing the Future

The club has submitted its proposals to Cornwall Council and is seeking around £750,000 in funding. Murray has also engaged with the Department of Culture, Media, and Sport to access government grants. "Having a more modern club will bring in more children, more young adults and give them more things to do - to keep them off the street, to get them out of trouble, to stop being on their iPads and computer games," he said.

This new facility promises to be a source of pride for the youth of Camborne and the surrounding area, ensuring that the legacy of boxing in Cornwall continues to thrive.