Wisbech residents are celebrating the launch of two exciting community spaces—an on-site gym at Olive AP Academy and a sustainable Eco Hub at Wisbech Community Farm—both made possible through £40,000 grants from Cambridgeshire County Council.
The projects are part of a broader investment into community wellbeing, funded by the council’s Communities, Social Mobility and Inclusion Committee. The ribbon-cutting ceremonies drew local dignitaries, funders and partners to mark the occasion.
Councillor Tom Sanderson, committee chair, said: “It’s fantastic to see these two very different projects delivering real change for local people. Both support our vision of a greener, fairer and more caring Cambridgeshire.”
Fitness, Wellbeing, and Sustainability at the Forefront
At Olive AP Academy’s Nene Valley campus, the newly equipped gym is already improving the lives of students and local residents. Designed with inclusivity in mind, the gym provides a safe, welcoming space for underrepresented groups and young people interested in fitness careers.
David Saunders, Head of Academy, said: “This space is a game-changer—for both our pupils and the wider community. It’s already supporting mental and physical wellbeing, as well as opening up new career pathways.”
The gym features high-quality fitness equipment including treadmills, free weights, and boxing gear, with a specialist floor that allows for martial arts and structured classes.
Meanwhile, at Wisbech Community Farm, a new Eco Community Hub now anchors a growing programme of animal-assisted learning, bushcraft, and therapeutic horticulture. Operated by People and Animals UK CIC, the sustainable building includes a green roof and solar panels, cutting emissions while keeping costs low.
Katie Bristow, Director of Operations, hailed the hub as a lifeline: “It future-proofs our work and lets us reach more people—empowering them, reducing isolation, and boosting access to nature-based support.”
With the backing of Cambridgeshire County Council and other funders, these projects mark a powerful step towards a more connected and resilient Wisbech.
