A campaign to raise money for Islington Boxing Club has been launched to replace its ramshackle building.
The club located on Hazellville Road, has served local residents for decades and currently operates from portable cabins that were built in the 70’s and were only meant to be temporary.
These distinctive red portable cabins have become a familiar landmark in the area, but club leaders say that the building is no longer fit for purpose.
Club manager Reggie Hagland said:
“The site was never intended to be permanent. It was used for workers that were building the Elthorne Estate across the road back in the 70s. They offered the site to us, and ever since then it’s been our home.”
The club has built a strong reputation within the borough, providing training opportunities for amateur boxers and people looking to improve their fitness and confidence. Hagland emphasised that the club’s impact extends beyond competitive sport.
“It’s not just about people who want to become champions,” said Hagland. “Someone might come in to lose a bit of weight, gain self-confidence or improve their wellbeing.”
The proposed redevelopment would create a multi-purpose facility designed to expand the club’s community work. Alongside a new boxing gym, plans include classrooms, a multi-purpose gym and areas that could host a range of community events.
“We want it to be a multi-purpose building,” Hagland said. “Somewhere that can serve the community in other aspects as well.”
To help make the project a reality, the club has launched a public fundraising campaign, encouraging supporters and residents to contribute towards the cost of the new building and help secure the future of one of Islington’s longest-running grassroots sports clubs.
To donate go to: www.justgiving.com/campaign/newbuildislington
