Chennai: Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is planning to create a modern playground on a seven-acre barren ground in Sholinganallur that promises not just the constituency’s first public swimming pool, but also a hub of sports, and community life for the public.This 4-crore project, funded under Ungal Thogadhyil Mudhalvar, is coming up at Gangaiamman Koil Street Extension in division 198, zone 15. For a neighbourhood long overshadowed by IT parks and rapid urban growth, this project will bring accessible and well-planned recreational space for people of all ages.“The land parcel remained unused for a long time. To create a health-conscious culture in the constituency, I proposed this development. After a year, people will not have to approach private pools; they can use the GCC swimming pool. Though access will be affordable, quality and maintenance will not be compromised. Children can also engage in other sports here, while the elderly can take up jogging or walking,” said Aravind Ramesh, MLA, Sholinganallur.GCC has now invited tenders to construct the facility. Volleyball courts, a skating rink, cricket practice nets, a kabaddi ground, a silambam area, a running track, children’s play zones, and an open gym are proposed inside the facility. “But it’s the swimming pool that’s generating the most buzz, as it will be Sholinganallur’s first public pool,” said a GCC official.Additional provisions include greenery development, seating arrangements with benches, electrical work, and safety infrastructure such as CCTV surveillance. Budget has also been allocated for a treatment plant setup and trial runs. “There will be an eight-lane running track,” he added.Residents, too, are hopeful. “We’ve seen parks turn into dumping grounds, and children playing on the roads. So, this facility will be of great use. However, we hope that maintenance will be carried out properly. It should also be provided with proper security,” said S Swaminathan, representative of Confederation of Sholinganallur Constituency Residents Welfare Associations.“It’s exciting to finally have a proper training space, especially with a cricket net and running track coming up. But I hope they also consider adding floodlights, lockers, and a covered area for training during rain. A small indoor space for table tennis or carrom would also help keep youth engaged year-round,” said R Vignesh, a college student and aspiring athlete from Sholinganallur.