There is an urgent need for the development of an astro pitch (artificial turf football facility) within our community. The proposed pitch would serve as a shared resource for local football teams, schools, and residents, ensuring access to safe, reliable, and high-quality training and match conditions all year round.

Our local football clubs — from youth and grassroots teams to adult recreational sides — currently face significant challenges due to limited and poor-quality facilities. The introduction of an astro pitch would address these issues while advancing the council’s priorities for community health, social inclusion, and sustainable local development.

At present, local football clubs rely heavily on natural grass pitches, which are:

• Frequently unplayable in winter months due to waterlogging and poor drainage.

• Overused and deteriorating, resulting in uneven and unsafe surfaces.

• Unavailable for training during certain periods due to maintenance or weather closures.

As a result:

• Teams are often forced to travel outside the area for training, increasing costs and logistical barriers.

• Youth participation is declining due to unreliable scheduling and lack of facilities.

• Clubs are losing potential members, particularly among younger players and women’s teams who need regular, safe playing conditions.

Without improved infrastructure, local football risks losing its strong community presence and positive influence on health and youth engagement.

Benefits of a Community Astro Pitch

a. Reliable, Year-Round Access

An astro pitch provides a durable, all-weather surface, allowing matches and training sessions to continue regardless of conditions. This guarantees continuity for league fixtures and enables clubs to plan confidently across the entire season.

b. Development of Local Football

A dedicated astro facility will directly support:

• Youth development programs and local academy pathways.

• Girls’ and women’s football, providing equitable access to high-quality spaces.

• Grassroots coaching and community leagues, creating more opportunities for local participation.

This investment would strengthen the community’s football ecosystem — from beginners to competitive levels — and align with The Football Association’s grassroots strategy for accessible, inclusive facilities.

c. Health and Social Benefits

The pitch will promote:

• Physical activity and mental wellbeing across all age groups.

• Social cohesion, giving residents a safe and positive environment to gather, volunteer, and engage.

• Reduction in antisocial behaviour, particularly among youth, through structured sport and community engagement.

d. Sustainability and Financial Value

Modern astro pitches use recyclable materials and efficient drainage systems, with low maintenance costs and year-round usability. The facility can be financially self-sustaining through community hire fees, school partnerships, and local events, reinvesting proceeds into pitch upkeep and youth development programs.

The proposed astro pitch represents a transformational opportunity for our local area. It will:

• Provide consistent access to safe, high-quality facilities.

• Encourage youth participation and talent development.

• Strengthen community bonds through shared activity.

• Contribute to the council’s strategic goals for health, inclusion, and sustainability.