Haydock has recently revealed its newly upgraded sports facility, a significant development stemming from the legacy of the Rugby League World Cup 2021 and a substantial investment of £278,000. This project, made possible through the collaborative efforts of the RLWC21 ‘Createdby’ initiative, St Helens Borough Council, and other contributors, represents a notable step forward in the enhancement of local community sports infrastructure.
The focal point of this undertaking is the 60m by 40m multi-use games area (MUGA), now equipped with a state-of-the-art 3G playing surface and timed floodlights, making it usable even during evening hours. These enhancements are set to elevate the training and playing conditions for local grassroots rugby and football clubs, particularly the Haydock Warriors ARLFC and Haydock FC. Additionally, the facility has undergone pavilion improvements, shower area refurbishments, and new flooring in changing rooms, along with the installation of a wider footpath to support walking and cycling. Taller posts for adult rugby league and repositioned sports pitches have also been put in place to align with the development plans for the clubs involved.
During a recent visit to the renovated KGV playing fields, Councillor Anthony Burns, St Helens Borough Council’s cabinet member for wellbeing, culture, and heritage, emphasised the project’s alignment with the council’s objectives of promoting health and creating vibrant community spaces. This facility not only caters to the immediate needs of the local rugby and football clubs, but also symbolises the council’s dedication to fostering sporting excellence and community well-being. This sentiment was echoed by Stephen Howarth, chairman of Haydock Warriors community rugby league club, who emphasised the facility’s value to the Haydock community and its potential to attract more sporting activities to the area.
The transformation of the KGV playing fields is more than just an infrastructural upgrade; it stands as a lasting legacy of the Rugby League World Cup 2021, promoting a stronger sports culture within the Haydock community. By providing top-quality facilities, the project aims to inspire greater participation in sports across all age groups, ultimately contributing to the overall health and vibrancy of the community.
As Haydock enters this new phase, the upgraded sports facility is poised to become a cornerstone of local sports and community engagement. The collaborative effort behind its realisation highlights the potential for major sporting events like the Rugby League World Cup to leave a lasting and positive impact on host communities. With the facility now open for more clubs and community groups to utilise, the future of sports in Haydock looks promising, offering enhanced opportunities for growth, development, and community cohesion.