Exciting developments are underway in Crewe, as the local football club and the council have announced a collaboration aimed at upgrading the area’s playing facilities. The Cheshire East Council, in partnership with Crewe FC, is embarking on a £1.4m project to install a 3G artificial grass pitch and enhance the changing facilities at King George V Playing Fields.
According to Steve Parker, Chairman of Crewe FC, this joint initiative represents a significant stride in the ongoing efforts to nurture grassroots football. The goal is not only to attract more individuals to the sport, but also to ensure the long-term viability of the club.
Established in 1998, Crewe FC is a community club that caters to a diverse range of players, including men, women, and children, with multiple teams under its auspices. The new 3G pitch will be managed by the club through a 21-year lease agreement with the council, and is expected to complement the existing three adult pitches and three youth pitches at King George V Playing Fields.
In addition to the artificial pitch, the project encompasses plans to make the pavilion more inclusive, with features such as full wheelchair access, facilities for disabled individuals, and gender-neutral changing areas. The project will necessitate approval through the planning application process and securing grant funding from the Football Foundation.
The next steps will involve the submission of the planning application, which the Cheshire East Council anticipates happening “soon.” Following this, the application for grant funding is expected to be made in the autumn.
Dr. Kieran Mullan, the Conservative MP for Crewe, commended the dedication of Crewe FC’s chairman and the team of volunteers for their efforts in making this partnership a reality. He also noted their commitment to positively impacting the lives of young individuals in the community through sports.
The collaboration between the football club and the local council represents a promising prospect for the future of football in Crewe. The planned developments in the playing facilities are not only set to benefit existing players, but also to attract more individuals to participate in the sport.
The commitment to the continual improvement of grassroots football and the inclusive approach to facility development reflect the mutual objective of creating a flourishing and accessible sports environment for the community. This partnership serves as an illustration of the potential for positive change that can be achieved through collaborative efforts between local organisations.
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