Council to fund new all weather pitch
The council says the increased capacity would support greater participation in sport and physical activity among local teams, schools, and community groups.
Plans to replace Faraday Road’s grass pitch with an all weather one get lodged this week – and the council has decided to borrow £1.25m to fund the move itself, rather than wait for an application for funding to Sport England for it.
The reason, says leader Jeff Brooks who made the decision, is that it will make money.
The business case, went before the council execuive committee which claims it will make around £170k a year in revenue.
Spades could be in the ground by early next year if the planning consent is given, meaning, according to Mr Brooks, that the new pitch could be ready to play on by Spring 2026.
It would also promote physical fitness, mental wellbeing, and social interaction across all age groups, it says.
In announcing the move, Nigel Foot, portfilo holder for leisure, said the pitch would serve as a reliable venue for grassroots football clubs, school sports programmes, and youth development initiatives.
“The vagaries of the weather have been evident over the time the ground has been in service,” he told the meeting.
“Heavy rain can lead to the grass surface needing to be handled with care and not to be over-played, while exceptionally dry weather, such as we have had this summer, can mean the playing surface is so hard, it is unsafe for matches.
“Consequently, these days, 3G artificial grass surfaces are the preferred Football Association and Football Foundation option for football pitches as they can be played all year round, whatever the weather, and if properly maintained, can give good service for at least 10 years.”
Peak usage income would be from a full-size artificial pitch hired in thirds – so three 7-a-side areas – during peak hours, which are typically 5pm–10pm weekdays, which can generate £630 per weekday. This equates to £3,150 per week, or around £125,000 per year, assuming consistent bookings and some weekend usage.
Off-peak income, which is typically from 9am–5pm weekdays and early mornings on weekends, are less in demand, but still, says the council, offer revenue opportunities.
Based on examples from other locations and other clubs, off-peak usage can generate an estimated 30–40 per cent of peak income, depending on local demand and programming.
That equates to £40,000–£47,000 per year.