FAW backing for Welshpool 3G pitch bid
The town has been left short-changed by the loss of Salop Road Playing Fields (pictured) to develop the new primary school, and with little sign of replacements a group of concerned residents and stakeholders have pitched in to try and make a difference.
After months of planning and discussions, the group are now getting some traction and have been buoyed by the news that the Football Association of Wales’ (FAW) top man, as well as Welshpool Town Council, have thrown their weight behind the bid.
MyWelshpool understands that the group, led by former Welshpool High School headmaster, Paul Coackley, is working with local sports clubs to float the idea of turning the town’s rugby pitch into a state-of-the-art 3G facility - similar to Latham Park in Newtown.
But with that project expected to cost in the region of £1m, a plan B is also in the offing of acquiring alternative fields elsewhere on the town’s edge to convert into much needed sports pitches.
Last month, both Powys County Council and ClwydAlyn, who are developing the multi-million care project at Neuadd Maldwyn, both offered their verbal backing, but no indication has been given by either of their financial support. Sport Wales is also a known backer and is monitoring developments.
Last Wednesday, Mr Coackley presented a business plan to Welshpool Town Council who said they would be happy to lead on any project that secures the new facility.
And this morning, an email to Mr Coackley, seen by MyWelshpool, declared that FAW Chief Executive, Jonathan Ford, strongly supports the bid.
“The FAW strongly supports the sterling work of your community group to resolve the significant access issues caused by the loss of the Salop Road Playing Fields,” said Mr Ford.
“This includes the restoration of capacity to satisfy both current needs as well as known latent demand, either through the proposed 3G facility or the provision of new grass pitch space equivalent to that previously provided at the Salop Road Fields.
“Before Covid-19, the football community in Welshpool was thriving with a growing demand from young people and particularly girls. The lack of sufficient, suitable facilities when football resumes is going to create a worrying barrier to future growth and the effective return to play.
“We believe the power and community impact of football cannot be overlooked.”
While verbal support for the project will be very much welcomed by the group behind the bid, they will be keen to know how this can turn into financial support to turn those plans into a reality.
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