Flash pitch to re-open in December

The Flash outdoor pitch is set to miss its promised Autumn reopening date, but Powys County Council has said it will be open for Christmas – Covid-permitting.

The much-maligned facility has been closed for a year after widespread damage from flooding in 2019, but promises were made this summer to have it up and running in the autumn.

MyWelshpool has been pushing for an update in recent weeks on behalf of fed-up clubs who say they are losing players and interest due to inaction, a situation exacerbated by the loss of Salop Road playing fields to the new primary school.

But now Powys County Council and Freedom Leisure, who manage the facility, said the playing surface will be replaced along with a revised pitch lighting design.

Specialist contractor Cleveland Land Services has been appointed to do the work and will be meeting the council to plan operations “immediately”.

The council said that works should be completed by early December and the pitch will then reopen, subject to any further changes to Covid restrictions or regulations which could impact completion dates.

Cabinet Member for Young People and Culture, Councillor Rachel Powell said: “This project demonstrates Powys’ continued commitment in providing inclusive sport and leisure facilities for communities in Powys.

“We would like to thank customers and users of the leisure centre in Welshpool for their patience and continued support and understanding while these works have been progressing. Appointing a contractor for the project is a major step forward and we look forward to having the facility reopen.”