A new £2.5million sporting hub that will inspire the next generation of Lions and Lionesses has been officially opened in Droitwich Spa.
The development, delivered by Conservative-led Wychavon District Council includes a new floodlit all-weather 3G artificial pitch, a refurbished pavilion and new changing rooms. The development will increase the playing and training time available to local clubs and community groups, particularly for junior footballers.
As part of the project, Droitwich FC's ground, which is next door, has been upgraded with new seating and dugouts. This has allowed the club to return to playing its home games in Droitwich.
For the last four years they have been forced to play at Stourport as the ground would not meet the requirements to compete at a higher level. The new facilities meet current and future requirements to allow the club to play matches in Droitwich and provide the potential for further promotions.
The Football Foundation backed the development with a £460,000 grant while the rest of the funding came from S106 money – which is money given by developers to invest in sports and leisure facilities in Droitwich as part of planning agreements.
Conservative Cllr Rob Adams, Executive Board Member for Executive Board Member for Stronger Communities, Culture and Sport, said: "Three years ago we started to talk about this project and it's wonderful to see the transformation that's taken place. This couldn't have happened without the help of the many great partners we have worked with.
"It's a wonderful facility for people of all ages, the whole community, and another example of how Wychavon is investing in sports and leisure facilities across the district."
