Celebrations mark official opening of new Winchester 3G pitch
The installation of a new community 3G pitch in Winchester has been celebrated at an official opening event.
The high-quality pitch, which has replaced the current grass pitch at Hillier Way football ground, is a surface which can be used all year round.
The Hillier Way ground is the home venue of Winchester City FC, a committee-run members club which has a history dating back to 1884. The club’s first game on the new surface was an FA Cup qualifying game against Weymouth.
The facility is also used by Winchester City Flyers girls’ and ladies’ teams, and Winchester Youth FC.
The new pitch has been funded by: a grant from the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation of £1,132,214; Winchester City Council Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding of £300,000; and £16,000 from Winchester City FC.
It is also available for wider local community activity sessions and private hire, including use by schools, colleges and other clubs.
Robert Sullivan, Chief Executive of The Football Foundation, said: “The Football Foundation is working closely with our partners – the Premier League, The FA and Government – to transform the quality of grassroots facilities in England by delivering projects like this across the country.
“Good quality playing facilities have a transformative impact on physical and mental health and play an important role in bringing people together and strengthening local communities.
“We’re delighted that the local community in Winchester will now be able to enjoy all these benefits thanks to the new 3G pitch at The Hillier Way Football Ground.”
Winchester City Council’s Cabinet Member for Community and Engagement Cllr Kathleen Becker said: “We’re very pleased to celebrate the official opening of this fantastic new surface which cements existing opportunities for community sport. It opens up exciting new ones too, including increased opportunities for female coaches and players in the district.
“Already being well used by the local community, we also look forward to seeing this pitch benefit schools and other clubs for sessions, holiday activity and private hire.”
Winchester City FC Chairman Ken Raisbeck said: “The completion of the stadium development represents a significant moment in the history of the football club but also an opportunity for the community of Winchester.
“Football is a great vehicle to bring people together as well as encourage health and wellbeing. This facility creates a home for the club and from five-year-olds through to the first team, we now have an asset that can be used by everyone.
“I am delighted that the council supported the vision and through the football club we were able to bring investment to the city to provide this fantastic facility; it’s an exciting moment in the development of the club and our community partners.”