Middlewich is set to improve its playing field facilities, aiming for better community access and sports opportunities
Middlewich: The Sutton Lane Playing Field is currently out of action due to outdated facilities that just aren’t cutting it anymore, according to the Football Foundation.
Back in 2022, Cheshire East Council greenlit a big plan for a new two-storey building with changing rooms and a gym. But fast forward to 2024, and they scrapped that plan due to some financial hiccups.
The good news is that the planning permission is still valid for three years, but it’s running out soon—March 24, to be exact.
There’s talk about possibly having a club or league take charge if they can get some investment to spruce up the playing field.
Even though this project is a top priority, getting funding from the Football Association, Premier League, and Sport England means going through an application process.
Robert Sullivan, the chief executive of the Football Foundation, mentioned that they’re eager to collaborate with Cheshire East Council to boost local football opportunities.
Mick Warren, who chairs the council’s environment and communities committee, added that while football projects are key, there’s a chance to enhance health and wellbeing by supporting other sports too.
Other towns like Congleton, Crewe, and Knutsford are also looking to improve their football pitches and facilities.
If you want to know more about the local authority’s plans, check out www.footballfoundation.org.uk/local-plans/.
This article is by Jack Tooth. You can reach him at jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk.
