New football facilities at Ringwood Community Hub in Long Lane supported by £535,000 grant from New Forest District Council

NEW football facilities have officially been opened thanks to a £535,000 grant from New Forest District Council.

The £3.4m project at Ringwood Community Hub in Long Lane, Kingston, includes grass pitches, a two-storey pavilion with changing rooms, offices, and a club house.

A 3G artificial turf pitch opened for football training in February 2023.

The money from the district council came from developer contributions, in addition to support from Ringwood Town Council, AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust and the Football Foundation.

NFDC leader Cllr Jill Cleary, speaking at the opening, said: “It is wonderful to be here, seeing these amazing facilities opened for the community.

“This has been several years in the making, and I am aware of the partnership work and effort that has been put in to deliver this facility.”

She added: “We have invested in this project as we can see the importance of this facility for the area. It will help to address the current need for pitches and help to increase the levels of activity in the area, as well as giving local residents facilities to be proud of.

“It demonstrates our commitment to investing in our place, to ensure the prosperity of our people. This facility will help to improve the health and wellbeing of our community, young and old alike, existing and new participants.”

Cllr Dan Poole, the district council’s cabinet member for community, safety and wellbeing, added: “It's great to see all the facilities now open.

“The pavilion, artificial pitch and the grass pitches are important assets to the local community and we want to see them supporting as many people as possible, to lead an active and healthy life.

“Working with our partners, we will see more opportunities for female footballers, walking football, and for those with a disability to enjoy being active.”