Wrexham Council Looks to Back ‘Grassroots Sports’ With Reduction of Pitch Hire Costs

The cost to hire sports pitches and changing facilities across the County Borough is to be reduced as part of a new trial scheme. 

Members of Wrexham Council’s Executive Board yesterday unanimously backed proposals to introduce a pilot scheme which will see the reduction in hire prices for sports pitches and changing facilities across the County Borough.

The council manages and maintains 26 bookable football pitches, one rugby pitch and 13 associated sports changing rooms. The piloted price reduction comes as a result of concerns being raised by local football clubs regarding the affordability of football and sports grounds across the County Borough and the condition of some of the facilities, particularly the changing rooms.

The report, which outlines a 12 month piloted reduction in prices for the use of sports pitches and changing facilities owned by Wrexham Council was praised by members at this morning’s meeting.

Introducing the report Lead Member for Environment and Transport, Cllr David Bithell said: “It is true to say that over the last two years some football teams have struggled financially to meet ends and some clubs are struggling because of the prices we charge.

“We have done some work and taken guidance from neighbouring authorities on how we can structure the fees better and make it accessible for children to take part in sport and recreational facilities.”

The piloted charges, which are detailed in full below, will come alongside a ‘wider’ review of the management, control and operation of the council’s sporting facilities.

The report was welcomed by members of the Executive Board, with Cllr Joan Lowe stating: “It shows Wrexham Council are willing and wanting to work with clubs and the facilities we have and encouraging all generations to participate in sport.

“With my health hat on, I think it is really important we try and encourage from a young age right through to have that participation in sport and I think this is a really good initiative.

“I know its a pilot scheme but gives us a chance to look at things more in-depth and to see a way forward.”

However concerns were raised about the drop in Sunday League teams using the Council’s sports pitches, with the report noting that the number of clubs participating has dropped from 21 teams, 5 years ago to 10 teams in the last season.

Cllr Alun Jenkins said: “It is worrying about number of Sunday Football Leagues matches has dropped from 21 teams to 10 teams. There was a time when Sunday League there wasn’t enough pitches to accomodate them all – it is worrying to be in the position.

this is one year. have problem with pitches and changing rooms not fully maintained. money isn’t there. hinting here at future choices, been here before. can transfer responsibly of pitches to clubs, if you give them sole use depriving communities to use these

Addressing the concern DB – yes there will be a conflict potentially. people want public open space to play on and clubs want them for sole use

Questions were also asked on what more could be done to support local grassroots football, especially off the back of Wales’ recent achievements in Euro 2016.

Cllr Brian Cameron said: “It is probably a discussion surrounding the changing rooms and facilities given that  the invitation has gone to the Welsh FA to come in with their Welsh team.

“The discussions, are the ongoing or are you seeking discussions with the Welsh FA for financial assistances to help with the facilities that WCBC have? The grassroots of football are important for boys and girls if we are to capitalise on the success of the Welsh football team.”

Cllr Bithell said: “What we need to do is understand the responsibilities for the football fields lie with Wrexham Council. Some football fields have Owain Glyndwr status, some don’t. Some currently have currently sole use, some don’t.

“Before we have discussions with the Welsh FA and I’m quite happy to have discussions or I’m sure officers will, we need to understand what our position is and what direction to travel as part this review we undertake first before we try and seek investment.

“Need to understand fuller picture first before going down a particular route. I take on board about having discussions happy to have them if and when they are required.”

Cllr Cameron added: “I feel as an authority we have a responsibly to the people in the area. Where you’re talking about the football pitches being an asset to the authority, the people who play on them, whether it be young children, juniors, youths or seniors – they are also assets to the Welsh FA.

“It is important both sides come together to see whether there is anything that could be done in relation to the future in the Wrexham area.”

The pilot scheme was approved unanimously by members of the Executive Board – with proposals also jokingly put forward for the lead members to take on the opposition in a football tournament.

Cllr Ronnie Prince referring to old Councillor charity football match (lost 11-8 to the staff). Enquires if it can be regrouped as a team!

— Wrexham.com (@wrexham) July 12, 2016

Cllr Bithell issues a football match challenge, administration Councillors v the Opposition. Shout from the floor 'you would lose ten nil'

— Wrexham.com (@wrexham) July 12, 2016