A team effort has netted a fresh funding boost to improve playing surfaces at Huntershill Sports Hub in Bishopbriggs.
It is part of East Dunbartonshire Council's ongoing work to enhance pitches across the area.
Huntershill Sports Hub will benefit from a grant of £319,778 from the UK Government's Multi-Sport Grassroots Facilities Programme, delivered via the Scottish Football Association’s Pitching In Fund.
It was secured by East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture (EDLC) Trust with the support of Rossvale Football Club, West Park United FC and East Dunbartonshire FC. The popular facility is owned by the Council and operated by EDLC Trust.
The grant includes £301,058 to resurface two 11-a-side artificial pitches and £18,720 for Intelligent Play systems, which monitor pitches and provide in-depth data for maintenance purposes.
It ties in with the Council's Capital Programme, which includes £1.16 million to replace pitches at Merkland Recreation Centre in Kirkintilloch and Huntershill, with external funding being secured where possible.
The Capital Programme also includes £1 million to refurbish sports pavilions at Merkland, and Thorn Park and Colquhoun Park in Bearsden, and £300,000 to complete a feasibility study for the potential upgrading of sports facilities at Oakburn Park, Milngavie.
Councillor Gordan Low, Leader of the Council, said, "I'm very pleased we have been able to secure funding to upgrade two sports pitches at Huntershill. It was very much a team effort – involving community football clubs which are run by volunteers, with male and female teams of all ages.
"The grant complements the Council's Capital Programme, which includes investment across East Dunbartonshire. When it was approved, we were keen to secure external support where possible – so well done to all."
The Council's Capital Programme is funded differently and separate from the Revenue Budget, which pays for day-to-day services.
Councillor Jim Gibbons, Vice Chair of EDLC Trust, said, "We're delighted to secure funding for the replacement of two pitches at Huntershill Sports Hub.
“It helps to support our mission to provide access to first-class facilities wherever possible – encouraging people of all ages and from all backgrounds to get active."
Huntershill Sports Hub is located at 35 Auchinairn Road, Bishopbriggs, G64 1RU. For more information, visit the EDLC website.
