The popular 3G sports pitch at Hove Park has re-opened following refurbishment, offering an updated and improved facility for local football players.
The pitch closed back in June after reaching the end of its useful life and failing to meet health and safety requirements.
But, following a swift procurement process, and partnership working between the council and leaseholder Russell Martin Foundation, along with specialist consultants Notts Sport and contractor Holcim, a new pitch has been delivered on time and under budget.
Councillor Alan Robins, Cabinet Member for Sport, Recreation and Libraries, said: “I’m delighted that, through positive partnership working, we have been able to refurbish and re-open this very popular sports pitch.
“It’s another step forward in our commitment to improve sports facilities in the city and provide opportunities for residents to get active.”
The new pitch fully complies with the latest Sport England and FA requirements, with improvements including new gate grills and rebound boards around the perimeter.
Alan Sanders, CEO of the Russell Martin Foundation, said: “We are delighted that the Hove Park 3G is open again for use by the local community.
“Over the past seven years, the facility has proved incredibly popular and all at the Russell Martin Foundation are proud of the impact it has made.
"In addition, we are very grateful for the help and support we have been given by Brighton & Hove City Council in redeveloping the site.”
Founder Russell Martin added: “We are honoured to be facilitating Hove Park 3G and providing a service for all ages.
“The impact this pitch has had has been huge in the local area. We are excited to be welcoming back players to a brand-new pitch so they can get back to playing the game they love.”
The re-opening of the Hove Park pitch is the latest in a string of sports facility improvements in the city.
Last week, the multi-use games area (MUGA) at Withdean re-opened, and work started this week to relocate the Moulsecoomb MUGA to Hangleton Park. The resurfaced sports facility at Saltdean is also due to re-open shortly.
The improvements, along with the Sports Facilities Investment Plan, highlight the council’s commitment to develop good quality, accessible, sustainable facilities and services over the next 10 years.
