Work is now underway to transform football pitches at two popular parks in Standish as part of Wigan Council’s continued investment in grassroots sport.
The pitches at Ashfield Park and Southlands Recreation Ground, better known locally as “The Rec”, are being remodelled and re-seeded to create improved playing surfaces. New drainage will also be installed to help the pitches cope better with wet weather, allowing them to remain in use for more of the year.
Councillor Chris Ready, Wigan Council’s cabinet member for communities and neighbourhoods, said the improvements would benefit both local football clubs and the wider community.
He said: “Football is the world’s favourite sport, loved by billions, but it would be nothing without its grassroots.
“While many people are enjoying the World Cup, we’re also pleased to continue investing in local facilities so residents can enjoy the game closer to home.
“We’ve already delivered football hubs at Laithwaite Park and William Foster Playing Fields in Ince, but improving traditional park pitches like those at Ashfield Park and Standish Rec is just as important.
“Whether it’s providing quality pitches for local clubs or giving young people and families safe places to stay active, these facilities are a valuable part of the community.”
The project will see improvements made to four pitches at Ashfield Park, following recent investment in a new children’s play area and outdoor gym equipment at the site.
Wigan Council has confirmed that access to the playground, footpaths and surrounding woodland will remain open throughout the works. However, sections of the pitches will be fenced off at times to protect the newly seeded grass and ensure public safety.
The construction work is expected to take around a month to complete. Once finished, the new playing surfaces will require up to 12 months to fully establish, depending on weather conditions. During that period, maintenance will be carried out by contractors Talbot Farm Landscapes.
Although primarily designed for football, the upgraded pitches will also be suitable for other sports and recreational activities, particularly during the summer months.