Major investment into local sports facilities could boost participation across the borough

Following a £1.8million investment, Calderdale College was able to “transform” its outdoor sports provision through the refurbishment of its existing 3G pitch and the creation of a second “state-of-the-art” 3G pitch.

The college said the sports pitches are among the “highest quality” in the county, and will significantly increase capacity for year-round sport, supporting education, community use and grassroots football.

The college said it is working with community groups and sports clubs to maximise the use of the facilities and to increase participation among underrepresented groups, including women and girls, people with disabilities, people with long-term health conditions, and people from low-income families and areas of deprivation.

The college has partnered with Halifax FC Girls to provide a base for the club’s youth pathway, and is working with Unique Community Hub — a not-for-profit organisation supporting residents in Park ward — to encourage more young people to take part in sport and physical activity.

Andrew Harrison, Vice Principal of Corporate Services at Calderdale College, said: “This investment represents much more than new sports facilities.

“It creates opportunities for people across Calderdale to be more active, improve their wellbeing and enjoy access to some of the highest-quality 3G sports pitches in West Yorkshire.

“As a college that has served the community for more than 130 years, we’re proud to have invested in facilities that will benefit not only our students, but local schools, sports clubs and community groups for years to come.

“Working with local partners means we can maximise the impact of these facilities and inspire more people of all ages and backgrounds to get involved in sport.”

Robert Sullivan, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation, said: “The Football Foundation is working closely with our partners, the Premier League, The FA and Government, to transform the quality of grassroots facilities in England by delivering projects like this across the country.

“Good quality playing facilities have a transformative impact on physical and mental health and play an important role in bringing people together and strengthening local communities.

“We’re delighted that the local community in Calderdale will now be able to enjoy all these benefits thanks to the new facilities at Calderdale College.”