A brand new artificial turf pitch that meets FIFA standards for all-weather footie has been officially unveiled in Erewash – in a huge £450,000 council boost for sport in borough.
The state-of-the-art “3G” playing surface – fit for local soccer starlets to become the next Jude Bellingham – was opened by the Mayor.
Construction began in July – just weeks after England lost to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. An existing artificial pitch at Ilkeston’s Rutland Sports Park needed replacing – with the borough council securing government funding for the work.
The project has been overseen by Parkwood Leisure, which has a contract to run the borough’s leisure facilities. Upgraded LED floodlighting has been installed along with new fencing, a new shockpad, replacement kickboards and new divider nets.
Parkwood Leisure’s managing director Glen Hall said: “A wider range of activities will also be available thanks to what are known as MUGAs – multi use games areas.”
An original investment by Parkwood of £1.3million in the borough’s leisure centres has ballooned over the past five years. Mr Hall said proudly: “Our partnership with the council continues to strengthen and provide the people of Erewash with new and excellent leisure facilities and services.”
Mayor, Councillor Kate Fennelly was joined at the pitch’s grand opening by town hall officials and senior councillors including Erewash Borough Council leader James Dawson. Councillor Josy Hare, who is Lead Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “This new pitch is further proof of our commitment to the borough’s leisure centres – which we are investing in so residents have access to the very best facilities.”
Bookings to use the new pitch can be made by calling 0115 930 2033 or by emailing here.
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