A brand-new 3G pitch to boost grassroots sport in Braintree has opened at Notley High School.
Over £1million was invested to deliver the floodlit, all-weather pitch, thanks to funding from the Premier League, the FA and Government’s Football Foundation, Bridge Academy Trust and Section 106 funding secured by Braintree District Council from developers.
The new facility, managed by Notley High School, is designed for flexibility to accommodate a range of age groups and small-sided matches for community and school use. It features floodlights, high fencing, goal storage, a new spectator area, and safe access for players and visitors.
It forms part of the council’s outdoor sports improvements to deliver four new pitches in Braintree and Witham for existing and new residents following public feedback asking for more pitches due to increased demand and the growing popularity of casual and small sided football. These projects have been supported by a £1.2million investment from Section 106 funding.
Councillor Gabrielle Spray, Cabinet Member for Planning at Braintree District Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see this new pitch open its doors to the community. This is a brilliant example of how the planning process can directly benefit residents. By securing Section 106 contributions from new developments, we’re able to reinvest in vital infrastructure, giving people greater access to the facilities they’ve told us they need. We remain committed to maximising developer contributions to support projects like this to benefit our communities.”
Mark Barrow, Headteacher at Notley High School & Braintree Sixth Form, said: “This new pitch is a fantastic addition for both our students and the wider community. It will enhance sporting opportunities, support wellbeing, and ensure local people have access to high-quality facilities for years to come.”
Nick Emery, Head of Development & Investment at Essex County FA, said: “We were delighted to work closely with Braintree District Council to deliver this 3G AGP as part of a wider portfolio of projects across the district. It will make a significant difference to the thriving grassroots football community in Notley, and the surrounding areas. Grassroots football plays a vital role in strengthening local communities, and developments like this expand access to playing opportunities, helping more people to enjoy the many benefits of the game.”
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 Braintree will now be able to enjoy all these benefits thanks to the new facilities at Notley High School.”
People can book the pitch online or email alan.menzies@notleyhigh.com.