LONG awaited work to transform outdoor football facilities in Runcorn is underway, with those behind the scheme hailing it a 'boost to grassroots sport'.

Halton Council has begun work to transform the sand-based artificial turf pitch at Brookvale Recreation Centre into a new 100m x 64m, LED floodlit 3G football turf pitch. It follows a £303,284 grant from the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation.

The site will be used by Beechwood JFC, Runcorn Town FC and other local teams as well as Ormiston Bolingbrook Academy.

The Council worked in partnership with the Cheshire County FA to secure the Football Foundation funding.

Cllr Paul Nolan, Halton Borough Council's Executive Board Member for Sport and Leisure, said the work was long-awaited and would be a huge benefit to the borough's sporting community.

He said: “The upgrade is well overdue and it is great to see the work has commenced.

"The council and its partners are working on a development plan that will deliver a wide range of activities to the local community.

"Users will have the latest, top quality playing surface, thanks to the Football Foundation.”

Robert Sullivan, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation, added: “It is great news for Halton that Halton Borough Council has started work at their Brookvale Recreation Centre site.

“This is the latest example of investment from our partners, the Premier League, The FA, Government and Sport England, improving grassroots facilities across the country."

"This funding is enabling more people to enjoy the benefits of playing regular sport.”