Plans to redevelop Ardrossan Community Sports Hub in North Ayrshire has been unlocked with new funding.

North Ayrshire Council's Cabinet has agreed the early release of £15,000 to progress the installation of a new 3G synthetic football pitch at the Winton Park facility. This forms part of the £100k CIF fund previously agreed.

Eddie Gibb, Secretary of Ardrossan Community Sport Hub commented: "Our plans for the new 3G pitch and improved facilities are all part of a strategic partnership between Ardrossan Community Sports Hub, Ardrossan Winton Rovers Community Interest Company, and Ardrossan Winton Rovers Youth Academy.

"The Three Towns Locality Partnership have been instrumental in helping us to secure the £100k funding earlier this year. But with the overall project set to cost £600k so it's important that we can engage with other external funders who can help us to realise our ambitions.


"We're delighted that our locality officer has helped us to overcome the next hurdle and that Cabinet have granted the early release of £15k CIF funding so we can work to securing our next round of investment."

With over 300 members, including weekly youth football training, players are currently having to play elsewhere as the current facility is need of significant modernisation.

Councillor Alan Hill added: "Once again, thanks to the support of the Three Towns Locality Partnership, we're in a position to help Ardrossan Community Sports Hub and the young players of Winton Rovers in their ambitious 3G pitch plans.

"Having the new astro-pitch is going to have such a lasting and positive impact for everyone using the facility, where they can belong and be proud of.

"The Community Investment Fund really is a great example of community empowerment in action and each of the projects support the Three Towns' priorities of regenerating community facilities and increasing civic pride.

"Once refurbished, the Ardrossan Scout Hall and Winton's 3G pitch will bring a host of community engagement opportunities, while improving the health and wellbeing of local residents in the surrounding area. These projects really are a win, win for everyone involved.

"So if you are part of a community group in need of funding or know a group that could benefit from an upgrade to their facilities, please get in touch with us to find out more and help your community to realise its full potential as we build a better North Ayrshire together, for all."