New 3G pitch opens at Notley High School, Braintree

Alan Menzies, Alex Harrington, Mark Barrow, John Wood, Councillor Justin Wrench, Councillor George Prime, Mark Farmer, Nick Emery, Councillor Gabrielle Spray and Joby Humm <i>(Image: Lisa Oldroyd)</i>
Alan Menzies, Alex Harrington, Mark Barrow, John Wood, Councillor Justin Wrench, Councillor George Prime, Mark Farmer, Nick Emery, Councillor Gabrielle Spray and Joby Humm (Image: Lisa Oldroyd)
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A NEW 3G pitch has opened to boost grassroots sport in Braintree.

More than £1 million was invested to deliver the floodlit, all-weather pitch at Notley High School.

Funding came from the Premier League, the FA and Government’s Football Foundation, Bridge Academy Trust, and Section 106 funding secured by Braintree Council from developers.

The facility, which will be managed by the school, will be able to accommodate a range of age groups and small-sided matches for community and school use.

Gabrielle Spray, councillor responsible for planning at Braintree 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."

The pitch features floodlights, high fencing, goal storage, a new spectator area, and safe access for players and visitors.

Mark Barrow, headteacher at Notley High School and 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."

The pitch is part of Braintree Council's outdoor sports improvement plans.

Four new pitches will be delivered in Braintree and Witham due to increased demand and the growing popularity of casual and small-sided football.

Nick Emery, head of development and 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."

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."

The pitch can be booked online by visiting schoolhire.co.uk/braintree/notley-high-school-braintree-sixth-form or email alan.menzies@notleyhigh.com.

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