EXPERTS asked by the council to study sporting provision in the borough said that Hartford campus should be a priority for investment if money is made available to improve facilities.

Neil Allen Associates, based in Lymm, helped to write Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Playing Pitch Strategy, published last year.

In it, they wrote that the site of Chester Road was positioned perfectly to benefit from a shared agreement between Hartford Church of England High School and Mid Cheshire College.

Half of a £1m sum earmarked for new 3G pitches in Northwich will be spent there if plans are approved.

“This initiative is great news for the area,” said Mike Holland, head-teacher at Hartford.

“The FA has recognised the excellent work done by our numerous community football clubs and I hope this will help them to flourish still further.

“Working together with the council, college and the FA, we’ll make sure this facility benefits everybody.”

Vale Royal School Sport Partnership, which works with primary and high schools in the area to encourage children to play sport and be active, is based at the school too.

“We congratulate the council and Cheshire FA for their vision in developing facilities at a school that will significantly improve PE and community sport provision for young people,” said Chris Story, partnership development manager.

“The impact of first class facilities, when coupled with high quality delivery, cannot be underestimated whether you’re looking to improve participation, competition pathways or the community’s general health.

“We’re excited about working with the users and operators of both sites to help get more people active.”

Richard Holywood, principal at Mid Cheshire College, said the planned improvements would mark the latest stage in a redevelopment of the site over the past few years.

He said: “We’re happy, and think the proposal could provide a unique sporting environment for those living nearby.”

 


 

GRAHAM Evans, MP for Weaver Vale, says he hopes youngsters will benefit from having access to improved facilities in Northwich where they can practice sport.

A supporter of clubs and teams in the town, he believes a proposal to spend £1m on two, floodlit 3G pitches at Moss Farm and Hartford campus can only be a good thing.

He said: “I regularly visit Moss Farm to meet with sports groups, and never fail to be astounded by their passion and dedication.

“It’s right that we should be looking at more ways to support teams, especially if that encourages children and teenagers to get changed into a kit and out onto a pitch.

“That’s why I’m especially pleased that Hartford Church of England High School and Mid Cheshire College will be involved in the project.

“I’m looking forward to supporting the plans every way I can.”