THE group of local clubs and partner organisations who have been working on building a community 3G pitch at Prince Henry’s Grammar School in Otley is delighted to announce that the pitch will begin construction on Monday, February 20.
Headteacher at Prince Henry’s, Sally Bishop said: “After five years of hard work with our partner clubs and organisations, we are delighted that the community 3G pitch at Prince Henry’s Grammar School can now begin construction.
"Since this much needed project was identified by the Football Foundation, we have all worked together to design a pitch to be proud of, which will enhance the lives of so many of Otley’s residents and school children.
"We look forward to continuing to work across the community during the build itself, and beyond, so that we can, as a group, move forward with this amazing resource for our community.”
Chair of Sport Chevin, Richard Davies said “It is brilliant that this fantastic community scheme can finally begin construction, after years of partnership working. Otley can join its neighbours in Menston, Ilkley, and Horsforth in having modern sports facilities that they take for granted.
"We would like to thank Otley Town Council for their generous grant from the Investing in Otley Fund and all the partner clubs and local people who have joined the Football Foundation in funding this project.”
The pitch, which includes a rugby shock pad, will greatly enhance the work of the Prince Henry’s PE Faculty – both in curriculum time and after school – and provide significant benefits for the partner community clubs, primary schools and local people, through planned new activities.
As well as the more obvious benefits for physical activity, the additional environmental benefits of the wildlife buffer zone include swift boxes, bat corridors, a wildlife pond and an apple orchard.
The main partners in the project are Otley RUFC and Otliensians (Rugby and Hockey), Otley Town Juniors, Weston Lane JFC and Pool JFC who raised money through their members and Prince Henry's parents through a crowdfunding campaign. Otley Netball ran an event and Shadow Brewing donated £1 a pint to the crowdfunder.
Planning permission was granted in November 2021.
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