Local council allocates £450k funding for construction of new 3G football pitch at Gigg Lane

A brand-new all-weather pitch at Bury FC’s Gigg Lane stadium is edging closer to reality thanks to plans being considered by Bury Council.

Town hall leaders are proposing to invest £450,000 towards replacing the current grass pitch with a state-of-the-art 3G pitch. This funding is a clear sign of support for bringing elite men’s football back to its historic home, in a club owned and operated by its loyal fans.

The council’s cabinet will review the proposal at its meeting next Wednesday (13 March). Councillor Charlotte Morris, in charge of culture, the economy, and skills, commented: “A 3G pitch at Gigg Lane would be a valuable asset for both the football club and the local community, showcasing how a fan-owned club can bring about genuine social benefits. Bury Council is fully committed to supporting the club and we’re pleased to contribute financially towards this exciting project.

“Securing the future of Gigg Lane will not only support the local economy but also provide additional benefits through floodlit 3G sports facilities that can be used by various grassroots sports clubs in the area. This is a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with a fan-owned football club to create tangible community benefits.”

The agreement is subject to a financial review of the pitch proposal, final Government funding, lease agreements, and a community engagement strategy. This plan includes offering the pitch to community groups, running motivational programs for young people, promoting public health initiatives, addressing issues of isolation among older individuals, and providing free match tickets to specific groups like care leavers and local school children.

Phil Young, chair of the Football Supporters’ Society of Bury, whose members are the owners of Bury Football Club, expressed his support for the artificial pitch, stating: “An artificial pitch would be a game-changer for both the club and the town, bringing the community together at the stadium for various sporting and social activities throughout the week. 92% of our members, who are the club owners, have voted in favour of this exciting development.”