Former Wales football international Danny Gabbidon opened the new sports and community facilities at Ponthir Sports and Community Club (PSCC) this week.
Volunteers at the club have worked for four years to plan, prepare and complete the project.
The club now has three new football pitches and the cricket and main football pitches have been levelled.
Underground drainage systems have been fitted to every pitch at the club.
The old clubhouse has been completely redesigned to include four new team changing rooms, two officials’ changing rooms, and a disabled toilet.
A new community hub has also been constructed, providing a space for various community uses, and a clubhouse for over 500 members and visitors.
In addition to the new buildings, a new car park has been built, complete with a special surface water system to reduce the risk of flooding.
The patio areas have been renewed and raised to provide level access to the buildings.
John Parfitt, former director and club secretary, led the club’s search for external funding. He said, “These facilities are not only designed to accommodate the growing number of sports teams but also for the benefit of the local community.
“The community has embraced what the club has to offer by supporting us while we were seeking planning permission and licenses, and by choosing PSCC as the place to visit with the family.”
The £750,000 investment in these new facilities brings the total investment over the past four years to over one million pounds.
The funding was secured through the FAW’s Cymru Football Foundation, The Welsh Government’s Community Facilities Programme, and Cricket Wales, along with contributions from the club’s own resources.
It represents the largest investment in community and sports facilities ever made in Ponthir.
Tony Pead, treasurer and director at the club, said: “I’d like to thank all the local businesses, friends and neighbours whose support has been so vital to this outcome.”
David Leech, Torfaen Council’s strategic director for adults and communities, said: “This project is a shining example of a community-led approach in action. By empowering local groups like the Ponthir Sports and Community Club, we enable them to take the lead in creating facilities that truly meet the needs of their community.
“The council’s role as an enabler has allowed the club to harness local enthusiasm and resources, resulting in a facility that will benefit residents for years to come.”
More information about Ponthir Sports and Community Club
For more information about this new development and sports provisions at the site, contact Ponthir Sports and Community Club on 07970 578879 or email [email protected]