Slades Park in Bournemouth is celebrating the completion of its latest facility enhancement for local residents, a FIFA standard floodlit 3G football pitch. Active Dorset, in partnership with Glenmoor and Winton Academy, Talbot Village Trust and the Football Foundation, have financed the new pitch which is the first of its type in Bournemouth.

Following extensive consultation with residents and key local partners the site in Ensbury Avenue was selected as it best served local demand. Alongside the new Pavilion, the Olympic sized velodrome, fantastic play and dog friendly facilities, Slades Park is being transformed into a vibrant hub of activity for all in the centre of the conurbation. A huge part of this has been achieved through the engagement and involvement of volunteers from all around Slades.

Martin Kimberley, Active Dorset Chief Executive, commented; "The 3G Pitch is a great addition to the offerings in Slades Park. A massive thank you to all the partners involved who have made this possible. We cannot wait for our local clubs to begin training here, and for community play to be underway."

Local clubs have enthusiastically grasped the opportunity that an all-weather, year-round, high quality playing surface brings, and we are delighted that Bournemouth Electric FC, Bournemouth University, AFC Bournemouth Community Trust and Bournemouth Collegiate Community Club are all partner clubs in the project. Each club has a variety of playing opportunities for local players of all ages and abilities. These club activities combined with other playing opportunities are being offered so that local football development priorities can be achieved.

The focus for the new pitch is to grow participation in the local area and so we are keen to hear from lapsed or new players who are looking to get playing. Please visit www.activedorset.org/slades-park or contact sladespark@activedorset.org for further information and booking enquiries.