Work on Coalville Town's new 3G pitch is due to start early in the new year - and should be completed by April.

The club announced in October that it had secured funding for the all-weather grass pitch.

Now, work is set to begin on January 8, with a target date for completion of April 19.

The project has been four years in the planning and, when finished, is dedsigned to be a community hub.

Coalville Town had already raised money for the pitch, but Football Foundation funding of £850,000 means that the £1.1million scheme can become reality in 2024. 

Wayne McDermott, Coalville Town Youth FC Trustee and secretary, said: "The feedback from the Football Foundation on the application submitted by the club led to representatives being invited to speak and explain how we engaged with others to offer a sustainable and inclusive project which will benefit so many people here in North West Leicestershire - and move further from the traditional 'football only' offering.

"Youth football at Coalville Town FC will celebrate its 25th year anniversary with the opening of the new facility, which will transform the club, who are already one of the largest in Leicestershire, to one of those who can also boast of premier facilities to match the number of teams at the club - something our members deserve and are looking forward to."

Plans for the new 3G facility at Coalville. Image: Coalville Town FC

The pitch will not only be used by Coalville Town FC but by other clubs and organisations - as well as the benefit of 900 footballers who play for the club. 

Coalville Town are also looking to secure a football and education programme which will run from the club.

Other activities at the club include girls and boys Academy training run by independent providers, walking football, teenage 'Just Play' sessions, men's and women's wellbeing sessions, Veteran's mini-soccer leagues and Sunday night mini-leagues. 

The increased activity at the ground is predicted to lead to several employment opportunities.

Anyone interested in using the facility can contact the club by email at [email protected].

The club have also thanked the Football Foundation, The FA, Leicestershire & Rutland County FA, North West Leicestershire District Council and local councillors John Geary, Russell Johnson, Craig Smith and Andrew Woodman for their support.

Wayne added: "It's been refreshing to receive support from both the Labour Party and Conservative Party who have both helped us make this dream become a reality - setting aside political gain and working for the people of Coalville and further afield by working together."