AS the new sporting season begins, Carmarthenshire is set to see a significant upgrade to its sports facilities, thanks to an investment of over £500,000 from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). This funding aims to provide a substantial boost to local teams and sports enthusiasts across the county.

Major Developments

One of the most significant projects includes the development of a new 3G sports pitch at Llandovery Rugby Football Club. This community-led initiative will be accessible to local sports clubs and schools, enhancing the sporting experience for many. Additional improvements to the site will feature LED floodlighting, a spectator viewing area, and new pathways surrounding the pitch. Further details about this development can be found on the council’s website.

Actif Communities Officers are on hand to support sports clubs and volunteers in Carmarthenshire. Their assistance includes guidance on grants and finance, marketing and promotion, recruiting new members, and general management. Clubs looking to benefit from this support are encouraged to visit the Actif Sport and Leisure website for more information.

Funding for Community Sports

Sport Wales is playing a crucial role in distributing funding to community clubs, volunteers, and athletes across Carmarthenshire. Their specialist grants team is available to provide information and support on various funding needs, including setting up new teams, upgrading facilities, and supporting individual athletes.

Council Support and Statement

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture and Tourism, Councillor Hazel Evans, praised the investment, stating:

“Investment into our county’s sports clubs is a great way to encourage the community to lead healthier and more active lives by participating in club sports. This funding means the Council can carry out necessary work and improve the experience of users and spectators at Carmarthenshire’s sporting venues.”

Other Funded Projects in Carmarthenshire

The UKSPF is also supporting numerous other sports facilities across the county, with several projects already underway:

• Carmarthen Town Football Club: Installation of new LED floodlights, a PA system, and solar panels. Floodlight Renewal Scheme 2023 (gov.wales)
• Cwmaman United: This project includes LED lighting, solar panel updates to changing rooms, the development of a mini pitch, and the planting of 100 trees. Parc Grenig: Pathway to Sustainability (gov.wales)
• Felinfoel RFC: Installation of LED bulbs and new electrical wiring on the floodlights at King George V playing fields. Felinfoel RFC Floodlights (gov.wales)
• Tumble RFC: A professional team has been appointed to oversee the development of a new community facility to complement existing provisions. Development of new Community Facility (gov.wales)
• Glynhir Golf Club: Funding has enabled the creation of a new six-hole circuit and practice area, with improved access for walkers, buggies, and wheelchair users. Glynhir Circuit & Participation Project (gov.wales)
• Clwb Rygbi Pontiets Ltd: Improved drainage of the main pitch and installation of new LED floodlights to boost player numbers among the mini and junior sections. Clwb Rygbi Pontiets Ltd (gov.wales)
• Clwb Rygbi Brynaman: New changing room facilities will include lockers, benches, showers, lighting, and a ventilation system. Refurbishment of the current Community Changing Rooms (gov.wales)
• Parc Stephens Community Association: Support for phase 1 of improvements, including a feasibility study on new sporting facilities with a floodlit training facility on the tennis courts. Parc Stephens Community Association (gov.wales)
• Penybanc Welfare Association: Installation of new LED floodlights to enhance the club and increase the number of young people using the facility. Pen Y Banc Welfare Association (gov.wales)
• Pontyberem Rugby Football Club: New floodlights will enhance the club’s facilities, allowing for more evening matches. Pontyberem RFC Floodlights (gov.wales)
• Llannon Community Council: Funding a feasibility study for improvements at Cross Hands Park, considering new changing rooms, shower facilities, a natural turf pitch, and a community space. Cross Hands Park Redevelopment – Feasibility Study and Masterplan (gov.wales)
• Canolfan Carwyn: A new community gym has been established to support the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of the community. Community Well-Being Programme (gov.wales)

This wave of investment and development signifies a major step forward for sports facilities in Carmarthenshire, with the promise of a more vibrant and active community.