Stowmarket Town Football Club enhances Greens Meadow thanks to ‘crucial’ £25,000 grant from Stowmarket Town Council

A town football club has enhanced its stadium thanks to a £25,000 grant.

Stowmarket Town Football Club was awarded the funding from the town council’s Stowmarket Sports Facilities Fund to boost Greens Meadow, both for players and spectators.

With the funding, the club was able to replace its deteriorating wooden fencing around its pitch, which had suffered from rotting posts, with a new maintenance-free metal fencing that complies with current ground grading standards.

The upgrade has enhanced safety and aesthetics at Greens Meadow, as well as giving the club the opportunity to expand spectator space around the pitch.

Kevin Blundell, chairman of Stowmarket Town FC, said: “We are incredibly thankful to Stowmarket Town Council and their Stowmarket Sports Facilities Fund.

“This grant has been crucial for maintaining our ground grading and advancing our facilities.

“The enhancements made possible through this funding now enable us to plan further improvements, such as wheelchair-friendly pathways and a disability toilet in the clubhouse.”

The improvements have given the club a foundation for future developments such as those mentioned by Mr Blundell and a potential new stand behind the goal.

The Stowmarket Sports Facilities Fund was launched in 2023 as part of a £100,000 pledge by the town council aimed at enhancing local facilities.

Terrence Carter, Mayor or Stowmarket, said: “Stowmarket Town Council is proud to support Stowmarket Football Club with this grant.

“The club is a vital part of our community, providing valuable opportunities for local residents to socialise and engage in sport.

“This investment ensures the club can continue to offer excellent facilities and support its ongoing development.”

The project at Greens Meadow was the first successful development funded by the initiative.