Southwell Town Council backs proposals for new all weather 3G sports pitch at Centenary Sports Ground (Brinkley) by Southwell City Football Club, Fa and Newark and Sherwood District Council

A council has given its backing to proposed plans to create a more accessible and adaptive community sports facility.

As the land owners, Southwell Town Council have leaned into the idea of installing a new 3G all weather pitch at the Centenary Sports Ground (Brinkley), estimated to cost between £1.6m to £1.8m.

The 3G pitch will replace one of the three existing pitches on site — which are suitable for football and rugby, but not other sports such as hockey.

The ground is home to Southwell City Football Club, which currently has 40 junior teams and 5 adult teams, with all 11-a-side teams training at Brinkley.

After receiving the go ahead from the council, the planning process can now take place, with the club, the FA, and Newark and Sherwood District Council working on the details.

Details of the proposal — including clarification on the potential need for additional parking — will come back to the town council when planning permission is sought.

The football club must submit their application by October 31 of this year, before it goes to the board on January 29, 2026 and is finalised by March 20, 2026.

The build would be expected to last approximately four months, with a potential opening date of September 2026.

It is estimated the cost will be £1.6m to £1.8m — Newark and Sherwood District Council will make a financial contribution, and the football club will work on securing additional funds.

Vice-chairman of the town environment committee, Karen Roberts, said: “[The club] have done a great job with the site, putting in supporter stands, a club house and lighting.

“Southwell Town Council will have no liability for the ongoing maintenance of the proposed pitch.”

She added: “I would say there are still some hurdles to jump — issue with parking to be addressed, funding to be found, and community engagement to be initiated.

“But I am cautiously optimistic that it will be a great asset.”

Currently, the pitches are also not accessible for many disabled groups from the Southwell area.

The introduction of a new 3G pitch would be beneficial for individuals with disabilities — in particular wheelchair users — who would no longer need to travel out of the area to take part in their chosen sports.

Council chairman, Peter Harris, said: “It’s wonderful news, and as the landlords we have given our support.

“The plans have been really welcomed by both the town council and the football club, and are a significant investment in sport in our town.

“We have a lot of boys, girls, and disabled groups that needs accessible facilities.

“This is an all weather pitch that can be used all year around and will be available for other groups to use as well.”

Some concern was raised about the use of micro plastics by Southwell Town Councillors who requested that natural alternatives be trialled.

Subsequently it was confirmed that the FA, Football Foundation, and Newark and Sherwood District Council will work closely with the football club to trial and explore other material options within the given time scales.

The 3G pitch proposals were supported by all town councillors in attendance, with one abstention.