Council continues to back grass roots sport with new cricket pitch investment

The cricket pitch at Hanley Park is set to be refurbished as part of the city council’s commitment to improving outdoor sports facilities.

The artificial cricket wicket will be upgraded - with a brand new surface and pitch - helping to improve the quality of cricket provision in Stoke-on-Trent and encouraging more people to take up the sport.

The work is being carried out thanks to a £12,000 grant from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and support from Staffordshire Cricket, the local county cricket board.

Work will take place from Wednesday 2 July to Friday 4 July. The pitch will be out of use during this time.

Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Sports like cricket are great not only for our physical and mental health, but also for connecting with local residents and fostering a sense of community.

“That’s why it’s so important to invest in our sports facilities and make sure they remain fit for purpose - and I’m pleased we’re working with the ECB to help carry out this mission.

“I hope that by improving the cricket facilities in Hanley Park, we can continue to grow the game within the city.”

Staffordshire Cricket’s Development Director, Jason Britton commented: “Part of our focus in trying to grow the game is to facilitate more play alongside our strong traditional cricket club network.

“Stoke-on-Trent boasts a number of public cricket facilities and we’ve previously helped with the refurbishment of a non-turf pitch in Cobridge Park and we’re delighted to help bring the Hanley Park facility back to top standard. The city is a hotbed of cricket interest and talent and we look forward to the local community benefitting from the investment.”