Work on new all-weather pitch about to start at school

Work to build a new floodlit all-weather sports pitch in Pontarddulais is set to begin within weeks.

Swansea Council’s Cabinet has approved revised funding for the project that will see the sports facility that includes a multi-use games area sited at the town’s comprehensive school.

It will be used by pupils during school hours and will be made available to the wider community in the evenings and at weekends.

Local grassroots sports clubs have already expressed interest in using the pitch.

Pontarddulais Comprehensive School headteacher Gareth Rees said: “We are very excited that work is about to start on this much needed development as our school has a strong focus on community, extra-curricular and sports programmes.

“It is important that we provide the best facilities we can for our pupils. All children deserve the best standard of education possible and this project will help achieve that.

“I’m very grateful to the council and ward members for their support and our pupils are looking forward to it opening.”

Swansea Council is funding the scheme with additional contributions from the ward members’ allowances.

The project has been delayed as drainage issues have been addressed.

Additional costs are being covered by a Welsh Government funded Community Focussed Schools Grant designed to safely adapt and effectively open schools outside traditional hours.

The council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Learning, Robert Smith, said: “I’m really pleased that we have now got to the point that work can begin.

“This will bring a big boost to a popular school as well as grassroots sport in Pontarddulais. It will also be a lasting legacy for many years to come as there are no similar facilities in the town.”

The work is being carried out by South Wales Sports Grounds with the project being overseen by Swansea Council Corporate Building Services and is expected to be completed by Spring 2023.