Need for more 3G football pitches highlighted

Jersey FA said the island needs more 3G facilities

The need for more 3G football pitches in Jersey has been highlighted in a new report.

The report published by the Football Foundation, which follows discussions with local clubs, Jersey Sport and the government, has found the island has a shortfall of four full-size 3G artificial surfaces.

It said that, with about 250 teams and more than 3,500 players, the demand for modern, all-weather facilities had reached a tipping point.

Tim Pryor, Jersey FA's chief executive officer, said that, without the right infrastructure, the island faced "the real prospect of people in the community being denied the opportunity to participate".

Jersey FA said grassroots football participation was on the rise and weather-related postponements and cancellations continued to impact the local community.

It added: "3G pitches support consistent access for players of all ages and levels."

Last year, a campaigner called for no more 3G pitches to be installed on the island due to health and environmental concerns.

Mr Pryor said clubs were struggling book the current pitches due to high demand.

"It's a real positive that so many people want to participate in our game, but now we need to ensure the facilities are there to cope with demand," he added.

'A necessity'

The organisation said several potential sites for new pitches had been highlighted, including Le Rocquier, which the government previously confirmed was its preferred location for developing a 3G pitch.

It added it was looking into whether IJB at Maufant could be converted, as well as three other potential sites on the west of the island.

Jersey FA football development officer Andy McKay said: "3G pitches are a necessity for the development and longevity of football in Jersey.

"We need joined-up thinking across government, football, and the wider sport and community sector to get this done for the island."