A NEW 3G pitch at a Merthyr Tydfil school has been officially opened by a former Welsh international footballer.
Danny Gabbidon has opened the new facility which is located at Afon Tâf High School in the Troedyrhiw area of Merthyr Tydfil.
Almost half a million pounds has been spent on the creation of the new full-sized 3G by Cymru Football Foundation (CFF) with the backing of the Department of Media, Culture and Sport’s multi-sport grassroots facility programme and in collaboration with the council, the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund and Sport Wales.
The new facility aims to provide easy access for pupils of Afon Taf High School during the day, whilst also providing opportunities for male and female football out of school hours.
It takes the total number of CFF’s new or upgraded full-size 3Gs to 15 with more spend already planned for several sites across Wales.
Speaking at the opening of the facility, Danny Gabbidon said: “Facilities like these are vital for communities across Wales – seeing and hearing how this new 3G will benefit the school and local community is so refreshing and will serve for years to come. The Cymru Football Foundation is doing amazing work and long may it continue.”
Councillor Brent Carter, leader of Merthyr Tydfil Council said: “Two of our council priorities are to enhance our recreational spaces and develop key sports pitches.
“The development of the Afon Taf 3G not only helps meet the needs of the local community but is also the cornerstone facility of what is now a fantastic multi-purpose provision, that can cater for a range of sports and users alike.”
Director at Cymru Football Foundation, Aled Lewis, said: “The Cymru Football Foundation is committed to investing in facilities that inspire communities. This new facility in Merthyr will enable more players to play, improve the experiences of current players and act as a hub for sport in the local community.
“A huge thank you to our partners, UK Government and both Merthyr Tydfil CBC and Sport Wales in supporting the development of such a high-quality facility. Through the power of collaboration, we’re making huge strides in improving football facilities in Wales on and off the pitch.”
The CFF supports the development of football through investment and guidance as part of the Football Association of Wales’ (FAW) commitment to develop “inspirational fit-for-future” football facilities to improve and grow Welsh football on and off the pitch.
Since February 2022, the CFF has spent over £17 million in supporting facilities across the country.
