A new floodlit all-weather pitch that will bring huge benefits to pupils and the wider community in Pontarddulais is now complete.
More than £450,000 has been invested in creating the sports facility that includes a multi-use games area at the town’s comprehensive school.
It is being used by pupils during school hours and is being made available to the wider community in the evenings and at weekends.
Swansea Council Leader Rob Stewart was joined by cabinet colleagues, local members, school governors, senior officers and school pupils for the official opening this week.
Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson, Chair of Sport Wales, recorded a video message congratulating all involved which was played at the opening.
Pontarddulais Comprehensive headteacher Gareth Rees said it would transform PE lessons as it is suitable for football, hockey, rounders and many other inclusive sports and activities.
Mr Rees said: “There is also a real appetite from our pupils for sporting and physical activities during their break and lunch times and this facility will provide a high-quality surface to play on.
“Pupils are allowed to wear suitable trainers to school that can be used on this pitch, so they will not have to change footwear between lessons and break or lunch; simply walk on and play.
“The shelters and spectator area also allow pupils to watch their friends in a relaxed and expansive environment.
“We have already been contacted with many requests to lease out the facility out of school hours so the demand is certainly palpable within the community.
“Floodlights mean that the facility can be open late into the evening, all year round, as well as on weekends.
“This high-quality all-weather pitch really will enhance the quality of life and support the wellbeing of so many that live in the local and wider community.”
The pitch has been funded by Swansea Council with contributions from the ward members and the Welsh Government’s Community Focused Schools Grant to safely adapt and effectively open schools outside traditional hours.
Cllr Stewart said the pitch was part of a £20m investment in improved sports and play facilities across Swansea.
He added: “I’m thrilled that we have been able to deliver this much needed development for Pontarddulais Comprehensive School and the wider community.
“Swansea Council is committed to providing the best facilities we can for our pupils in all our schools.
Cabinet Member for Education and Learning, Robert Smith, added: “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.”
