THE MP for Aberconwy, Robin Millar, has welcomed the announcement by the UK Government that an additional £12.6million will be invested into community football pitches in Wales by 2025.

This is in addition to existing funding commitments that has already seen nearby Bangor University’s Treborth Playing Fields benefit from £33,000 of investment to upgrade their pavilion and changing rooms.

The funding announcement is part of the UK Government’s ongoing commitment to delivering the grassroots football facilities every community needs and to levelling up access to high quality pitches.

Mr Millar said: “Levelling Up and stronger communities are key to our plan for Aberconwy.

“As a keen footballer myself, and recognising the invaluable role of community football clubs and the range of health and other wellbeing benefits that playing football brings, I have campaigned to ensure that this further investment is made available.

"I will now write to the FAW about this new funding and invite the chief executive to come to Llandudno and see for himself the enthusiasm that exists for the game at the grassroots here.

“These are not just football clubs – they are vibrant communities pulsing with life.

“That is why they are thriving and why the facilities are far more than just a place to play football.

“Sadly, that enthusiasm for the game we have here is not matched by the availability of facilities or their condition.

“After all, much-loved means well-used.”

Rod Williams, on behalf of the board of directors of Llandudno Football Club said: "Llandudno Football Club was one of the first clubs in Wales to see a 3G pitch installed.

“Over its lifetime thousands of grassroots games and training sessions have been completed, including our own summer camps and academy programmes drawing hundreds of young footballers each year to enjoy in the beautiful game.

"Our pitch has also been the home to numerous successful grassroots teams, including the charity group North Wales Dragons, the Llandudno Albion and also the Military Minds team which seeks to support veterans through the medium of football and sport.

"We are also delighted to have been able to offer inclusive football, including pan-disability sessions and walking football.

“Ensuring that everyone, irrespective of their age or ability, is able to share in the social, physical and mental health benefits that football can offer.

"It remains our objective to ensure that a new 3G pitch remains open and accessible to our community and football enthusiasts across Aberconwy and North Wales.

“Any support in this mission will be greatly welcomed and appreciated!"

In Wales the Football Association of Wales will invite and select projects across a range of facility types - from the creation or upgrade of changing rooms, grass pitches and 3G football turf pitches and pavilions, to floodlights, fencing and improved disabled access.

Grassroots football clubs, local authorities and schools with a relevant project that could benefit from this investment in the next two financial years are encouraged to contact the FAW.