Preston Grasshoppers has been chosen by the RFU as one of six pilot sites for the installation of an Artificial Grass Pitch (AGP) at the expense of the RFU. One club in each region has been selected and we are the one chosen for the North.
In time the RFU will be financing 100 such pitches and we are indeed privileged to be one of the first six. At the same time it gives us an opportunity to shape the way the project is managed.
The details of the proposal are still being discussed but the bones of it are that the RFU wish it to replace the 1st team pitch and that they should be granted a 30 year lease of that area with the Hoppers having peak time priority use. The amount of that use is to be discussed. The remainder of the time will be for development of rugby in the area and some commercial use to cover the running costs of maintaining and replacing the surface.
The pitch will be similar to those installed at Newcastle Falcons and Saracens (pictured above).
We have been chosen because we are seen to be successful in the numbers who play both at senior and junior levels. Our location also helps.
The RFU policy is to try to increase participation in the game. Subject to our agreeing the details we see it as a great opportunity for the club.
We will be arranging a meeting for members as soon as we have more details of the proposal. In the meantime if you have any observations please speak with a member of the management committee or email info@pgrfc.co.uk.
