Barnwood Utd AFC to manage Coopers Edge sports hub
Following a tendering process overseen by Tewkesbury Borough Council, the management of the Coopers Edge sports hub has been entrusted to Barnwood Utd AFC.
This highly anticipated, state-of-the-art facility, built by housing developer Vistry Group, is set to become the centre of sporting activity for the community in Coopers Edge.
The hub will feature two playing pitches, an all-weather multi-use games area boasting floodlighting capabilities and an artificial pitch, providing opportunities for year-round sporting activities, as well as a well-appointed pavilion.
The facilities have been designed to cater for a wide range of sporting pursuits, including football, rugby and netball. From competitive matches to casual games, the sports hub is equipped to accommodate athletes of all skill levels and age groups.
Tewkesbury Borough Council’s lead member for Housing, Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Alex Hegenbarth, said: “We are looking forward to working with Barnwood Utd to develop sport and activity in the area. This outstanding facility will not only serve to promote healthy lifestyles, but will also strengthen the community and foster a sense of belonging.
“The club has demonstrated impressive plans to encourage the local community to be active and to inspire residents to use the new hub – and we are excited to work alongside them to deliver their vision.”
Barnwood Utd AFC’s Chairperson, Phil Powell, said: “I’m so proud and excited by this partnership with Tewkesbury Borough Council and the opportunities it brings. With our aligned objectives and mutual understanding of the benefits of diverse health and wellness programmes, we are honoured the council has entrusted these facilities into our care.
“I’m pleased to say Coopers Edge is very familiar to us and has been the primary focus of our recent club development. Over the last 12 months we have provided free football coaching to Coopers Edge School and subsequently this season we have brought grassroots football to Coopers Edge for the first time ever, hiring the school playing field for youth matches.
“Almost half of our youth players attended Coopers Edge School and/or live in the area. We also have Coopers Edge residents in key roles across our governance structure and key personnel live just yards from the facility. The brand-new facilities underpin our strategic targets which will bring volunteering opportunities and a range of activities to Coopers Edge.
“We can’t wait to introduce ourselves properly.”
