NEW football facilities have opened in Ringwood following the completion of a £3.4 million project.

Ringwood Community Hub has opened its two-storey pavilion with changing rooms, offices and a club house.

A 3G Artificial Turf Pitch opened for football training in February 2023.

NFDC donated £535,000 towards the Ringwood Community Hub from developer contributions, and worked with Ringwood Town Council, and AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust, with support by the Football Foundation.

The overall project cost £3.4 million.

Cllr Jill Cleary, leader of the council, gave a speech at the opening of the pavilion. She said: “It is wonderful to be here, seeing these amazing facilities opened for the community.

"This has been several years in the making, and I am aware of the partnership work and effort that has been put in to deliver this facility.

“We have invested in this project as we can see the importance of this facility for the area.

"It will help to address the current need for pitches and help to increase the levels of activity in the area, as well as giving local residents facilities to be proud of.”

Cllr Dan Poole, portfolio holder for community, safety and wellbeing, said: “It's great to see the all the facilities now open.

"The pavilion, artificial pitch and the grass pitches are important assets to the local community and we want to see them supporting as many people as possible, to lead an active and healthy life.”

Phil King, chair of Ringwood Town FC, added: “The opening of this new building is a fantastic achievement and with the 3G pitch offers the community a wonderful facility for all to enjoy. Today, we’re in a blossoming partnership with AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust delivering football in the community in a shared facility fit for the future.

"I thank them, the Football Foundation and the other partners for their invaluable contribution, together with our enormous gratitude for the unwavering support of Chris Wilkins and the Town Council throughout the past six years.

"We now have an amazing environment in which to operate and continue to foster a community spirit. I can’t wait to see the incredible moments that will unfold here."