Thorn Athletic Sports Academy has moved a step closer to building a new full-size floodlit artificial pitch after announcing that the tender process to appoint a contractor is now underway.
The update follows planning permission being granted by Renfrewshire Council on 18th June for the redevelopment of the club’s sports facility at Greenend Avenue, Johnstone.
The approved plans include a full-size artificial pitch, floodlights, a spectator area, additional car parking, associated fencing and other works. Planning permission was granted subject to conditions.
Announcing the latest milestone, Thorn Athletic Sports Academy said: “We are delighted to confirm that planning permission has now been granted by Renfrewshire Council for the installation of a full-size, floodlit, artificial pitch with additional car parking at Thorn Athletic Sports Academy in Johnstone.
“The tender process is now underway to appoint a contractor to deliver the project.
“It’s another important milestone for the organisation and takes us a step closer to our dream of using sport to transform the area around us, positively impact on people’s lives and tackle inequality in our community.”
An operational management plan submitted with the planning application says the new facility is intended to improve community access to modern sports facilities, provide year-round training and matches, and support football across all age groups.
The plan also proposes priority access for schools during weekdays, community bookings in the evenings and at weekends, and free community play sessions on Saturday and Sunday evenings. It also includes continued Football Fun & Food programmes during school holidays for local children and young people.
Headline photo: An artist’s impression of the proposed new sports facilities at Thorn Athletic Sports Academy in Johnstone