A major investment is set to revitalise sporting opportunities at Bryntirion Comprehensive School in Bridgend, following confirmation that more than £400,000 has been secured for the restoration and upgrade of its artificial sports pitch. Bridgend County Borough Council announced that it has successfully bid for funding from the Cymru Football Foundation, part of the Football Association of Wales (FAW), with additional support being sought from Sport Wales.
At a cabinet meeting held earlier this week, councillors discussed plans to replace the school’s ageing 2G pitch, which has been described as reaching the end of its usable lifespan. The proposed redevelopment will transform the existing facility into a modern 3G pitch, bringing it in line with contemporary standards and better able to serve both the school and the wider community.
Central to the proposal is the installation of a full-sized 3G playing surface, which utilises more advanced synthetic materials and is suitable for year-round use, in contrast to older styles of artificial turf. Alongside the new pitch, the project includes plans for upgraded perimeter fencing, new cross-field goals, improved floodlighting, and a dedicated spectator area with a safe walkway—ensuring accessibility and comfort for all users.
Currently, the school’s sports pitch is used for students’ physical education lessons during school hours, as well as by local sports teams and community groups in the evenings and at weekends. However, council documents noted that the deteriorating condition of the surface has resulted in reduced uptake outside of the school day, a problem officials hope to resolve through this investment.
Speaking at the meeting, council staff highlighted significant local interest in the new facility, suggesting multiple community groups have already expressed a desire to make use of the 3G pitch if the upgrades proceed as planned. The management of the pitch will continue to be overseen by the school as part of a community asset transfer programme, with the council entering into a formal agreement to share responsibility for the ongoing upkeep and maintenance of the site.
The council report emphasised the importance of the new pitch in meeting an increased demand for high-quality, all-weather sports facilities across the Bridgend area—particularly during the winter months, when grass pitches can often become unplayable. Notably, the report also highlighted the role the new facility could play in addressing social inequality, by ensuring that those in nearby areas facing deprivation have access to quality sports infrastructure and programmes.
“We’re not just replacing a pitch here, we’re building pride, resilience, and opportunity through sport,” remarked Councillor Eugene Caparros, representing Brackla East and Coychurch Lower. He went on to say, “This investment ensures our young people have access to top-class sports facilities that match their ambition. It’s a sign of our commitment to health and well-being, front and centre where it matters most—in our schools.”
Council Leader John Spanswick also welcomed the announcement, expressing confidence that the upgraded facility would be well-used and much appreciated once complete. He stressed the significance of modern sports infrastructure to both the school and the broader Bridgend community.
In total, the full cost of the redevelopment is projected to be approximately £560,000. This sum is expected to be covered by a £400,000 contribution from the Cymru Football Foundation, with an additional £159,768 bid currently under consideration by Sport Wales, potentially closing the remaining funding gap.
This initiative reflects a broader trend across Wales and the UK, where schools and local authorities are increasingly recognising the positive impact that accessible, quality sports facilities can have on young people’s physical health, confidence and community cohesion. If approved and completed as planned, the Bryntirion Comprehensive School 3G pitch could serve as a leading example of such investment in the region, opening up new opportunities for students and residents alike.
While the project is still progressing through its final stages and subject to completion of funding arrangements, there is a strong sense of optimism among council members and local residents. Many hope it will boost sporting engagement, foster new talent, and contribute positively to the health and wellbeing of the community for years to come.