AN ambitious project to replace dilapidated changing facilities in Hagley have received another funding boost.

The Veolia Environmental Trust have awarded West Hagley Football Club more than £20,000 of cash towards the village’s new state-of-the-art ‘pavilion’ on Hagley Playing Fields.

Under the current plans, the existing building will be demolished and replaced with the new facility, which will provide modern changing rooms for the football club as well as the other activities taking place on the fields.

The £21,548 grant will help the building meet the required standards insisted upon by Worcestershire FA, the community users and the football club itself, who will use the base to encourage people of all ages and both sexes to take part in sport.

Being sustainable, as well as energy and water efficient, the pavilion will include disabled toilets, hot showers, changing facilities, catering facilities and storage.

John Malanaphy, club chairman, said: “The new facility and landscaped frontage will transform the park. It is designed to complement the surrounding area and will be energy and water efficient and environmentally friendly.

“This grant is a real boost for us and it means we are step closer to achieving our ambitions.”

Paul Taylor, executive director of The Veolia Environmental Trust, added: “The football club needs to be congratulated on securing this grant in a very competitive environment.

“It is clear that the new pavilion will make a real difference to the club and the playing fields and I look forward to hearing about work starting.”