Agenda Document Pack - Community Asset Transfer Review Appeals Panel - 24/02/2025
Renfrewshire Council · 24 February 2025
Back to Community Asset Transfer Review Appeals Panel — 24 February 2025 and its agenda
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20/02/2025 Notice of Meeting and Agenda Community Asset Transfer Review Appeals Panel Date Time Venue Monday, 24 February 2025 10:00 Microsoft Teams Meeting, Membership Councillor Stephen Burns (Convener): Councillor Fiona Airlie-Nicolson: Councillor Chris Gilmour: Councillor Gillian Graham: Councillor Neill Graham: Councillor Bruce MacFarlane: Councillor Emma Rodden: Councillor Andy Steel: Recording of Meeting This meeting will be recorded for subsequent broadcast via the Council's internet site. If you have any queries regarding this please contact committee services on democratic- services@renfrewshire.gov.uk To find the recording please follow the link which will be attached to this agenda once the meeting has concluded. Further Information - online meetings only This meeting is on-line only but is a meeting which is open to members of the public by prior arrangement. A copy of the agenda and reports for this meeting will be available for inspection prior to the meeting at the Customer Service Centre, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley and online at http://renfrewshire.cmis.uk.com/renfrewshire/CouncilandBoards.aspx For further information, please email democratic-services@renfrewshire.gov.uk MARK CONAGHAN Head of Corporate Governance Page 1 of 170
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20/02/2025 Items of business Apologies Apologies from members. Declarations of Interest and Transparency Statements Members are asked to declare an interest or make a transparency statement in any item(s) on the agenda and to provide a brief explanation of the nature of the interest or the transparency statement. 1 Review Request: lease of Renfrew Cricket Pitch to Renfrew Cricket Club Report by the Director of Finance & Resources. 3 - 170 Page 2 of 170
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To: Community Asset Transfer Review Appeals Panel On: 24 February 2025 Report by: Director of Finance and Resources Heading: Review Request: lease of Renfrew Cricket Pitch to Renfrew Cricket Club 1. Summary 1.1 The purpose of this report is to ask the Community Asset Transfer Review Appeals Panel to consider a review request submitted in respect of a Community Asset Transfer (CAT) application for the lease of Renfrew Cricket Pitch to Renfrew Cricket Club SCIO under Part 5 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 which was refused in November 2024. 2. Recommendation 2.1 Note the terms of the review request and decide whether further procedure is required in the form of written representations and/or a hearing; and 2.2 If no further procedure is required, determine the review. 3. Background 3.1 Part 5 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 gives an organisation which meets the statutory criteria to be a “community transfer body” the right to apply to take over property owned by the Council. These applications are known as Asset Transfer Requests. 3.2 Renfrew Cricket Club made an Asset Transfer Request for a 30-year lease of Renfrew Cricket Pitch, Haining Road, Renfrew PA4 0AN. A copy of the report which was submitted to the CAT Sub-committee meeting, containing the original application, has been attached at Appendix 1 to this report. Item 1 Page 3 of 170
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3.3 The request was dealt with in terms of the Council’s procedure and a decision was taken at the meeting of the Community Asset Transfer Sub- committee held on 6 November 2024 to refuse the application on the grounds that there were obligations imposed on the authority that prevent, restrict or otherwise affect its ability to agree to the request. The obligations related to education provision and there was concern that the land on which Renfrew Cricket Ground is located may be required by the Council in the future should the Renfrew school estate be required to be extended or replaced and that there is not considered to be alternative land available within the immediate locale. A copy of the Decision Notice is attached at Appendix 2 to this report. 3.4 In terms of the relevant legislation, an applicant whose request is refused is entitled to a review of that decision. A review request, which met the requirements of the legislation, was submitted by Renfrew Cricket Club on 9 December 2024. A copy of the review request and supporting documentation has been attached at Appendix 3 to this report. 3.5 In the first instance, the Appeal Panel is required to decide whether it requires further information to make its decision. The content of the papers at this preliminary stage is determined by Regulations; but, should Panel consider that further written information is required, for example from the applicants and/ or the Estates Team, it may ask for these to be provided. It may also decide to fix a hearing. If further procedure is required, the Panel should be clear as to which specific questions it wishes to be addressed on via that procedure and who will be responsible for providing any written information requested. 3.6 Members are asked to note that Renfrew Cricket Club have intimated that they would like the opportunity to address the Panel at a hearing. 3.7 If further procedure is required, the Panel will adjourn to allow such steps as are necessary to take place and re-convene to consider the review further thereafter. 3.8 The Council must reach a decision on the review within six months of the date of receipt of the request for a review. The request for review was received on 9 December 2024, which means that the deadline for deciding the review is 9 June 2025. 3.9 When determining the review request the panel have three options available in terms of the decision which was taken by the Community Asset Transfer Sub-committee to refuse the application. These are to: (a) confirm its decision; (b) modify its decision, or any part of its decision (including any terms and conditions specified in the decision notice to which the asset transfer request relates); or (c) substitute a different decision for its decision. Page 4 of 170
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4. Implications of the Report 1. Financial – The Community Asset Transfer request seeks to lease the site at a discounted price of £1.00 per annum. Lease of the asset will generate savings in relation to maintenance of the site. 2. HR & Organisational Development – none 3. Community/Council Planning - The Community Assert Transfer Request supports the wellness and resilience of our citizens and communities. 4. Legal (a) The CAT request and CTB comply with the requirements of Part 5 of The Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015. (b) If approved, a formal offer from the CTB must be received within 6 months of decision to approve and lease concluded within 6 months of a formal offer being submitted by the Club. 5. Property/Assets – concerns the long-term lease of asset reference 123121137. 6. Information Technology - none. 7. Equality & Human Rights The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website 8. Health & Safety - none 9. Procurement – not applicable 10. Risk - none. 11. Privacy Impact – not applicable 12. Climate Risk – not applicable 13. Children’s Rights - This report does not cover a new policy, function or strategy nor a substantive change to an existing policy, function or strategy which will have an impact on children’s rights. If approved, the asset transfer requests supports Article 31 of the Convention (rest, play, culture and arts) Page 5 of 170
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14. Cosla Policy Position – not applicable. Author: Euan Gray, Senior Committee Services Officer Tel: 0141 487 1099 Email: euan.gray@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 6 of 170
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2 ___________________________________________________________________ To: Infrastructure, Land & Environment Policy Board Community Asset Transfer Subcommittee On: 6 November 2024 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Community Asset Transfer Request – Renfrew Cricket Pitch, Haining Road, Renfrew PA4 0AN ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1. The purpose of this report is to ask the Community Asset Transfer (CAT) Subcommittee to consider the lease of Renfrew Cricket Pitch Renfrew Cricket Club SCIO under Part 5 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 (the Act). 2. Recommendations 2.1. It is recommended that the CAT Subcommittee:- 2.2. Consider the Community Asset Transfer request, attached; and 2.3. Refuse the lease of the asset on the basis that that there are obligations imposed on the authority, that prevent, restrict or otherwise affect its ability to agree to the request. (NB. Section 82 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 regarding asset transfer requests: decisions, is appended to this report). 3. Background 3.1. Part 5 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 provides the right for community bodies to request outright ownership, short or long term lease or other rights over any land or property owned or leased by the Council. Appendix 1 Page 7 of 170
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3 3.2. The Act requires local authorities to assess requests transparently against a specified list of criteria, and to agree the request unless there are reasonable grounds for refusal. 3.3. The CAT Officer Panel met to consider this request on the 15th of October 2024. 3.4. Concern was raised that the land on which Renfrew Cricket Ground is located may be required by the Council in the future should the Renfrew school estate be required to be extended or replaced and that there is not considered to be alternative land available within the immediate locale. 3.5. In accordance with the revised Scheme of Delegation (September 2022), the Panel agreed to recommend the request be refused by the CAT Subcommittee on the grounds that there are obligations imposed on the authority, that prevent, restrict or otherwise affect its ability to agree to the request. 3.6. The Board may choose to uphold the recommendation of the Panel or may choose an alternative outcome, namely, (i) to approve the transfer request as there are no reasonable grounds for refusal. 4. Asset: Renfrew Cricket Pitch, Haining Road, Renfrew PA4 0AN 4.1. The asset requested is all of the cricket field located to the north east of the main KGV Playing Fields and bounded by the carpark and pavilion to the north, Renfrew High School to the west, housing to the east and part of the KGV Playing Fields to the south. The whole site extends to some 22,791 sqm (5.6 acres) or thereby shown as hatched on the attached site plan E2920. 4.2. The property is assumed to be owned by Renfrewshire Council. Created as a result of one of two extensions to the KGV Playing Fields, the area straddles two titles. 4.3. A title report prepared by outside solicitors at the time of the transfer to Renfrewshire Leisure, OneRen’s predecessors, indicates that the area in question falls within the land conveyed by the Provost etc. of the Burgh of Renfrew in favour of the County Council of the County of Renfrew by disposition recorded 2 September 1974. 4.4. The cricket field is not thought to form part of the Fields in Trust covenant nor common good land and as such it is not anticipated that there are any legal burdens restricting or preventing the letting or disposal of the property. 4.5. A full title check in relation to any rights of way or access rights over the land, or any servitudes or wayleaves would need to be confirmed prior to letting, disposal or alternative use. 4.6. The site has not been valued separately from the full KGV Playing Fields. Page 8 of 170
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4 4.7. The site forms part of OneRen’s curtilage and would require to be renounced prior to any letting, disposal or alternative use. 5. CTB: Renfrew Cricket Club SCIO 5.1. Renfrew Cricket Club SCIO (RCC) is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated organisation registered with OSCR, registration no. SC0531117. As such, RCC qualifies as a Community Transfer Body (CTB) under Part 5 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 and is entitled to seek asset transfer under the Act. 5.2. Formed in 1904 under the name of Babcock Power & Wilcox, the club took on the name of Renfrew Cricket Club in 1988 as part of the newly formed Renfrew Sports and Athletics Club and moved to its current location in 2005 following the closure of the Moorcroft Outdoors Sports Club. 5.3. Previously a constituted sports club, RCC was granted status as a SCIO on 12 February 2024. Objects include: a) the advancement of public participation in the sport of Cricket, the provision of coaching and competition opportunities accessible to the whole community; b) advance, promote and encourage community participation in sporting activities; c) establish an inclusive and accessible community club that provides opportunities for the local people to engage in recreational activities that promotes health, well-being, and social interaction; d) advance education, through the provision of coaching, training through life-long learning in relation to sport, fitness, community and related skills to broaden the development of individual capabilities. 5.4. The organisation’s constitution has been checked and confirmed as compliant under the Act. Capacity to Deliver 5.5. RCC have occupied their current site since 2005 in an arrangement with OneRen. Members of the club and the current committee comprise a range of professionals and business people managing finance, accounts, property and business management. 6. Community Asset Transfer Request 6.1. The CAT request is for a 30-year lease of the asset. 6.2. Renfrew Cricket Club have offered to pay £1.00 per annum in rent as detailed in the attached CAT request form. Page 9 of 170
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5 6.3. RCC’s main purpose in requesting a long-term lease of the asset is to secure and protect the pitch for the game of cricket for the benefit of club members and the wider Renfrew community. 6.4. The club claim that the lack of a long-term lease hinders their access to funding and development opportunities while inadequate and outdated equipment affects the quality of training and matches and vandalism and misuse of the grounds compromise safety and the ability to maintain the facilities. They plan to invest in the site to enhance facilities and to promote community engagement through cricket. 6.5. Over time, the club plan to Install fencing around the playing fields to prevent vandalism and misuse, upgrade existing cricket equipment, including covers and nets, replace outdated machinery and equipment for ground maintenance and construct a clubhouse with two dressing rooms, a kitchen, and a meeting/function area. Details of all planned developments, phasing and funding of these is contained in the attached business plan. 6.6. Club plan to further develop their existing partnerships with local schools and with community groups to introduce under-represented groups to the game of cricket and to use the facilities for games and events. 6.7. RCC will have full responsibility for the ground maintenance and will share responsibility for the upkeep of the car park and access road. Community Engagement 6.8. RCC have discussed this proposal with local Elected Members, the Community Council and a range of other stakeholder groups including Active Communities and the sport’s governing and representative bodies. 6.9. In addition to these discussions, RCC held an open day which was attended by local neighbours and stakeholder groups. 6.10. Details of all consultations, letters of support, meeting minutes, and correspondence records, are included in the attached business plan. 6.11. The CAT request was validated on the 16th of September 2024 and published on the Council Website. Notices were placed on site and all close neighbours and interested parties, including Elected Members, OneRen and the Community Council, were informed directly in accordance with the CAT legislation. 6.12. No formal representations were received, however, the CAT Single Point of Contact received a single written objection raising concern that Renfrew’s school estate is of a good age and will need to be replaced in the future; and that the Cricket Grounds are the only piece of land in Renfrew that would accommodate a new high school/joint campus. Benefits 6.13. RCC have identified a range of benefits, including Page 10 of 170
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6 • Economic Development – increased revenue opportunities; increased visitor numbers through enhanced facilities and the potential for job creation; • Regeneration - improvements in local infrastructure; • Public Health & Wellbeing - modern facilities and equipment will encourage more people, especially youth, to participate in cricket, promoting physical fitness • Social Wellbeing – support for vulnerable groups including free memberships; • Environmental Wellbeing – through investing in the upkeep of the playing fields, the asset transfer will ensure the preservation of valuable green space for recreational use; • the club has a long history (since 1904) and preserving its operations maintains a valuable cultural and historical asset for the community. 6.14. In addition to their application, RCC have provided a full business plan detailing all benefits, community support and a phased plan for developing the cricket ground. Business Plan attached to this report. 6.15. Sustainability 6.16. RCC derives most of its income from membership fees which are envisaged to increase with the security and improvements to the pitch and other developments and are expected to meet all running costs. 6.17. The group have applied to the Local Area Fund to part convert a container into a scorebox and have also applied to the Sustainable Communities Fund to fence the cricket pitch and protect it from vandalism. 6.18. Full financial proposals including a funding strategy for future developments, are included in the attached Business Plan. Best Value 6.19. The asset transfer request meets the requirements for best value to the council in terms of a) Governance and Accountability – RCC is an established organisation with effective governance and accountability. b) Use of resources – RCC is able to reinvest its financial resources into the maintenance and management of the cricket pitch. c) Partnership and collaborative working – RCC works closely with Active Communities and provides opportunities for school pupils to learn and play the game of cricket. d) Working with Communities – RCC works closely with the local community and delivers a range of inclusive programmes including, free memberships and support for financially challenged individuals, Page 11 of 170
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7 engage with refugee communities, and provide programs for individuals with disabilities. 7. Subsidy Control 7.1. Discount conferred as a result of asset transfer constitutes as financial assistance under the Subsidy Control Act 2022 and must be included in the calculation for Minimal Financial Assistance (MFA). 7.2. Under the Act, financial assistance is only considered a subsidy where it satisfies all four ‘limbs’ of the test within the regime and where the recipient of the assistance is an enterprise (any person, or groups of persons under common control that is engaged in an economic activity, which means, offering goods and services on a market). 7.3. The lease of Renfrew Cricket Pitch to Renfrew Cricket Club does not satisfy one or more of the limbs, namely a) The financial assistance has, or is capable of having, an effect on competition or investment within the UK, or on trade or investment between the UK and another country or territory, or both. 7.4. Furthermore, Renfrew Cricket Club is not considered an enterprise under the Act in that it carries out non-economic activities with some ancillary economic activities, for example, sale of match day tickets and merchandise. 8. Proposed Terms and Conditions (if approved) 8.1. If a decision is made at Board to approve the application, then a full title check will be conducted with regards to any rights of way or access rights over the land, or any servitudes or wayleaves in addition to those mentioned at 4.3 and 4.4 above. 8.2. Lease of site to include access from the carpark on Dean Park Road. 8.3. Lease subject to OneRen renouncing the site from their lease. ___________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – Cat request seeks to lease the site at a discounted price of £1.00 per annum. Lease of the asset will generate savings in relation to maintenance of the site. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. 3. Community Planning • Our Renfrewshire is well – the CAT supports the wellness and resilience of our citizens and communities. Page 12 of 170
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8 4. Legal (a) The CAT request and CTB comply with the requirements of Part 5 of The Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015. (b) If approved, a formal offer from the CTB must be received within 6 months of decision to approve and lease concluded within 6 months of a formal offer being submitted by the Club. 5. Property/Assets – report concerns the long-term lease of asset reference 123121137. 6. Information Technology – None. 7. Equality & Human Rights (a) The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety – None. 9. Procurement – Not applicable. 10. Risk – None. 11. Privacy Impact – Not applicable. 12. Climate Risk – Not applicable. 13. Children’s Rights - This report does not cover a new policy, function or strategy nor a substantive change to an existing policy, function or strategy which will have an impact on children’s rights. If approved, the asset transfer requests supports Article 31 of the Convention (rest, play, culture and arts) 14. Cosla Policy Position - Not applicable _________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers (a) None. ________________________________________________________ Author: Sandra Inrig – 0141 487 1447 or 07974 071238. sandra.inrig@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 13 of 170
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9 Appendix 1 Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 Section 82 Asset Transfer Requests: Decisions 82 Asset transfer requests: decisions (1) This section applies where an asset transfer request is made by a Community transfer body to a relevant authority. (2) The authority must decide whether to agree to or refuse the request. (3) In reaching its decision, the authority must take into consideration the following matters— (a) the reasons for the request, (b) any other information provided in support of the request (whether such other information is contained in the request or otherwise provided), (c) whether agreeing to the request would be likely to promote or improve— (i) economic development, (ii) regeneration, (iii) public health, (iv) social wellbeing, or (v) environmental wellbeing, (d) whether agreeing to the request would be likely to reduce inequalities of outcome which result from socio-economic disadvantage, (e) any other benefits that might arise if the request were agreed to, (f) any benefits that might arise if the authority were to agree to or otherwise adopt an alternative proposal in respect of the land to which the request relates, (g) how such benefits would compare to any benefits such as are mentioned in paragraphs (c) and (e), (h) how any benefits such as are mentioned in paragraph (f) relate to other matters the authority considers relevant (including, in particular, the functions and purposes of the authority), Page 14 of 170
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10 (i) any obligations imposed on the authority, by or under any enactment or otherwise, that may prevent, restrict or otherwise affect its ability to agree to the request, and (j) such other matters (whether or not included in or arising out of the request) as the authority considers relevant. (4) The authority must exercise the function under subsection (2) in a manner which encourages equal opportunities and in particular the observance of the equal opportunity requirements. (5) The authority must agree to the request unless there are reasonable grounds for refusing it. (6) In subsection (3)(f), an “alternative proposal” includes— (a) another asset transfer request, (b) a proposal made by the authority or any other person. (7) The authority must, within the period mentioned in subsection (8), give notice (in this Part, a “decision notice”) to the community transfer body of— (a) its decision to agree to or refuse the request, and (b) the reasons for its decision. (8) The period is— (a) a period prescribed in regulations made by the Scottish Ministers, or (b) such longer period as may be agreed between the authority and the community transfer body. (9) The Scottish Ministers may by regulations make provision about— (a) the information (in addition to that required under this Part) that a decision notice is to contain, and (b) the manner in which a decision notice is to be given. Page 15 of 170
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1 COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT (SCOTLAND) ACT 2015 ASSET TRANSFER REQUEST FORM IMPORTANT NOTES: This is a standard asset transfer request form which can be used to make a request to Renfrewshire Council. For assets owned by other relevant authorities, please refer to that authority’s own website. You do not need to use this form to make an asset transfer request but using a form will help you to make sure you include all the required information. You should read the asset transfer guidance provided by the Scottish Government before making a request. All forms and guidance documents are available to download from the Council’s Website You are strongly advised to discuss your proposals with the Council before making an asset transfer request. You can do this by contacting the CAT Single Point of Contact at communityassettransfer@renfrewshire.gov.uk. When completed, this form must be sent to: - The CAT Single Point of Contact Regeneration and Place Renfrewshire Council Renfrewshire House Cotton Street Paisley PA1 1TT Or submitted by email to: communityassettransfer@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 16 of 170
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2 This is an asset transfer request made under Part 5 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 in relation to property owned, leased or managed by Renfrewshire Council. Section 1: Information about the community transfer body (CTB) making the request 1.1 Name of the CTB making the asset transfer request RENFREW CRICKET CLUB 1.2 CTB address. This should be the registered address (if you have one) or main correspondence address. Postal address: KGV PAVILLION, DEANPARK RD, PA4 OAN 1.3 Contact details. Please provide the name and contact address to which correspondence in relation to this asset transfer request should be sent. Contact name: SAJID MAJEED Postal address: Postcode: Email: Telephone: We agree that correspondence in relation to this asset transfer request may be sent by email to the email address given above. (Please tick to indicate agreement). You can ask the relevant authority to stop sending correspondence by email, or change the email address, by telling them at any time, as long as 5 working days’ notice is given. Renfrewshire Council takes the privacy of your personal data very seriously. For more information see our Privacy Policy. (Please tick to indicate agreement). We agree that information provided in this asset transfer request, including contact details, may ONLY be forwarded to relevant officers within Renfrewshire Council for the purposes of assessment and/or in order to provide specialist support to further the asset transfer request as appropriate. Contact details will only be forwarded with your consent for an explicit purpose. (Please tick to indicate agreement). Page 17 of 170
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3 1.4 Please mark an “X” in the relevant box to confirm the type of CTB and its official number, if it has one. Company (with no fewer than 20 members) and its company number is x Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) (with no fewer than 20 members) and its charity number is SC053117 Community Benefit Society (BenCom), (with no fewer than 20 members) and its registered number is Unincorporated organisation (no number) Please attach a copy of your constitution, Articles of Association or registered rules. 1.5 Has the organisation been individually designated as a community transfer body by the Scottish Ministers? No Yes ☐ Please give the title and date of the designation order: 1.6 Does the organisation fall within a class of bodies which has been designated as community transfer bodies by the Scottish Ministers (i.e. those listed above at 1.4)? No Yes ☐ If yes what class of bodies does it fall within? Page 18 of 170
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4 Section 2: Information about the land and rights requested 2.1 Please identify the land / property to which this asset transfer request relates. You should provide a street address or grid reference and any name by which the land or building is known. If you have identified the land on the relevant authority’s register of land, please enter the details listed there. It may be helpful to provide one or more maps or drawings to show the boundaries of the land requested. If you are requesting part of a piece of land, you must attach a map and give a full description of the boundaries of the area to which your request relates. If you are requesting part of a building, please make clear what area you require. A drawing may be helpful. Details of Property: - Cricket pitch next to the KGV Playing Fields and pavilion. Area shown as hatched on the attached site plan E2920 Address: - Renfrew Cricket Club, Haining Road, Renfrew Postcode:- PA4 0AN Community Area:- Renfrew and Gallowhill 2.2 Please provide the UPRN (Unique Property Reference Number), if known. If the property has a UPRN you will find it in the relevant authority’s register of land. UPRN:- 123121137 Page 19 of 170
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5 Section 3: Type of request, payment and conditions 3.1 Please tick what type of request is being made: for ownership (under section 79(2)(a)) - go to section 3A for lease (under section 79(2)(b)(i)) – go to section 3B for other rights (section 79(2)(b)(ii)) - go to section 3C 3A – Request for ownership What price are you prepared to pay for the land requested: Proposed price: - N/A Please attach a note setting out any other terms and conditions you wish to apply to the request. 3B – request for lease What is the length of lease you are requesting? 30 YEARS How much rent are you prepared to pay? Please make clear whether this is per year or per month. Proposed rent: £1 per year Please attach a note setting out any other terms and conditions you wish to be included in the lease, or to apply to the request in any other way. X Page 20 of 170
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6 3C – request for other rights What are the rights you are requesting? Right of access from Dean Park Road, shared use of the carpark and pedestrian access from the carpark. Subject to planning consent, we will seek the erect perimeter fencing and erect modular buildings for storage and changing. Do you propose to make any payment for these rights? Yes ☐ No If yes, how much are you prepared to pay? Please make clear what period this would cover, for example per week, per month, per day? Proposed payment: None Please attach a note setting out any other terms and conditions you wish to apply to the request. Page 21 of 170
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7 Section 4: Community Proposal 4.1 Please set out the reasons for making the request and how the land or building will be used. This should explain the objectives of your project, why there is a need for it, any development or changes you plan to make to the land or building, and any activities that will take place there. 4.1.1 Objectives of the Project: The primary objectives of the project are: To secure a long-term lease for the KGV playing fields, ensuring the club's stability and ability to plan future development. To develop and enhance cricket facilities and equipment for both junior and senior members. To promote community engagement through cricket, encouraging participation from all demographics including underrepresented groups. To provide a safe and welcoming environment for members, guests, and the community. To increase social interaction within the club by developing an indoor common area. To provide a facility which other community groups can have secure and affordable access to, including partnerships with other Sports clubs/organisations. 4.1.2 Why there is a need for your Project The lack of a long-term lease, which hinders access to funding and development opportunities. Current inadequate and outdated equipment, which affects the quality of training and matches. The absence of a clubhouse or indoor area, limiting social interaction and community engagement. Vandalism and misuse of the grounds, which compromise safety and the ability to maintain the facilities. The need to support financially challenged individuals and families, making cricket accessible to all. Lack of safe, secure and affordable facilities for other community groups. 4.1.3 Development / changes / modifications required Secure a long-term lease for the KGV playing fields. Construct a clubhouse with two dressing rooms, a kitchen, and a meeting/function area. Replace outdated machinery and equipment for ground maintenance. Install fencing around the playing fields to prevent vandalism and misuse. Upgrade existing cricket equipment, including covers and nets. Further develop existing partnerships with local schools and with community groups to use the facilities for games and events. i4.1.4 Activities that will take place Regular training sessions and matches for juniors and seniors. School cricket sessions and festivals. Community engagement events and initiatives. “Introduction to Cricket for Adults” program for mental health and wellbeing. Social events and fundraisers in the new clubhouse. Maintenance of the grounds and facilities by volunteers. Schools fixtures and tournaments in partnership with Active Schools. Hire of facilities to other community groups and sports clubs. 4.1.5 If the asset is to be used by the public it would be helpful if you could provide details of letting’s policy and opening times Page 22 of 170
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8 The facilities will be available to the members with the following schedule: April to September Junior practice: Tuesday 6–8 pm All Stars (5-8 years): Tuesday 5–6 pm Kwik Cricket (U10s): Sunday 10 am–1 pm Under 12s: Friday 5:45–9 pm Under 14s: Friday 5:45–9 pm Under 16s: Monday 5:45–9 pm Senior practice: Tuesday and Thursday 6:30–9:30 pm Matches: Saturday 10:45 am–7 pm, Sunday 12–6:30 pm Midweek games and Development XI: Tuesday 5:30–9:30 pm The clubhouse and ground will be available for events and social gatherings as needed out with these times in particular during the day midweek and during the off season for other community groups and sports clubs. 4.1.6 What provision will be provided for people with disabilities? The clubhouse and facilities will be designed to be wheelchair accessible. As part of club development plan we plan to start a disability cricket section, with coaches planning to gain the necessary qualifications this winter. Special sessions and support for disabled individuals will be provided. Collaboration with local disability support groups to ensure inclusivity. 4.1.7 Any other relevant information? The club engages extensively with the local community, providing free sessions to schools and supporting refugees. Financial support is provided for those who cannot afford membership fees, ensuring inclusivity. Efforts are made to reengage past members and support mental health through sports. The club is committed to creating a safe and organized environment by addressing vandalism and unauthorized use of the grounds. Volunteer efforts are crucial to maintaining the facilities, with significant hours dedicated annually. By addressing these areas, the project aims to enhance the cricket club's facilities, increase community engagement, and ensure long-term sustainability. Benefits of the proposal 4.2 Please set out the benefits that you consider will arise if the request is agreed to. This section should explain how the project will benefit your community, and others. Please refer to the guidance on how the relevant authority will consider the benefits of a request. Page 23 of 170
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9 Please explain how the project will benefit your community by detailing how your project will promote or improve: - 4.2.1 Economic development / income generation The project will significantly contribute to economic development and income generation in several ways: Increased Membership and Participation Fees: Improved facilities will attract more members, both juniors and seniors, resulting in higher membership fees and participation charges. Grant Funding Access: With a long-term lease, the club can access various grant funding opportunities that were previously unavailable. These funds can be used for infrastructure development and community programs and to continue to enhance the facility. Event Hosting and Rentals: The new clubhouse will provide a venue for hosting events, meetings, and functions, generating additional income through rentals. This allows the local community to access the facility where they require to go outside of the area and bring additional income to neighbouring business, in particular retail and food. It will also increase the number of visitors out with the area, when visiting teams not just from the cricket but other sports who will be using the facility. An increase of visitors supporting teams, when the women and disability sections of the club are set up. There is sufficient car parking for visitors, and it will not lead to any on street parking increase, we would make it clear to all visitors that parking is strictly in the car parking area provided. Local Employment: The project will create job opportunities, both temporary (during construction) and permanent (for maintenance and operations), benefiting the local economy 4.2.2 Regeneration The project will play a key role in the regeneration of the local area: Revitalizing Community Space: The development of modern cricket facilities and a clubhouse will transform the KGV playing fields into a vibrant community hub. Enhanced Local Infrastructure: The project will lead to improvements in local infrastructure, making the area more attractive to residents and visitors. Increased Property Values: The presence of well-maintained sports facilities can positively impact property values in the surrounding area. Community Engagement: By fostering partnerships with local schools, other sports clubs and community groups, the project will enhance community engagement and pride. 4.2.3 Public Health The project will have a positive impact on public health by: Promoting Physical Activity: Providing modern facilities and equipment will encourage more people, especially youth, to participate in cricket, promoting physical fitness. Mental Health Benefits: Programs like "Introduction to Cricket for Adults" support mental health by providing a safe space for social interaction and physical activity, particularly for those recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Page 24 of 170
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10 Inclusive Sports: Offering disability cricket and engaging with underrepresented groups will ensure that everyone in the community has the opportunity to participate in sports, promoting overall well- being. Making the facility available to other sports clubs who are experiencing difficulties in accessing affordable and secure facilties. 4.2.4 Social / Wellbeing The project will enhance social well-being by: Community Building: The new clubhouse will serve as a social hub where members, guests, and the community can gather, fostering stronger community ties. Youth Development: Improved facilities will enable better coaching and development of young cricketers, helping them achieve their goals and building their confidence. Youth initiative programs in conjunction with Active Schools to support and encourage youth to an active lifestyle. Support for Vulnerable Groups: Initiatives like free memberships for financially challenged individuals and engagement with refugees will promote inclusivity and social equity 4.2.5 Environmental / Wellbeing / Environmental Benefits The project will also provide environmental benefits: Sustainable Practices: The club's commitment to maintaining the grounds and facilities using sustainable practices will set a positive example for the community. We will have sustainable energy initiatives for the clubhouse/pavilion and recycling initiatives. Green Space Preservation: By securing the lease and investing in the upkeep of the playing fields, the project will ensure the preservation of valuable green space for recreational use. Reduction in Vandalism and Misuse: Installing fencing and improving the grounds will reduce vandalism and unauthorized use, creating a safer and more pleasant environment for all users. 4.2.6 Does your project contribute to the reduction in equalities? Please detail how. The project actively contributes to reducing inequalities by: Inclusive Membership Policies: Offering free and reduced-cost memberships ensures that financial barriers do not prevent participation in cricket. Diverse Programming: Starting women's teams and offering disability cricket will promote gender and ability inclusivity. Community Engagement: Engaging with refugee communities and providing support to underrepresented groups ensures that everyone has the opportunity to participate and benefit from the club's activities. Making the facility available for free to certain community organisations who cannot afford hires and offering affordable hires to those who can. 4.2.7 Any other relevant information Additional benefits and considerations include: Historical Significance: The club has a long history (since 1904) and preserving its operations maintains a valuable cultural and historical asset for the community. Volunteer Contributions: The project leverages significant volunteer efforts, fostering a spirit of community service and engagement. Page 25 of 170
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11 Long-term Planning: Securing the lease allows for strategic long-term planning, ensuring the sustainability and growth of the club for future generations. Enhanced Community Relations: By making the facilities available to other community groups, the project will enhance relations and collaboration within the local area. In summary, this project will provide substantial benefits to the community through economic development, regeneration, public health improvements, social well-being, environmental sustainability, and the reduction of inequalities. Restrictions on use of the land 4.3 If there are any restrictions on the use or development of the land, please explain how your project will comply with these. Restrictions might include, amongst others, environmental designations such as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSI), heritage designations such as listed building status, controls on contaminated land or planning restrictions. As far as we are aware there are no specific or exceptional restrictions, as we have been using the land since 2005 and we do not intend to change the use the developments noted will be subject to regular planning consents. Negative consequences 4.4 Please identify any potential risks which may occur if your request is agreed to? How would you propose to minimise these? You should consider any potential negative consequences for the local economy, environment, or any group of people and explain how you could reduce these. We do not expect or anticipate any negative consequences as stated earlier we have already been using the land since 2004. The only objections which may arise, may come from individuals and groups using the area without booking it through ONE REN as we do now, such as a training area for football, golf etc. We do intend to make areas available to other groups but in an organised manner and where they understand how the area can be used and not damaged as is the case on many occasions. The area is also used for dog walkers and unfortunately, we regularly deal with dog fouling and abusive dog owners. However, we understand many dog owners are responsible and we would look at ways the club can possibly make areas accessible for responsible dog owners. Page 26 of 170
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12 Capacity to deliver 4.5 Please show how your organisation will be able to manage the project and achieve your objectives. This could include the skills and experience of members of the organisation, any track record of previous projects, whether you intend to use professional advisers, etc. Paul Goodman (Trustee) – A club member for 48 years and a time served welder and in is the Chairman and Grounds Convenor. Paul has now retired from playing, he is a qualified Level 2 coach, a qualified Groundsman and a qualified Umpire. Paul was recognised for his voluntary efforts being awarded the Daily Record Scottish Sport Local Hero in 2011. Sajid Majeed (Trustee) – Secretary, Senior and Junior Cricket Convenor, Businessman (Company Director) and property manager. Secretary and vice chair of Renfrew and Gallowhill Hub in its inception, previously Vice Chair and Chairman of the Competitions Management Committee of the Western District Cricket Union and Vice Chair and Chairman of the WDCU executive committee and a member for about 20 years, previously a non-executive Director on the board of Cricket Scotland. Served on several other committees. Member since 1983 and captained the first eleven for 15 years including 10 years in the Scottish National League. Sajid is a qualified ECB Level 3 coach and a qualified groundsman. He is currently the Head Coach of Scotland Boys U17s and Head of High Performance for SACA Scotland. Sajid is also a founder member of an organisation called “Running out Racism, has been invited to be a trustee of a charity called “Beyond Boundaries” and has completed numerous Glasgow marathons, half marathons and 10Ks raising funds for various charities in the past. Mohsin Majeed – Match secretary and captain of the midweek first eleven, Degree in Business and Accounts, Sales & Marketing Director in a retail business, been at the club since he was 8 and has now been at the club for 26 years, he has played junior regional representative cricket. Taral Khasiya (Trustee) – Member for 19 years, Membership Convenor, Social Media Convenor, Second Eleven EL Captain, and former Captain of the Second Eleven. Taral is also currently a CMC member of the WDCU. He holds an M.Sc. in Advanced Computing and a master’s degree in computer applications. Sahil Chopra (Trustee) – Treasurer – Club member for 6 years, Senior Operations Manager at Nat West – master’s in finance & risk management and has been captain of the second eleven for several years. Stephen Dobson (Trustee) – Joined the club as junior in 1978 and played for the club other than when he was working further away and served as the club Chairman. Stephen is a senior Tesco Store Manager and has a degree in History. As you can see from the list of committee members there is a wealth of broad experience along with a strong sense of loyalty for the club coupled with long service within the club committee. There are other more recent committee members who are listed in more detail within the attached business plan. Page 27 of 170
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13 Sajid Majeed has project managed many projects within his business career and the remaining individuals bring their own expertise and commitment. Sajid Majeed has also had knowledge of other cricket clubs who have gone through a similar process (through his involvement with the WDCU and CS) this would also be a valuable source of information and support. We also have other club members who are not on the committee but can lend their expertise and assistance where required. Section 5: Level and nature of support 5.1 Please provide details of the level and nature of support for the request, from your community and, if relevant, from others. This could include information on the proportion of your community who are involved with the request, how you have engaged with your community beyond the members of your organisation and what their response has been. You should also show how you have engaged with any other communities that may be affected by your proposals. 5.1.1 How many people are members of your organisation? Are they in agreement with this application? Renfrew Cricket Club has approximately 120 registered members, comprising 30 juniors and 90 seniors. These members are in full agreement with this application, as evidenced by our consistent engagement and participation in club activities. The proposal has been discussed in various club meetings including the last AGM, where it received unanimous support from the membership, reflecting their commitment to the club’s future development and sustainability. 5.1.2 Have you consulted with other local stakeholder groups and agencies? Please provide evidence. Yes, we have consulted with various local stakeholder groups and agencies. Our primary consultations include: Cricket Scotland and Western District Cricket Union: Both bodies support our application, recognizing Renfrew CC as an inclusive, community-focused club with strong local ties. Local Councillors and MSPs: Several local councillors and MSPs are aware of and support the work we do within the community, endorsing our efforts to secure a long-term lease. Active School Coordinators: We have regularly engaged with Active School Coordinators well over twenty years to deliver cricket programs to Renfrewshire Schools, demonstrating our active role in promoting sports and physical activity among youth. Renfrew Community Council: Ongoing discussions and collaborations with the Renfrew Community Council highlight our commitment to community engagement and support for local initiatives. Renfrewshire Council Social Work Unaccompanied Team/Throughcare and Aftercare: We have engaged with this team and offered training opportunities and support to several refugees, helping with their integration into the community. Evidence of these consultations can be found in letters of support, meeting minutes, and correspondence records, which are included in our attached business plan. Page 28 of 170
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14 5.1.3 Have you been in contact with local staff? If yes, please provide details of who Yes, we have been in contact with various local staff members, including: Active School Coordinators: They have collaborated with us to deliver cricket programs and festivals for local schools. Local Council Representatives: We have discussed our plans and received support from council members who are aware of our community contributions. Community Engagement Officers: Regular interaction with community engagement officers has helped us align our programs with broader community objectives and gain valuable feedback. Renfrewshire Council Social Work Unaccompanied Team/Throughcare and Aftercare 5.1.4 Have you contacted any other communities that may be affected? Yes, we have reached out to other communities that may be affected, including: Neighbouring Sports Clubs: We have informed neighbouring sports clubs about our plans to ensure there are no conflicts and to explore potential collaboration opportunities. Local Schools and Educational Institutions: By engaging with local schools, we have ensured that our plans are in line with their needs and expectations, fostering a supportive environment for school- based cricket programs. Community Groups: We have communicated with various community groups to inform them of our plans and gather input, ensuring that our project benefits the broader community. We held an Open day where we invited all of the above mentioned groups and neighbours who were sent letters of invitation, to discuss the clubs plans for the future. 5.1.5 Any other relevant information Additional relevant information includes: Inclusive Programs: We offer free memberships and support for financially challenged individuals, engage with refugee communities, and provide programs for individuals with disabilities, ensuring our club is accessible to all. Voluntary Contributions: Our members contribute over 900 voluntary hours annually for ground maintenance and administration, showcasing our commitment to the club and community. Historical Significance: Renfrew CC, founded in 1904, has a long-standing history in the community, and securing this lease will help preserve this cultural and historical asset. Community Engagement: We continuously work on initiatives to promote community engagement, such as free cricket sessions for schools, partnerships with local organizations, and social events that foster a sense of community. By addressing these areas, our project aims to enhance the cricket club's facilities, increase community engagement, and ensure long-term sustainability, all while maintaining strong support from members and stakeholders. We were part of Renfrew Sports & Athletic Club at Moorcroft and in 2003 we were requested by Renfrewshire Council to surrender our remaining lease (over 40 years remaining), to allow the development of a new sports centre on the site. In return the three sections, cricket, football and physical culture were all promised suitable and equivalent sites for their clubs with comparable lease arrangements. We were relocated to KGV in 2004 and despite many efforts by ourselves that promise/ agreement has never been fulfilled. There were many reasons given for this, such as constant change in plans for the KGV site and numerous changes in council officials who were Page 29 of 170
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15 dealing with and eventually we were guided to the process of the CAT, this started in 2018. Initially we were key holders for the pavilion, and we were informed we would have reasonable access to the facility, but every year that access has become more restricted as the pavilion use has changed, where we now have to book the pavilion and dressing rooms at a considerable cost, with no access to kitchen facilities and early closing of the pavilion on weekends at 5.30pm, which impacts the club as the games can finish as late as 7.45pm and we are having to use disposable tableware and cutlery as we have no dishwashing facilities. Since 2004 we have always behaved responsibly and cooperated with the Renfrewshire Council bodies who we have been letting the facilities from and given no cause for complaint from their staff regarding our interaction and use of the facilities. The changes have been made in the facilities that have been made available to us have come other external circumstances. Page 30 of 170
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16 Section 6: Funding 6.1 Please outline how you propose to fund the price or rent you are prepared to pay for the land, and your proposed use of the land. You should show your calculations of the costs associated with the transfer of the land or building and your future use of it, including any redevelopment, ongoing maintenance and the costs of your activities. All proposed income and investment should be identified, including volunteering and donations. If you intend to apply for grants or loans you should demonstrate that your proposals are eligible for the relevant scheme, according to the guidance available for applicants. 6.1.1 Please show your calculations of the costs associated with the transfer of the land or buildings and your future use of it, including any redevelopment, ongoing maintenance and the costs of your activities. All proposed income and investment should be identified, including volunteering and donations. As there is no cost for the land and we have already been using the site, their will be no immediate requirements for additional funding for redevelopment. The information about ongoing activities and maintenance are all noted in the attached business plan. We are planning to apply to the Sustainable Communities Fund for the fence project and the Sports Scotland Facilities fund for the modular sports pavilion, details are in the business plan. 6.1.2 Please also supply details of what funding you have received so far, and any conditions attached. We have not received any funding for the planned developments at this moment. we are planning to apply to the Sustainable Communities Fund for the fence project and the Sports Scotland Facilities fund for the modular sports pavilion. 6.1.3 Details of funding you have applied for but are still waiting on a decision. We have applied to the Renfrew Local Area Fund, to part convert a container into a scorebox, amount applied for £3480. 6.1.4 Details of other funding i.e. voluntary donations, borrowing etc We have no borrowings and receive donations from members throughout the season although not fixed but in some cases regular 6.1.5 Any other relevant information Page 31 of 170
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17 Section 7: Other Supporting Documentation To enable the Council to fully consider your application, the following supporting documentation must be submitted as part of your application:- • A copy of your organisation’s Constitution, Articles or Association or other governing rules as appropriate; • A detailed business case (that is proportionate to the nature of the asset transfer request); • A financial projection of income and expenditure for at least three full financial years following the date of this request; • A copy of your organisation’s most recent audited accounts, where available (or a financial projection covering the current financial year where the applicant has been operating for less than one year); • Annual reports (where these are available). Applicants are advised to refer to the Scottish Government Community Asset Transfer Guidance for Community Transfer Bodies for further details of what information should be included in these supporting documents. https://www.gov.scot/publications/asset-transfer- under-community-empowerment-scotland-act-2015-guidance-community-9781786527509/ Page 32 of 170
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18 Declaration and Signature Two office-bearers (board members, charity trustees or committee members) of the community transfer body must sign the form. They must provide their full names and home addresses for the purposes of prevention and detection of fraud. This form and supporting documents will be made available online for any interested person to read and comment on. Personal information will be redacted before the form is made available. We, the undersigned on behalf of the community transfer body as noted at section 1, make an asset transfer request as specified in this form. We declare that the information provided in this form and any accompanying documents is accurate to the best of our knowledge. “I understand that the details provided will be used by Renfrewshire Council for the purpose of assessing the asset transfer request and may be shared with Council Officers and Elected Members for the purposes of providing support in making the application or other purposes as appropriate. Further information on how the Council looks after personal information can be found here : https://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/2201/Privacy-policy 1. Name : Paul Goodman Address: Date: 12.07.2024 Position: Chairman Signature: P Goodman 2. Name: Sajid Majeed Address: Date : 12/07/2024 Position: Secretary Signature: S Majeed Page 33 of 170
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19 Checklist of accompanying documents To check that nothing is missed, please list any documents which you are submitting to accompany this form. Section 1 – you must attach your organisation’s constitution, articles of association or registered rules Club constitution Section 2 – any maps, drawings or description of the land requested Section 3 – note of any terms and conditions that are to apply to the request Section 4 – about your proposals, their benefits, any restrictions on the land or potential negative consequences, and your organisation’s capacity to deliver. Section 5 – evidence of community support Section 6 – funding Section 7 – Supporting Documentation Page 34 of 170
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1 | Page Renfrew Cricket Club Outline Business Plan May 2024 Page 36 of 170
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2 | Page Contents Section 1 - Executive Summary 3 Section 2 – Overview of Renfrew Cricket Club 4 Section 3 - Renfrew Cricket Club Governance and Administration 9 Section 4 – Long-term Lease of Renfrew Cricket Pitch (Community Asset Transfer Request) 15 Section 5 - Evidence of Need / Fit with Local Strategies 23 Section 6 – Evidence of Need / Fit with National Strategies 29 Section 7 – Anticipated Outcomes 32 Section 8 - Funding Strategy 33 Section 9 – Financial Viability 36 Appendix 1 – Financial Forecast 39 Appendix 2 - New Clubhouse/ Hours of Operation 45 Appendix 3 – Club Activities for Members 47 Appendix 4 – Club Sponsorship Programme / Templates 49 Appendix 5 – Renfrew Cricket Club / Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy 51 Page 37 of 170
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3 | Page Section 1 - Executive Summary Background - Renfrew Cricket Club was established in 1904 under the name Babcock Power & Wilcox. Originating during a period marked by an influx of immigrants attracted to Scotland's bustling shores amid the zenith of its shipping industry, the club emerged as a unifying force, weaving through the rich tapestry of Renfrew's multicultural history. In 1988 Babcock Power & Wilcox closed the social club and sports club at Moorcroft. The cricket club reformed as members of a new multi sports club Renfrew Sports and Athletic Club taking the name of Renfrew Cricket Club. Today, Renfrew Cricket Club operates from the King George V (KGV) Playing Fields, Renfrew (PA4 0AP). The KGV playing fields include a cricket pitch, a 3G synthetic grass football pitch and 6 natural grass pitches. The Club moved to this site in 2005 following the closure of the Moorcroft Outdoor Sports Centre in Renfrew and the building of a new indoor sports centre on the site.. The Club participates in leagues and cups and is a member of the Western District Cricket Union, Western District Junior Cricket Union, and Cricket Scotland (the sport’s National governing body). Governance and membership – In February 2024, the Club incorporated as a SCIO (Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation / OSCR Registration Number SC053117). The organisation is led by five Trustees, four of whom currently hold positions on the Club’s management committee. There are 90+ registered club members. Current Activities for Club Members – The Club operates with two senior Saturday XIs, two midweek XIs and four Junior teams (U10, U11, U14 and U16). In addition, the Club delivers an All Stars U9s programme (supported by Cricket Scotland) designed to ‘inspire five- to eight-year-old children to take up the sport of cricket through a fun first experience of the game’.1 The Club has a good working relationship with Renfrewshire Council’s Active Schools Programme Coordinator and regularly delivers cricket coaching sessions to primary and secondary school pupils in Renfrewshire. Community Asset Transfer Request - Renfrew Cricket Club is preparing a Community Asset Transfer Request for the long term lease of its current site. The Club has a licence to occupy the site and hires on-site changing room facilities from OneRen. Approval of the asset transfer request will enable the Club to develop the site as a community-based sports facility, offering year-round sports-based activities to improve the physical and mental wellbeing of Club members and the local community. Plans for the site include erection of security fencing to protect the pitch and club equipment from vandalism (Phase 1) and installation of a modular-build club house (Phase). The cost of Phase 1 and 2 is estimated to be £200,000. Outcomes – As a result of delivering the above, the following Outcomes will be achieved: 1 All Stars programme launch, Cricket Scotland (2017) Page 38 of 170
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4 | Page ● The future of Renfrew Cricket Pitch will be secured – The successful transfer of the asset will ensure the grounds are managed / operated by the community. ● The future of the Renfrew Cricket Club will be secured – Through security of tenure, improved facilities for members and strengthened financial viability of the Club ● More people with have an opportunity to participate in community-based sport – As the result of enhancing facilities to provide social as well as competitive playing of cricket. ● More people will have an opportunity to access community events and activities – The addition of a new clubhouse on site will provide a year-round facility from which to deliver activities for the local community. The local community will benefit from having increased provision of safe and affordable meeting space. Fit with Local and National Strategies – The Club’s proposal to develop its current site will directly contribute to the achievement of local and national strategies including: ● Renfrewshire Council Plan 2022-27 which aims to create ‘a fairer Renfrewshire built on innovation, wellbeing and opportunity."2 ● SportScotland’s Corporate Strategy Sport for Life by making sport more accessible; providing opportunities to progress; contributing to an active Scotland; and celebrating the benefits of sport. Section 2 – Overview of Renfrew Cricket Club Club History - Renfrew Cricket Club was established in 1904 under the name Babcock Power & Wilcox and embarked on its journey into Renfrewshire's sporting landscape with its inaugural league match in 1911. Originating during a period marked by an influx of immigrants attracted to Scotland's bustling shores amid the zenith of its shipping industry, the club emerged as a unifying force, weaving through the rich tapestry of Renfrew's multicultural history. In 1988 Babcock Power & Wilcox closed the social club and sports club at Moorcroft. The cricket club reformed as members of a new multi sports club Renfrew Sports and Athletic Club taking the name of Renfrew Cricket Club. Throughout its existence, Renfrew Cricket Club faced its fair share of challenges, particularly when the development of Moorcroft took place in 2004 and the club had a temporary home at Robertson Park with the First Eleven playing away from home and not having any outdoor training facilities. Winning the Western District Cricket Union Division 1 title for the first time on the last game of the season was even more remarkable given these circumstances. They persevered thanks to the steadfast dedication of visionary individuals on its committee. Their unwavering commitment not only guided the club through turbulent times but also sparked a revival, restoring it to its former glory when moving to its current home and ground in 2005. At the core of Renfrew Cricket Club's ethos lies a profound commitment to nurturing the love for cricket among the youth. Through a team of dedicated and qualified coaches, the club extends its reach to numerous primary and secondary schools across Renfrew, 2 Renfrewshire Council Plan 2022-27 Page 39 of 170
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5 | Page introducing countless young enthusiasts to the joys of the sport. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the club's overarching mission, envisioning a vibrant, multicultural hub for cricket aficionados, with a special emphasis on nurturing young talent through robust development programs, which has seen the club field teams in WDJCU leagues at U11,13,14,15,16 and 18 age groups. Renfrew Cricket Club boasts a storied history of success on the field, including various T20 cup and league victories and promotions including the Small Clubs Cup (a national cup) in 2000. The highlight in 2004 when the club clinched the WDCU Division 1 title, marking a significant milestone as it progressed to the national league winning two play off games and remaining in the National League until the move back to regional leagues.in 2012 when Renfrew won the Division 1 title to gain promotion to the WDCU premier division. Renfrew CC's association with international players such as Rashid Khan, Naveed Qureshi, Muhammad Ramzan and Sikandar Raza, who have all played for the club further underscores its global presence and influence. In recent years, Renfrew Cricket Club has expanded its community-focused initiatives, launching the "Introduction to Cricket" program to combat the isolating effects of the pandemic. Recognizing the profound impact on mental health and well-being, the club provided a safe haven for adults to engage in physical activity and forge meaningful connections, reaffirming its role as a pillar of support within the community. Amidst these endeavours, Renfrew Cricket Club's young stars have shone brightly, with two of its brightest talents earning the prestigious opportunity to represent Scotland at the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup in the Caribbean. Their accomplishments not only bring pride to the club and country but also serve as a testament to Renfrew Cricket Club's enduring spirit of diversity, resilience, and excellence. Renfrew CC has now been fielding three Saturday teams and two T20 teams in the Evening League since 2022 increasing playing opportunities for players of all levels. The club will also be fielding a veteran’s team in season 2024 and the plan is to have women’s and girls at junior and senior level along with junior teams at all age groups. As Renfrew Cricket Club continues to script its legacy, its story stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment to shaping the future of cricket in Renfrewshire and beyond, with each match played and every milestone achieved reinforcing its status as a beacon of sporting excellence. Renfrew Cricket Club Now - The Club operates from the King George V (KGV) Playing Fields, Renfrew (Renfrewshire). The KGV playing fields include a cricket pitch, a 3G synthetic grass football pitch and 6 natural grass pitches. The Club moved to this site in 2005 following the closure of the Moorcroft Outdoor Sports Centre in Renfrew (now the site of the Renfrew Leisure Centre). The Club participates in leagues and cups and is a member of the Western District Cricket Union, Western District Junior Cricket Union, and Cricket Scotland (the sport’s National governing body). An overview of the Club is detailed below. Page 40 of 170
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6 | Page ● Legal Structure – The Club operates as a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) / OSCR Registration Number SC053117. The organisation is led by five Trustees, four of whom also hold positions within the Club’s committee structure. ● Membership – The Club has approximately 90+ registered members. A breakdown of members is detailed below. ● Licence to Occupy (LTO) Out-door nets only – The Club has a LTO from OneRen (formerly Renfrewshire Leisure / signed 2020) for use of the out-door cricket nets. The fee for use of these nets is £1,000 per playing season. Access to the KGV Pavilion (for changing facilities) is based on a block hire. The Club is invoiced for hire of the Pavilion (@ £3,500 approx) at the end of each playing season. ● Funding and Investment – The Club has a track record of managing grant funded activity. Since 2015, the Club has received funds totalling £20,000. These funds have been used to invest in the development of a Junior Club. The Club has also been successful in securing funding through Engage Renfrewshire’s Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund. This investment has enabled Renfrew Cricket Club to deliver a programme of community-based activities which promote the mental health and wellbeing through engagement in sport / physical health and wellbeing activities. ● Fundraising – The Club actively fundraises through Club social events, member donations, and more recently a Go Fund Me page. Fundraising has enabled the Club to invest in equipment, most recently a total of £10,000 was raised to purchase a new roller for the grounds. ● Sponsorship – The Club has developed a corporate sponsorship programme. Sponsorship provides a regular source of income to the Club. See Appendix 5 for further details. Development opportunities from sponsorship are also detailed in Section 8 of the business plan. Current Activities for Club Members – The Club currently operate with two senior Saturday XIs, two midweek XIs and four Junior teams (U10, U11, U14 and U16). In addition, the Club has an All Stars U9s programme for children aged 5 to 8 years. All Stars is an initiative supported by Cricket Scotland designed to ‘inspire five- to eight-year-old children to take up the sport of cricket through a fun first experience of the game’.3 Current Activities for Children & Young People - During Spring/Summer 2022, Renfrew Cricket Club delivered approximately 80-100 coaching sessions to primary and secondary school pupils in Renfrewshire. The Club has a good working relationship with Renfrewshire Council’s Active Schools Programme Coordinator. Provision for People with Disabilities – The Club is keen to develop its provision for disability cricket. In 2021, Cricket Scotland launched its Disability Cricket Champion Club Programme. Renfrew Cricket Club is in discussion with Cricket Scotland’s Disability Officer to identify opportunities for provision of disability cricket activities within Renfrewshire. The Disability Champion Clubs Cricket Programme is funded by the England Cricket Board. It is 3 All Stars programme launch, Cricket Scotland (2017) Page 41 of 170
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8 | Page Groundsmen (IOG) Trades Skills profile of members includes welding, construction, plumbing and project management Membership Recruitment – The Club is working towards increasing Club membership. The Management Committee has therefore undertaken the following activities: ● Sponsored membership and free membership – The Club offers sponsored or free membership places each year to individuals who would otherwise not be able to sustain their membership. ● Payment of membership fee by instalments – This facility is available to anyone seeking membership of the Club and has been introduced as a means of ensuring the membership fee is affordable to all. ● Awareness raising / promotion – The Club actively uses social media channels such as Facebook to promote the Club and encourage wider community engagement in the sport of cricket. ● Onsite banners – Onsite banners display contact information for the Club. ● Renfrewshire’s Active Schools Programme – Each year, Club volunteers provide cricket coaching through Renfrewshire’s Active Schools programme. Eight Primary Schools and three High Schools regularly participate in the Club’s activities delivered through the Active Schools Programme. As a result of this programme, approx. 10-20 children and young people join the Club as Junior / Student members each year. Community-based activities - The Club has successfully delivered health and well-being initiatives designed to encourage members of the wider geographic community to become more active. With the support of two Community Health and Wellbeing grants (administered by Engage Renfrewshire), the Club has delivered indoor training, coaching and cricket games for three hours a week (Thursday 6-9pm with 10 weekend games) over an 18-week period. This activity targeted a total of 26 people from the BAME community and refugees from South Asia. Reported outcomes included: improvements in mental health and wellbeing, increased connectedness through social interactions, increase in physical activity, learning new skills. Club Achievements / Track Record – The Club’s key achievements and milestones are detailed below. ● Club Achievements - On the playing side, the senior teams have notable achievements including participation in the National league when it was in existence and numerous league and cup successes. There has also been notable success for the junior teams in their age group competitions. ● Club Milestones - Renfrew Cricket Club boasts a storied history of success on the field, including various T20 cup and league victories and promotions including the Small Clubs Cup (a national cup) in 2000. In 2004, the Club clinched the Western District Cricket Union (WDCU) Division 1 title, marking a significant milestone as it progressed to the national league winning two playoff games and remaining in the National League until Page 43 of 170
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10 | Page Management Association Treasurer and Trustee – Sahil Chopra Club member for 6 years and a Senior Operations Manager for NatWest. Sahil has an MSC in Banking and Risk Management and is Captain of the Second XI Team. Committee Member and Trustee – Taral Khasiya Club Member for 19 years, and a Web Admin Manager. He has an M.Sc. in Advanced Computing and a Master's Degree in Computer Applications. Taral is the Membership Convenor and the Club’s Social Media and Web Administrator. Taral is Captain of the Second XI evening league and former Captain of the Second XI Team. Fixtures Secretary / Social Convenor – Mohsin Majeed Club member for 25 years a Senior Sales Director. Mohsin has a degree in Accounts and Finance. Mohsin is the Club Social Convenor and plays for the First XI and is Captain of the First XI evening league. Qualifications include: ● Level 2 Coaching accredited by Coach Cricket Scotland and England Cricket Board. Sponsorship Convenor – Zakir Sheik Club member for 4 years and a Development Operations Consultant. Zakir has an MSc in Applied Computing and is an AWS certified Cloud Engineer (Amazon Web Services). Zakir is a member of the Club Sponsorship Committee and plays in the Second XI and Third XI Teams Grants (Funding) Convenor – Uttam Bhowmick Joined as a Club Junior member in the 1990’s and has recently re-joined the Club. Uttam is the Club Grants Convenor and is the Captain of the Third XI Team Committee Member – Indirjit Dulai Club member since 1998 and has an IT background. Indirjit is currently supporting the Sponsorship Convenor. Indirjit plays for the Second XI Team Trustee – Stephen Dobson Has held strong links with the Club for over 50 years and a former chairman of the Club. Stephen is now a Trustee of the newly formed SCIO. Subcommittees – The Club has established a project steering group to lead on the Community Asset Transfer request and proposed development of the grounds and new clubhouse. Members of the subcommittee include four members of the board. Club members with relevant skills and experience will be invited to join the subcommittee as the project develops. The subcommittee reports directly to the Club Board. Succession planning – The Committee is aware of the importance of succession planning. To this end, the Club actively encourages and promotes opportunities for Club members to participate in the operation of the Club. In addition, the Club has created positions on sub committees to provide opportunities for members to develop committee skills and Page 45 of 170
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13 | Page Renfrewshire Social Enterprise Network Membership Fee – Free Membership Details / Benefits – Opportunities to network with other Renfrewshire-based social enterprises. Support with developing partnerships and wider promotion of community engagement activities Page 48 of 170
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15 | Page Vulnerable Persons Protection Policy Covered by child protection and members do not come into this category. Will regularly review need for this as Club activities develop. Impact of COVID Pandemic – The impact of the COVID Pandemic on delivery of sports-based activities is well documented. For Renfrew Cricket Club, the Pandemic impacted on the delivery of activities for Club members as well as the wider community as regular Club activities were suspended, and community outreach activities were curtailed. To ensure the financial viability of the Club during this time, a grant application for £2,500 was made to the Third Sector Resilience Fund and approved. The grant was used to invest in club running costs. The impact of the pandemic on delivery of the Active Schools programme (which could not be delivered during 2020 /2021 resulted in a drop in the number children and young people continuing to play cricket and become Junior / Student members. The Club anticipates the successful outcome of the Asset Transfer request will enable the Club to move forward with an expanded programme of activities. Currently the Club incurs additional costs for hosting games/training sessions due to hire fees involved (access to Pavilion and out-door nets). Section 4 – Long-term Lease of Renfrew Cricket Pitch (Community Asset Transfer Request) Renfrew Cricket Club proposes to request the long-term lease of Club’s current grounds (Renfrew Cricket Pitch) through the Community Asset Transfer process. The Club currently has a licence to occupy the site and hires on-site changing room facilities from OneRen. The successful outcome of the asset transfer request will enable the Club to develop the site as a community-based sports facility, offering year-round sports-based activities aimed at improving the physical and mental wellbeing of Club members and the local community. Renfrew Cricket Pitch is situated within King George V Playing fields, Broadloan, Renfrew (PA4 0AP). A Goggle Maps image is below (Renfrew Cricket Club - Google Maps) Page 50 of 170
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16 | Page Figure 2 Location of Renfrew Cricket Pitch, Google Maps Project Background Previously the Club operated from the Moorcroft Outdoor Sports facility as part of the Renfrew Sports Athletic Club. The Moorcroft venue closed in 2004 and was replaced by a new indoor sports facility (Renfrew Sports Centre) operated by Renfrewshire Leisure (now OneRen). Renfrew Cricket Club relocated to its current site in 2005. In 2020, the Club agreed a Licence to Occupy (LTO) with Renfrewshire Leisure for access to the out-door cricket nets (only). A fee is charged by OneRen for use of the out-door nets. The fee is currently £1,000 per playing season. The Club currently hires onsite changing facilities within the KGV Pavilion for weekend and weekday (evening) matches (the Pavilion is operated by OneRen). The cricket pitch/wicket is maintained by the Club. OneRen maintain a grass cutting schedule for the outlying playing field. Additional grass cutting may be undertaken by request. In 2011, Renfrewshire Leisure and Renfrew and Galloway Hill Community Sports Hub secured an on-site storage container. The container is located within the grounds of Renfrew Cricket Pitch and is used for the safe storage of the Club’s grounds-maintenance tools and sports equipment. There is no perimeter fencing around the site, which is frequently used by dog walkers and other members of the public. Unfortunately, the site is also subject to regular damage/vandalism. Club equipment required during the playing season (e.g., mobile net- covers) are routinely damaged. The cricket square (wicket area) is also damaged Page 51 of 170
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17 | Page periodically by quadbikes and golfers. It is estimated that the Club spends between £500 - £2,000 per annum in making repairs. When incidents occur, they are reported to the Community Police Officer for Renfrew. The request for the transfer of the asset (via long- term lease) from OneRen to Renfrew Cricket Club will place the Club in a better position to secure grant funding required to develop the site. Phase 1 of the proposed development includes installation of security fencing around the perimeter of the cricket grounds. Membership Support for Community Asset Transfer – The Club first surveyed its members to determine support for securing Renfrew Cricket Pitch as the long-term home of Renfrew Cricket Club in 2018. Following discussions with Renfrewshire Council’s Programme Manager for Community Asset Transfer, members were surveyed again in February 2023 and April 2024. 100% of Club members indicated their support for the submission of a Community Asset Transfer Request. No objections were recorded. Planned Development of the Asset - The Club proposes to develop the existing Renfrew Cricket Pitch and grounds as a permanent home for Renfrew Cricket Club. Plans for the site include provision of a new club house and development of the grounds to provide all- year round amenities for Club members as well as a safe and accessible space for the community to use / hire. The Club proposes to undertake a phased development of the site as follows: Phase 1 / Security Fencing - This phase will include the erection of 3m high fencing to secure the site. In the recent past, Club property have been vandalised and the wicket area damaged by quad bikes and trail bikes. In recent years, the Club has spent almost £8,000 on necessary repairs to the mobile wicket and mobile net covers due to vandalism. Whilst installation of security fencing is a significant cost (approximately £57,298.20 including materials, labour, and VAT) it is viewed as a prerequisite for developing the site. Page 52 of 170
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18 | Page Phase 2 / Installation of new Club House (to Cricket Scotland specifications) – This phase will cover the installation of a modular build Club House on site including interior fixture and fittings. The new club house will provide dedicated year-round space for the delivery of club activities. It is important to note that Cricket Scotland specifies requirements for a Club House and there are additional standards for Clubs intending to host regional match events. These events generate income for the host club. Renfrew Cricket Club intends to host regional events and therefore requires facilities which meet with Cricket Scotland standards. Based on Cricket Scotland requirements, the size of the proposed Club House will be approx. 140sqm. At time of writing, current build costs per square meter are estimated to be £1,300 + £260 VAT (utility connections and groundworks would be an additional charge). Therefore, the Club estimates build costs of approximately £218,400. The club house will include the following facilities. ● 1no. kitchen ● 1no. social space / meeting room ● 3no. dressing rooms (2 x Teams plus facilities for umpire / match officials) ● 1no. office space ● 1no. storage room Phase 2 / Preparatory Activities – The Club made contact with Renfrewshire Council’s Duty Planning Officer to discuss the siting of an additional container on the grounds. Further discussion/investigation will be required before progressing with plans for the new Pavilion / Club facility re: connecting the proposed facility to utilities and water. Other Planned Developments On-Site Page 53 of 170
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22 | Page September (6 months). As indicated above, The Club anticipates it will continue to hire the existing Pavilion from OneRen during 2024 whilst funds are raised for the new Club House. Once operational, the new Club House will be open for mid-week Club socials, mid-week (evening) league games, Junior Team games (Mondays and Fridays) and Senior Team games (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays) (Cup Games) and weekend matches on Saturdays and Sundays. It should be noted that this is the Club’s current playing programme and will remain unchanged should the transfer of the asset take place. During the playing season, Saturday games commence at Noon and the grounds are open from 08:30 for players, match officials and Club officers. Weekend games conclude by 19:00 and the ground is cleared by 21:00. Mid-week games start take place between 18:00-21:00. The Club House will open between 17:00-22:00 to allow for use of changing facilities. It should be noted that the Club House will not be licenced for sale of alcohol. Winter Season (October to March) - During the winter season, Renfrew Cricket Club proposes to offer the grounds for use as outdoor training space for local youth football teams. The Club has a long-established connection with Renfrew Victoria Youth Football Club and previously shared facilities as part of Renfrew Sports Athletic Club. Following initial discussions between the two clubs, it is anticipated that twice weekly (evening) training sessions will take place during the winter season. New Clubhouse / Hours of Operation – During the main playing season the Club House will be open for evening and weekend games. When not in use by Renfrew Cricket Club, the new Club House will be available for hire (weekdays) by local community groups. The Club House will continue to be available for community hire during the winter season also. (See also Appendix 3: Clubhouse Hours of Operation). Site Access – As the transfer request relates to the existing Club grounds, access to the site will remain unchanged. Access to car-parking will also remain as is. No additional car- parking or traffic impact assessment will therefore be required. Security fencing (with gated entrance ways) will secure the current boundary of the site. Site Security – Currently OneRen operate security lighting for the existing pavilion building. The Club proposes to install similar security lighting to the new club house. To date, the Club is not aware of any issues raised by residents regarding use of security lighting on site. Grounds Maintenance – The Club has the equipment and in-house expertise to carry out grounds maintenance once asset transfer is completed. The cricket square (consisting of 10 strips specified for use by First XI Team through to the Junior XI Teams) is currently repaired and maintained by the Club. Following asset transfer the Club anticipates the outfield will require to be cut twice a week (total of 4 hours) during the playing season. Therefore, the Club proposes to purchase a grass cutting tractor. This activity will initially be undertaken by qualified volunteer ground-staff identified from the Club membership. Once fully Page 57 of 170
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23 | Page established on the site, the Club proposes to employ part-time/sessional ground-staff to maintain Club grounds throughout the year. Facility Maintenance – A budget for facility maintenance has been identified as part of preparing the financial forecast for the Business Plan. Currently maintenance activities are undertaken by members of the Club where possible, with professional trades/services contracted to ensure warranties, insurances, licences remain valid. Venue Hire – Booking requests will be made to the Club Secretary via the Club website. The Club website is hosted by Pitchero. This online platform (developed specifically for sports clubs) provides access to online membership registration, payment facilities and mobile Apps. Community groups wishing to hire the facility on a regular basis will be offered affiliate membership of Renfrew Cricket Club. Private bookings for birthday parties / funeral teas will be made by arrangement. Community Engagement – The Club will continue to actively engage with local community groups and residents. Match fixtures are publicised via Paisley Daily Express as well as via the Club’s social media channels. Club contact details are displayed on its website. Exterior Lighting – The Club anticipates lighting within the grounds will be required to extend use of the site during the winter season. The Club will explore options in consultation with Club members and local residents. High-ball Catching Net – In 2004, the Club installed a High-ball Stop netting system along the perimeter edge of the site (closest to residential housing). The ball stop netting system will continue to be used throughout the playing season. Section 5 - Evidence of Need / Fit with Local Strategies Evidence of Need - Renfrew Cricket Club - As a Community of Interest, Renfrew Cricket Club provides its members with an opportunity to play and participate in the sport of Cricket. As previously mentioned, the Club has changed grounds twice during its history, most recently in 2005, when the Club relocated to King George V Playing Fields on Haining Road, Renfrew. Renfrew Cricket Club is known as being a multi-cultural, ethnically diverse cricket club with a strong community focus. The Club currently has 90 registered members and provides a positive environment for individuals to learn and express themselves through the sport of cricket, whether that be playing, coaching, umpiring and/or scoring. The Club membership is there keen to secure the long-term future of the Club. To this end, the Club has requested the long-term lease of its current grounds through Renfrewshire Council’s Community Asset Transfer (CAT) process. As part of preparing the CAT request the Club surveyed its members in 2023 to determine the level of support for the CAT request. 100% of the membership indicated they were in support of the CAT request. Page 58 of 170
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26 | Page Local Community Profile – The Renfrew cricket pitch is located in SIMD datazone S01012174 which is ranked 8th most deprived in Scotland. 4 The site is located in Ward 1 - Renfrew North (Renfrewshire Council) and forms part of the Scottish Parliament constituency Renfrewshire North and West and the Westminster constituency Paisley and Renfrewshire North. Renfrew North (Ward 1) – A profile of the local community published by Renfrewshire Council based on data sourced from the 2011 Scotland Census presents the following profile of the local community: ● Almost 13,000 people live in the area (approximately 6,000 households). ● Renfrew North incorporates housing estates of Kirklandneuk and Loanhead. ● The population breakdown is 51.6% female / 48.4% male ● The area has a larger proportion of working-age population compared with Renfrewshire total ● 3.99% of the population have an Asian, Asian Scottish, Asian British background. This is higher than the Renfrewshire average (1.78%) ● 37% of people aged 16 and over are single (Renfrewshire average 38.60%). ● 70% of working age residents are economically active which is higher than the whole of Renfrewshire (68.74%) ● Over half of all households are purpose-built blocks of flats or tenement (51.56%). This is considerably higher than the Renfrewshire average (41.08%). Over one quarter of households are owned outright ● There are similar levels of deprived households when compared to the whole of Renfrewshire ● Household information indicates: o 41.79% one person households – which is higher than the total for Renfrewshire (38.60%) o 11.11% of households are living in rented accommodation (private landlords / letting agencies) which is higher than the Renfrewshire average (9.05%) o 3% of all households in Renfrew North have no central heating which is higher in proportion to households throughout the whole of Renfrewshire (2.24%) ● 81% of people believed they had ‘very good or good health’ ● 70% of people have no long-term health conditions ● Approximately 10% of people provide unpaid care ● Approximately one-third of households in Renfrew North are deprived in one dimension compared to 31.52% of households across Renfrewshire Evidence of Need - Local Community Profile – The table below summarises how the Club’s proposal to secure the long-term lease of Renfrew Cricket Grounds will address evidence of need identified within the local community. 4 Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation 2020v2 postcode lookup file - gov.scot (www.gov.scot) Page 61 of 170
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29 | Page SportScotland’s Corporate Strategy Sport for Life – Renfrew Cricket Club’s proposal will directly contribute towards the achievement of 4 (of 5) SportScotland’s objectives as detailed in their Sport for Life corporate strategy e.g. Making sport more accessible; Providing opportunities to progress; Contributing to an active Scotland; Celebrating the benefits of sport. Renfrew Cricket Club will contribute towards the achievement of these objectives by: ● Providing a safe and accessible space for delivery of community-based sports activities. For Renfrew Cricket Club, accessibility includes physical accessibility, valuing cultural diversity, promoting participation, equality of opportunity and promoting inclusive communities.10 ● Providing progression routes for those engaged in cricket whether that be recreational, amateur, or professional level. ● Delivering community engagement events designed to encourage wider participation in the sport / engaging with children and young people through the Active Schools programme through delivery of Kwik Cricket games and coaching sessions Sport Scotland’s Changing Lives Initiative – Renfrew Cricket Club’s proposal directly links to this initiative. The Club’s core activities demonstrate how physical activity and sport can be used to ‘bring about positive benefits for individuals and communities, to address specific needs’.11 Research which underpins the Changing Lives initiatives, indicates physical activity and sport can deliver a number of positive changes including: ● Preventing death and diseases ● Reducing health harming behaviours, anxiety, social isolation, depression, suicide, dementia, and Alzheimer ● Improving brain health, behaviour at school and engagement in school learning ● Developing teamwork, social and communication skills ● Building social capital, connectedness, and sense of belonging ● Making savings for the NHS The continued delivery of the Club’s core activities will therefore directly contribute towards the Changing Lives agenda. National Surveys - Findings from national surveys indicate evidence of need for activities which support broader need within our communities for health and wellbeing activities. Scottish Health Survey 2021 – This publication provides information on the health of adults and children in Scotland. Survey findings indicate: ● The average level of mental wellbeing among adults has declined from 49.8 in 2019 to 48.6 in 2021.12 According to GHQ-12 scores, one in 5 adults showed signs of possible psychiatric disorder. 10 Renfrew Cricket Club’s approach to accessibility has been informed by The National Lottery Community Fund’s approach as detailed in their document ‘Equality Matters: A Good Practice Guide’ 11 Sport for Change research, Robertson Trust (2017) 12 Indicated by the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS) Page 64 of 170
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32 | Page Disability Sport – Increasing opportunities for everyone to participate in sport Continuity of Club activities will enable the Board to develop existing provision and join the Disability Champion Clubs Cricket Programme (funded by the England Cricket Board) Section 7 – Anticipated Outcomes The Club anticipates the following outcomes will be achieved as a result of securing the long-term lease of the Renfrew Cricket Pitch: The future of a sports-based asset in Renfrew will be secured – The Club has operated from Renfrew Cricket Pitch since 2005. The asset is therefore an established part of the local community in Renfrew and has provided an accessible space for the delivery of cricket- based sports and social activities. The successful transfer of the asset will ensure the grounds are managed / operated by the community. The future of Renfrew Cricket Club will be secured – Asset transfer will ensure the long- term viability and sustainability of Renfrew Cricket Club and its activities: o Security of Tenure - The Club has operated from these grounds since 2005. Security of tenure will enable the Club to develop and grow its activities for the benefit of members and the local community. o Development of Membership - Members will benefit from ongoing provision of cricket- based activities. More opportunities will created for members to play at a competitive level and / or for recreational/social purposes. The Club proposes to increase Club membership by 10-15% over the next three years. o Viability of The Club - Security of tenure will provide the Management Committee with greater flexibility re: Club finances. Operational savings will be made. The Club will no longer need to hire changing facilities (current cost of pavilion hire is £3,500 approx per playing season), enabling savings to be diverted to the delivery of activities and events for Club members and the wider community. The Club proposes to increase income over the next three years through increased membership, club sponsorship and Frogbox live streaming service. o Improving Facilities for Cricket in Renfrewshire – The development of the site and creation of a new clubhouse will ensure Renfrew Cricket Club’s facilities are in line with Cricket Scotland’s standards for hosting higher profile regional events/matches. This will make Renfrewshire an attractive place to visit and play sports. Page 67 of 170
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37 | Page Renfrewshire Council Outdoor Net Hire £1,000 Trophy Purchases £511 WDCU Fees £140 Club Insurance Premium (cover) £270 Printing, Postage, Stationery £21 Advertising and Marketing £- Payment to Professional £4,089 Sponsorship consultancy fee £500 Telecommunications and data costs £100 Accountancy Fees £- Consultancy Fees £500 TOTAL £16,742 Impact of Covid Pandemic – With the exception of 2019 and 2020, accounts show the Club has generated an operational Surplus each year. As experienced by many Clubs, the Covid Pandemic significantly impacted on the running of the Club. Club income from team kits, Club socials and fundraising events was significantly reduced. Club Sponsorship – The Club actively seeks corporate sponsorship opportunities. Appendix 3 sets out the Sponsorship Package offered by the Club. In 2022, sponsorship generated income totalling £5,970. Securing the long-term lease of the cricket pitch, securing/improving the existing site, and investing in new Club facilities (Clubhouse, in-door nets etc.), will enable the Club to develop its sponsorship package. The Club has identified options to ‘live stream’ matches through Frogbox software. Providers of Frogbox indicate their software has generated ‘over 4 million total views from their audiences around the world’. Use of Frogbox would provide an additional incentive for corporate sponsors looking to reach global markets. Additional Income – Improving Club facilities by locating a new modular clubhouse on site will help to attract new members to the Club, increase income from membership subscriptions and provide new income generation opportunities: ● Venue hire – The Club House will be available for hire (@ £10 per hour) by local community groups with the potential to generate £1,000 during its first year. ● Kitchen sales (soft drinks, tea, coffee and light snacks) – The Club House will provide all- year-round facilities with potential to generate £1,000 during Year 1 from club socials ● Fundraising – In-door facilities will support delivery of fundraising events throughout the year, with potential to raise £1,600 for Club funds in Year 1. ● Winter season – Improved facilities will enable the Club to generate income (£960 in Year 1) through hire of grounds during the winter season e.g. for out-door football training (October – March). Appendix 1 details the proposed hours of operation for the Club House and availability for let as community meeting space. Page 72 of 170
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38 | Page Anticipated Savings – The phased delivery of the project will also enable the Club to make incremental savings. Subject to the successful outcome of the Community Asset Transfer request, payment of out-door net fees to OneRen will cease by 2025 (NB 2023 Management accounts indicate Outdoor Net Hire costs totalling £7,067). Securing the site and club equipment from vandalism will also reduce expenditure on maintenance and repair (approx. £500-£1,000 per annum). As Club facilities are improved, so the need to pay for the hire of indoor winter training facilities in Glasgow will be removed. Ongoing income generation – The Club anticipates the new clubhouse will be fully operational by Playing Season 2026. The Club will continue to identify opportunities to let the clubhouse and outdoor space when not in use by Club members. As the Club moves forward with improvement to its facilities and activities on site, it is anticipated that the Club will continue to attract new members. This will increase income generated through membership fees, team kits, donations/fundraising and club socials. Page 73 of 170
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RCCATDN-B Chief Executive Service Head of Economy & Development: Alasdair Morrison Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley PA1 1JB www renfrewshire.gov.uk My Ref: RCCAT/DN-B/SI/RCC Contact: Sandra Inrig Telephone: 0141 487 1447/07483 395 945 Email: sandra.inrig@renfrewshire.gov.uk Date: 11 November 2024 ASSET TRANSFER UNDER THE COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT ACT DECISION NOTICE - REFUSE Mr Sajid Majeed Secretary, Renfrew Cricket Club Date of notice: 11/11/2024 Dear Sai This Decision Notice relates to the asset transfer request made by Renfrew Cricket Club on 16/09/2024 in relation to Renfrew Cricket Field, Haining Road, Renfrew PA4 0AN (UPRN: 123121137). I regret to inform you that the Community Asset Transfer Subcommittee of Renfrewshire Council met on the 6th of November 2024 and has decided to REFUSE the request. The reasons for this decision are as follows: That there are obligations imposed on the authority that prevent, restrict or otherwise affect its ability to agree to the request (Section 82(3)(i) of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015); being, the obligation to ensure adequate education provision in the area. It is reasonably anticipated that the asset may require to be used for expansion of school provision within the term of the lease requested, there being no other suitable space in Council ownership in the vicinity. Right to Request a Review You have a right to request a review of this decision. An application for Review must be made in writing to Mark Conaghan, Head of Corporate Governance, Renfrewshire Council, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Appendix 2 Page 90 of 170
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Paisley PA1 1WB or by email to mark.conaghan@renfrewshire.gov.uk and be received by 9 December 2024, being not more than 20 working days from the issue date of this letter. Your application for a review must include • the name and contact address of your community transfer body, and specify the land to which the asset transfer request • a statement setting out your reasons for requiring a review and cover all matters which your community transfer body intends to raise in the review; you can also state by what procedure you consider the review should be conducted, for example, on the basis of written submissions or if there should be a hearing session or another procedure, such as a site visit. • a list of documents and other evidence supporting the case. Reviews will be conducted by the Council Appeals Committee. Having carried out the review, the Council must issue a new decision notice, to replace this one, within 6 months of the date of the application for review. If the outcome of the Review does not resolve the issue, or if no decision is made within the required period, you have a right to Appeal to the Scottish Ministers under section 88 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015. Full guidance on making an application for review or appeal is available in the Guidance for Community Transfer Bodies and to download from the Council Website. Yours sincerely Alasdair Morrison Head of Economy and Development Page 91 of 170
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Community Asset Transfer Internal Review Request – Document Pack Property: Renfrew Cricket Pitch, Haining Road, Renfrew PA4 0AN Applicant: Renfrew Cricket Club Date of Decision Notice: 11 November 2024 Date of Receipt of Review Request: 9 December 2024 Documents Enclosed 1. Request for Internal Review with attached correspondence Pages 2-12 2. Additional Correspondence Pages 13-14 3. Site Plan Page 15 4. Renfrewshire Council Draft Sports Pitches, Playing Fields and Pavilions Assessment Report - April 2014 Pages 16-79 Appendix 3 Page 1 Page 92 of 170
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Dear Mark Conaghan Internal Review request for RENFREW CRICKET CLUB CAT request, refusal by CAT Subcommittee on 6 Nov 2024 for site (UPRN 123121137 ) Renfrew Cricket Field, Haining Rd, Renfrew. We are requesting an internal review on the decision taken by the CAT Subcommittee based on several reasons with the main reason being the commitment made by Renfrewshire Council and its departments when Renfrew Sports & Atheltic Club, of which Renfrew CC amongst other clubs was a member/ section of. In 2004 the members of RS&A were requested by the council to give up our lease at Moorcroft for the new Renfrew Sprts Centre to be built on the site. RS&A had a 60-year lease which we relinquished in 2004 on the conditions that each of the sections were rehoused in suitable alternative sites with equivalent lease terms. At that time Renfrew CC and Renfrew Victoria BC both agreed on the verbal promise on the request of RC as to avoid delays with Leisure Centre project whereas the third section the Physical culture dug in its heels and would not vacate the site until they received written assurances and an alternative site with lease terms. We were informed that as the alternative sites we were be relocated to were still in the design and build stage RC could not execute any legal lease documentation. We were informed by RC representatives that Renfrew CC would move to Robertson Park for one year then to the new ground at KGV. We had regular meetings with Head of Renfrewshire Leisure or Education, Bob Saunders, Frank Hughes from the legal department and Gordon Pettigrew who was the project manager for the site at KGV. There were several issues, which I will not go into at this time, but eventually we moved into the site at KGV as keyholders for the pavilion and a separate miracle span building for equipment storage and the use of the cricket field where we maintained the cricket square. During this time we continually had meetings with RC representatives to formalise a long term lease, this was never done, we did at one point have a five year lease, we were given the runaround and many excuses were given including that the site was common good land and a lease was not possible, we were able to prove later on this was not the case. Our keyholder status was withdrawn a few years later due to other users having access to the pavilion and miracle span building, we had been responsible key holders and the reasons given were as above. In the subsequent years our access to the pavilion and kitchen facilities were curtailed and everything we were promised and expected became more and more distant In 2014 there was a Renfrewshire Playing Fields Strategy which resulted in several consultation meetings which RCC were invited to, with the feedback gathered from multiple clubs and sports the strategy was approved and funding of £5M allocated and matched by Sports Scotland including developments to the cricket facilities. The work on the cricket facilities eventually started after delays in 2018 and were completed in 2020 for the outdoor practice nets and the new square in 2020, although never completed and poorly constructed. Page 2 Page 93 of 170
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We first engaged with RC in 2018 with Gillian Beatie for the CAT process when we were advised this was our best course of action in obtaining a long-term lease for the site and securing the future of our club. Even this process was problematic with many delays, and we eventually submitted our complete application in 2024. I hope you can understand our frustration and disappointment we have experienced with RC, with the initial commitment regarding the lease never being honoured and the many issues with the contractors appointed by RC to complete the projects we faced. Throughout this time, we have continued as a club playing a valuable part in our community, even when facing many difficulties presenting themselves caused by the incompetence of RC officers and contractors. We have requested the internal review based on the commitments made to us by RC at the KGV site and the subsequent facility developments where Renfrewshire Council and Sports Scotland funds have been used. Throughout these times there was never any mention of a potential school project on the site, we have spent a great deal of time and money on developing the site and a great deal of time in preparing and submitting the CAT request with time and effort spent on grant applications to further develop the site as part of the CAT request. So, for it suddenly be the reason for the refusal of the CAT request was an extreme shock to us all and if we had been given the lease as promised we would not be having this discussion. I have attached as much correspondence as I am able to access now, the older communication would have been in writing, I am unable to access that now as I was abroad when I received the news of the CAT request refusal and still am, not returning till the 13th of Dec. I will try and see what correspondence I can locate as several of the RCC officials are no longer at the club or sadly passed away. You will also see from this correspondence that RCC explored other alternative sites, of which none were suitable and it was agreed to continue at KGV with the approval of RC. I can however confirm that the meetings we attended with Frank Hughes were also attended by Stuart Wild an official of Renfrew Victoria Boys Club, he can corroborate the commitments given to us by Frank Hughes in return for relinquishing our lease, I will forward an email from Stuart.It is common sense to understand, why would we give up our lease unless we would have an equivalent lease if not better in return. Regards Sajid Majeed Secretary Renfrew Cricket Club Page 3 Page 94 of 170
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: Playing fields strategy report • To · Sat, 8 Nov 2014 at 13:25 Message Body Hi Guys Enclosed Playing Fields Strategy which was approved by Sports Board yesterday....ratified Full Council next week!! I think the report is very comprehensive and whilst long in pages etc the principles are positive. Ive spoken to Angela Conboy ref certain issues which should be noted by both RSN / Renfrew CC re KGV...PL NOTE VIZ... 1 With the inevitable move of Culture / Sport to RL...Currently uncertain who [Manager / Implementation Group] is going to LEAD ? 2 St James and KGV are apparently "Strategic" and top priority...BUT EXTRA INVESTMENT MAY BE REQUIRED 3 I am assured that the "Strategic" issues will NOT be pushed aside in priority to the benefit of rectifying Football pitches. 4 The ref to "Long term leases" is very positive within the context of the development of self sufficient / ownership of Clubs and on the REAL objectives of Community / Sport Development / Neighbourhood Management etc...HUBs etc 5 4 does NOT apply apparently to St James / KGV because of the "Strategic" categorisation...THIS WILL BE ON THE RSN AGENDA as this restricts grant applications for RCC 6 The proposed movement of RCC in re-alignment of KGV is live and apparently within Planning etc...THIS REQUIRES URGENT "PUSH" 7 The ref to HUBs linkage to Clubs is positive 8 The "scrutiny" process has NOT been identified...role for RSN / HUBs? 9 The issues ref overall HUB funding requires FORMAL Clarification...[various responses at various Meetings] Page 4 Page 95 of 170
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were looking at other pavilion/dressing room options for the other side of KGV, these changes were never mentioned to us. I have been involved in many discussions/meetings with rerpresentaives of Renfrewshire Council , Renfrewshire Leisure and Renfrewshire Education for our move from Moorcroft to KGV, we have been spun many false promises and commitments have been broken by a number of individuals on numerous occasions. Rather than supporting voluntary community clubs, which is what the Hubs have been doing , we have been consistently let down and I am now concerned whether their is a hidden agenda against our club as I cannot see a logical reason for issues we have been having. It is not unreasonable of us to request a meeting urgently to discuss the new and ongoing issues which are hindering the development of our club. Regards Sai Majeed On Friday, 13 April 2018, 13:16:59 BST, Fraser Buchan wrote: Hi Sai. I've spoken with Fiona Watson, she has passed your concerns on to Mark Tokeley. He is on annual leave this week but back on Monday. The KGV Pavilion has had a change of use since December 2017 and is used as an administration base for the Sport Services Team. The toilets and the kitchen area are for staff use only and have been removed from the booking process. Mark or Darryl will get back to you next week to discuss other options and a way forward. Kind Regards, Fraser. Page 9 Page 100 of 170
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discussed as part of our requirements for the new facility, It seems that decisions are being made without communicating with the clubs who may be affected by these decisions. We were requested to give up our lease at Moorcroft , with the offer of relocation to KGV and a comparable lease to be given to the club, 14 years and a number of meetings , with various RCC employees , on we are still waiting for this and every year there are changes made which impact on the operation of our club. The lack of a lease also impinges on the club being unable to apply for certain grant funding. We would appreciate very much if we can move forward and resolve the issues noted. Regards Sai Majeed Secretary Renfrew Cricket Club Page 12 Page 103 of 170
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From: Sai Majeed To: Mark Conaghan Subject: Fw: RCC CAT appeal Date: 09 December 2024 14:09:09 Dear Mark Email forwarded as noted in the previous email. Kind Regards Sajid Majeed Renfrew CC Secretary ----- Forwarded message ----- From: Stuart Wild To: Sent: Monday 9 December 2024 at 00:02:37 GMT Subject: Fwd: RCC CAT appeal Evening Sai, Apologies for not replying sooner to your request for clarification on the discussions surrounding the relocation of the 3 clubs who were based at the Moorcroft Playing Fields. My club Renfrew Victoria YFC joined the group in 1991 shortly after it had been taken over from its previous custodians Babcock Sports Club to their cricket and weights sections. Unfortunately none of the office bearers at that time have sadly passed away. A debt of gratitude has to be recognised to the original committee for securing a facility where sports could continue in the town. In my recollection over the extensive discussions with Bob Saunders, Frank Hughes and Gordon Pettigrew was to relocate the 3 clubs that were using the facility and surrounding grounds so all sports could continue to grow and flourish within the town. At this time Bob and Frank attended numerous meetings due to the complexity of the original lease which had 50+ years remaining. It was always stressed by the council office bearers that due to the way the original lease was written the 3 groups could safely remain at Moorcroft for the remainder of the lease. This option was never something the 3 clubs would have considered as the last thing we all wanted was to stand in the way of a Leisure Centre being constructed which would benefit the residents of Renfrew and surrounding areas. Your own section provided separate challenges from the other sports and they were swiftly relocated in the town. In my recollection a number of sites were offered to Renfrew Cricket Club and the preferred location was KGV. This would add another sport to assist in the future redevelopment of KGV and building the Leisure Centre with Sportscotland/Big Lottery funding . This could then boast football,cricket,rugby,american football and hockey all outdoor using the facilities and the indoor activities the construction of a leisure centre would offer. Originally the offer was made to the cricket section to construct a clubhouse on the site of the old changing rooms and building a new square on the area of pitches 3&6. A new “show” pitch was to be laid on the current site which the cricket currently use. Due to funding timescales being short this was not the preferred option of the council officials due to cricket regulations which would allow the club to compete in the higher levels of the sport. Bob and Frank were very firm and honest stating that the length of lease given on the Moorcroft site would never be considered by any current or future administrations and a 25 year agreement would be more realistic to negotiate which would allow Renfrew Cricket Club to access funding streams to upgrade facilities allowing not only the club but also the council to benefit with no associated cost. Unfortunately these agreements were made on verbally as the time factor being critical to accessing the funds to allow the KGV/Leisure Centre project to proceed and short term rolling leases were agreed to allow all clubs to continue and investigate the possibility of CAT which were being considered by council officials with the bill being driven through parliament by local MP Derek Mackay at the time. Page 13 Page 104 of 170
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I appreciate this is over 20 years ago and Frank,Bob,Gordon are no longer in the council and Derek Mackay no longer a MP so no one to corroborate my recollections. Hopefully my recollection of events can add some background to the discussions held in what would have been 2002. Everyone involved at the time had to give and take a little but the aim was always to keep the 3 sport’s flourishing which is a testament to all involved to see that they are all still active in the town today. Regards, Stuart Wild Renfrew Victoria YFC Chair Page 14 Page 105 of 170
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Integrity, Innovation, Inspiration 1-2 Frecheville Court off Knowsley Street Bury BL9 0UF T 0161 764 7040 F 0161 764 7490 E mail@kkp.co.uk www.kkp.co.uk RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL DRAFT SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS AND PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT REPORT APRIL 2014 Page 16 Page 107 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT CONTENTS PART 1: INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................... 1 PART 2: CONTEXT .......................................................................................................... 2 2.1: National context ................................................................................................... 2 2.2: Sports Governing Body (SGB) context .............................................................. 4 2.3: Local context ........................................................................................................ 6 PART 3: SPORTS PITCH STRATEGY METHODOLOGY ............................................... 9 3.1 Preparing an inventory of facilities ...................................................................... 9 3.2 Determining pitch quality ................................................................................... 10 3.3 Estimating demand ............................................................................................. 10 3.4 Comparing supply and demand ......................................................................... 11 3.5: Report structure ................................................................................................. 13 PART 4: FOOTBALL ..................................................................................................... 14 4.1: Introduction ........................................................................................................ 14 4.2: Current supply of grass pitches ....................................................................... 15 4.3: Demand ............................................................................................................... 20 4.4: Key issues for football ....................................................................................... 22 4.5: Capacity analysis ............................................................................................... 27 PART 5: CRICKET ......................................................................................................... 32 5.1: Introduction ........................................................................................................ 32 5.2: Current provision ............................................................................................... 32 5.3: Demand ............................................................................................................... 34 5.4 Key issues for cricket ......................................................................................... 35 PART 6: RUGBY ............................................................................................................ 37 6.1: Introduction ........................................................................................................ 37 6.2: Current supply of grass pitches ....................................................................... 37 6.3: Demand ............................................................................................................... 39 6.4: Key issues for rugby union ............................................................................... 40 PART 7: SYNTHETIC GRASS PITCHES ....................................................................... 44 7.1 Current provision ................................................................................................ 44 7.2 Quality .................................................................................................................. 47 7.3 Availability ........................................................................................................... 50 7.4 Usage ................................................................................................................... 50 7.5: Hockey ................................................................................................................ 51 7.6 Football use of SGPs .......................................................................................... 52 7.7 Rugby use of SGPs ............................................................................................. 53 PART 8: EDUCATION ................................................................................................... 54 8.1: Introduction ........................................................................................................ 54 8.2: Current provision ............................................................................................... 54 8.3: Secondary schools ............................................................................................ 54 PART 9: SUMMARY ...................................................................................................... 58 PART 10: CONSULTEE LIST ........................................................................................ 59 Page 18 Page 109 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 1 PART 1: INTRODUCTION This is the Draft Sports Pitches, Playing Fields and Pavilions Assessment Report prepared by Knight Kavanagh & Page (KKP) for Renfrewshire Council (RC). This factual report presents a supply and demand assessment of sports playing pitch facilities in accordance with the guidance laid out in sportscotland’s ‘Guide to the Preparation of Sports Pitch Strategies’. The specific aims are to: Determine an investment programme that addresses weaknesses in current pitch provision. Provide a planning evidence base for the development of pitches in the Council area. Identify future demands for sports pitches, playing fields and pavilions across the Council area. Outline suggested priorities in the short, medium and long term. Assist in guiding the future development of local plan policies for new provision, protection and enhancement of all sports pitches throughout the Council area. Take account of any local and national strategies and policies deemed appropriate. It focuses on reporting the findings of the extensive research, consultation, site assessment, data analysis and GIS mapping work to: Analyse supply and demand for outdoor sports facilities. Identify gaps in provision and explore opportunities for improved provision. Inform a strategy incorporating possible future options and an action plan. The following types of outdoor sports facilities are included: Football pitches Cricket pitches Rugby pitches Synthetic grass pitches (SGPs) including hockey Each section provides a quantitative summary of provision and a map showing the distribution of facilities. It also provides information about the availability of facilities to/for the local community and, the details of the governing body of each sport and regional strategic plans (where they exist). Local league details are provided, where possible, in order to outline the competitive structure for each sport. The findings of club consultation and key issues for each sport are also summarised. This assessment report provides the foundations on which the subsequent Sports Pitch Strategy is built on. Together the two documents will help inform and direct the Council’s decision making for sports pitch facilities and provision. Page 19 Page 110 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 2 PART 2: CONTEXT 2.1: National context sportscotland Corporate Plan: Developing and supporting a world class sporting system The plan builds upon the work established in the previous corporate plan (2009-11) and sets out in the vision that ‘by 2020 people in Scotland will be enjoying the benefits of an active life to create a more successful country, with opportunities for all of Scotland to flourish, through increasing sustainable economic growth’. Described within the document are the approaches to be taken, the key programmes and the high level indicators to be used up to 2015. To achieve the quality and ambition wishing to be applied a number of measures are listed in order to determine success. These are: Major progress is made in all key areas required for the development of a world class sporting system. 2011-2015 is the most successful four year cycle for Scotland in terms of performance outcomes (London 2012, Sochi 2014 and Glasgow 2014). All our supported performance athletes are the best ever prepared for all targeted events through the provision of quality services. An increasing number of Scottish Governing Bodies (SGBs) are fit for purpose and fit for performance. Major progress in growing sustainable levels of competent and skilled coaches, officials, administrators, specialists (paid and voluntary) within Scotland. A greater and more integrated role for outdoor and adventure sport, maximising Scotland’s unique attributes and heritage. Stronger club networks with greater community involvement. Increased sports opportunities for children and young people through schools and improved access to the school estate. Organisation development strengthens the impact of our work and we are driven by continuous quality improvement. sportscotland is seen as one of the leading public bodies in Scotland in terms of delivery, effectiveness and efficiency. Scottish Executive: Strategy for physical activity ‘Let’s make Scotland more active’ is the physical activity strategy published by the Scottish Executive’s Physical Activity Task Force in 2003. The Strategy outlines the risks of inactivity and the benefits of more active lifestyles. It recognises the role that sport plays in increasing physical activity, alongside active living, recreational activity, exercise, play and dance. The following vision and goals are outlined: Vision – ‘People in Scotland will enjoy the benefits of having a physically active life.’ Goal – ‘To increase and maintain the proportion of physically active people in Scotland.’ Page 20 Page 111 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 3 One of the key strategic objectives underpinning the strategy is: ‘To develop and maintain long lasting, high quality physical environments to support inactive people to become active.’ Again, the provision of good quality, accessible and sustainable indoor and outdoor sports facilities can play a major role in increasing opportunities for physical activity. Reaching Higher: Building on the success of sport 21 The Strategy sets out the long term aims and objectives for sport in Scotland up to 2020 including their delivery and evaluation. It follows and builds on the review of Sport 21: 2003-2007. Reaching Higher primarily focuses on sport but recognises the contribution it can have on wider issues and topics such as tackling obesity, mental well-being, cohesive communities, increasing participation and providing forums for social interaction. Four national priorities are established to build and sustain a sporting framework to deliver national outcomes. These are: Well-trained people – motivated, confident and capable coaches, officials, volunteers and professional staff are core to delivery of the vision and in order to get people involved, enthused and reaching their potential. Strong organisations – that are fit for purpose and able to work in partnership to meet the dynamic and changing needs of sport. Quality facilities – including their availability and accessibility are fundamental to people’s participation, enjoyment and performance in sport Providing the player pathways – through agencies working together to ensure opportunities exist and are accessible to those that want to improve their skills and reach their potential. It is highlighted that the success of these priorities is dependent on a range of stakeholders such as national agencies, governing bodies, local authorities, school, clubs, parents and participants. Commonwealth Games Legacy Plan 2014 The document sets out the aims and current successes as part of the Legacy for the 2014 Commonwealth Games. It highlights that 50 national legacy programmes and counting have already been carried out. The Plan also identifies that £10 million Active Places Fund has already supported 64 projects helping to build and improve community facilities. As part of the legacy for the Commonwealth Games, 150 Community Sport Hubs will be created across Scotland by 2016. Scottish Government Youth Sport Strategy The Strategy aims to make sport as accessible and enjoyable as possible in order to increase levels of physical activity for young people. It focuses on boosting participation in sport for pre-school children to further and higher education students. Page 21 Page 112 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 4 2.2: Sports Governing Body (SGB) context Please note that Cricket Scotland’s ‘On the Front Foot’ Strategic Plan ran from 2008-2011 and as yet has not been replaced. Scotland United: A 2020 vision At the core of the document is the strategic pyramid, which sets the Scottish FA’s aims of winning, growing, funding, leading and supporting the game at all levels. Also set out within the plan are the four strategic goals designed to touch all aspects of the game: Performing and winning Strong quality growth Better financial returns Respected and trusted to lead Supplementary goals and aims are set within each of these four goals over a five year period. Under the delivery of the strong quality growth area the level one goal is to double the number of registered players in recreational football. One of the supplementary goals in achieving this is to provide a more attractive modern game for all participants by 2015. This will be done through: Supporting clubs and local authorities with facility related projects and policy Rollout a ‘new season’ initiative (February to November) for all U18 boys football. Address touchline behaviour and referee mistreatment. One National Plan: a vision for grassroots football The vision of the plan is to grow the national game through developing improved performance levels (at all levels), to take the game to a wider audience and expand on the benefits, enjoyment and value football brings across the country. The six main objectives set out within the plan are to: Increase participation Create an attractive modern game Improve coach education and development Create a vibrant volunteer workforce Develop club and school football Produce more talented young players By 2015, the outcomes of the plan include 130,000 registered players, 600 Quality Mark Clubs, 14,000 coaches developed and 1,152 Talented Young Players involved in 36 2020 Development Centres. The Big Pitch It is the Scottish FA’s first facility focused strategy. The document identifies many of the most common facility related issues across the country and what is required for new and improved facilities in the future. Page 22 Page 113 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 5 The Strategy states many grass football pitches are ‘not fit for purpose’ due to poor drainage, uneven surfaces and budgetary pressures. This can potentially lead to a poor introduction to the game for young players resulting in a loss to the game. As the first document of its kind, it is expected to evolve in order to reflect the challenges facing the game. Fundamental to the Strategy is the impact of local authority playing field and pitch strategies. An emphasis is placed on Synthetic Grass Pitches (SGPs) due to the Scottish climate and vast amounts of play taking place on natural turf pitches. Importantly the Scottish FA’s view on new SGPs is for surfaces to preferably be to a 3G standard as a minimum. Inspiring Scotland Through Rugby: The Journey to 2016 The document sets out the vision and key aims for Scottish Rugby Union. It builds upon the previous SRU Strategic Plan (2007-2012). The Plan focuses on five core aspects: Winning teams Thriving club game Increasing match attendance Increasing commercial revenue Improving the customer experience A key action under the aim of ‘thriving club game’ is to increase the number and quality of adult and age grade male and female teams playing rugby regularly in clubs across Scotland. Another related action is to support the delivery of school and university rugby. These are to be achieved by continuing to grow the game at grass roots through work with partners at clubs and local authorities. The SRU Development Officers across Scotland will assist in delivering these actions. Scottish Hockey Facility Strategy The strategy, completed in 2007 and updated in 2009, advises sportscotland and Local Authorities in the placement and maintenance of facilities across the country. It sets out the purpose of the document as being to highlight Scottish Hockey’s (SH) priorities in relation to the continuation of existing hockey activity, the development of increased standards and amounts of activity, the location of facilities and the type of facilities needing to exist. It also identifies the need for maintenance, access and management issues to be considered in order for facilities to achieve their optimum use. A key principle for SH is the development of a mixed facility stock within each Local Authority. This is in order to meet the diverse range of several sports and not just one individual sport. The strategy states that sport specific surfaces, such as water based or 3G, should only occur after multi sport facilities have been provided (especially at school sites). On a local level facilities are required for regular training and matches as well as contributing to the development of club and school hockey. They should also encourage people to play, coach, umpire and volunteer. In addition, the strategy details minimum and ideal specifications/requirements for facilities. Page 23 Page 114 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 6 2.3: Local context Renfrewshire is located towards the south-west region of Scotland, and borders the areas of Inverclyde and North Ayrshire to the west, West Dunbartonshire to the north and East Renfrewshire and Glasgow to the east/south-east respectively. Renfrewshire Sports Strategy The Renfrewshire Sports Strategy is currently in draft form. Once adopted it will in conjunction with this Sports Pitch Strategy look to direct the future development of sports across Renfrewshire. Renfrewshire Leisure Strategy 2013-2018 Follows on from the previous Strategy and sets out the vision, values and aims for Renfrewshire Leisure (RL) over a five year period up to 2018. The vision for RL is improving the health, wellbeing and quality of life of Renfrewshire’s communities through accessible sport and leisure for all. Key to delivering this is the four aims: To improve the health and quality of life of Renfrewshire residents To develop an organisation that is truly customer focused To empower and develop our employees To develop an efficient, effective and lasting business The Strategy also recognises the crucial roles partners, community sports hubs, school links and high quality facilities all play in ensuring successful outcomes in the future. Planning context Scottish Planning Policy The Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) is a statement of the Scottish Government’s policy on nationally important land use planning matters. Set out in paragraph 156 of the SPP is the importance of playing fields as resources for sport, and the need for them to be provided in sufficient quantity, quality and accessibility to satisfy community demand. It advises local authorities to develop a playing fields strategy in consultation with sportscotland (as part of a wider open space strategy). Furthermore, the paragraph identifies that playing fields and sports pitches should not be redeveloped except where the: Proposed development is ancillary to the principal use of the site as a playing field, Proposed development involves a minor part of the playing field which would not affect its use and potential for sport and training, Playing field which would be lost would be replaced by a new playing field of comparable or greater benefit for sport and in a location which is convenient for its users, or by the upgrading of an existing playing field to provide better quality facility either within the same site or at another location which is convenient for its users and which maintains or improves the overall playing capacity in the area, or Page 24 Page 115 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 7 Playing field strategy prepared in consultation with sportscotland has demonstrated that there is a clear excess of sports pitches to meet current and anticipated future demand in the area, and that the site could be developed without detriment to the overall quality of provision. Renfrewshire development plan The Plan is one of two documents to form the Development Plan for Renfrewshire; the other being the Glasgow and Clyde Valley Strategic Development Plan. Together the documents provide the planning policy framework for Renfrewshire. A Strategic Development Plan (SDP) and a Local Development Plan (LDP) will replace these existing two documents in time. The LDP is currently being prepared by Renfrewshire Council. Until this is adopted the Local Plan still sets the policies for planning decisions. Policy L1 under the Wider Environmental Framework section of the Local Plan identifies all pitches as being given a high level of protection. Development proposals will only be considered if the following criteria are met: There is a long term excess in the provision of pitches, playing fields and open space in the wider area, taking into account long term strategy for provision, estimated demand and overall recreational/amenity value. Alternative provision of equal or greater community benefit and accessibility would be made available on another site Proposal incorporates the retention or enhancement of the existing facilities on part of the site, while enabling redevelopment of the surplus section of the site for another purpose The section also recognises that there are a number of blaes pitches at school sites that are no longer considered suitable as quality sports provision. Community Growth Areas The Glasgow and Clyde Valley Structure Plan identify’ 13 Community Growth Areas (CGAs). Johnstone South West and Royal Ordnance Site Bishopton are identified as CGA in Renfrewshire. CGAs are locations that have been selected for their potential to deliver sustainable growth with proximity to key rail and public transport corridors in order to meet demand for new dwellings. One of the community regeneration opportunities set out in the Johnstone South West Masterplan is to improve local community sports facilities. This includes encouraging physical activity by providing quality pitches for sports and play. Approval in principle has been given for the mixed use development at the Royal Ordnance Site Bishopton. This will comprise of circa 2,500 dwellings and will look to include new sports and recreation provision. As part of the CGA Section 75 monies are to be available for the improvement and creation of sports provision in the area. Page 25 Page 116 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 8 Sports development Sufficient sports facilities of the right type, quality and location are essential if the aims of Renfrewshire Council and national strategies such as Reaching Higher (Scottish Government Sports Strategy) are to be achieved. Work with local community organisations, Sports Governing Bodies representing football, rugby, etc along with sportscotland and, Sports Development staff coupled with that of community groups is vital to increasing participation levels. There is a need to address the growing demand for quality facilities, the programming and access of such facilities as well as filling gaps where current provision is not adequate or to a high enough standard in order to encourage the development of sport. Planning for the development of sports played in Renfrewshire is a major consideration in this study and will contribute to action plans and investment decisions for the Council and its partners. Community Sports Hubs Community Sports Hubs (CSH) are designed to make the best use of local facilities in order to give communities more opportunities to participate in sport. They are a collection of local facilities, natural environment and schools that provide a home for local clubs and sports organisations. The CSH were first proposed in the previous Playing Field Strategy in 2009 as a way to improve the management of facilities by working closer with clubs. The specifics of each CSH may differ to the next depending on the local need and resources in that area. However, all hubs have the same five principles: Growth in participation Engage the local community Promote community leadership Offer a range of sporting opportunities Bring all appropriate (key) partners/groups/people together In Renfrewshire there are a total of seven CSH: Renfrew and Gallowhill Paisley South Paisley East Johnstone Ferguslie Linwood Erskine Page 26 Page 117 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 9 PART 3: SPORTS PITCH STRATEGY METHODOLOGY This section of the report details the methodology which has been followed to deliver the findings. sportscotland’s ‘Guide to the Preparation of Sports Pitch Strategies’ (2004) outlines five key steps to producing a sports pitch strategy: 1. Defining the scope of the strategy 2. Preparing an inventory of facilities 3. Estimating demand 4. Comparing supply and demand 5. Produce a Sports Pitch Strategy This document is the evidence of steps 2-4. The key issues identified will then help to inform development of the ‘Strategy and Action Plan’ document to follow. The assessment and analysis in this report is based on Sport England’s (SE) playing pitch strategy methodology (which has been adopted by sportscotland) ‘Towards a Level Playing Field’ (2003). This outlines specific criteria for assessing the quantity, quality, capacity and accessibility of playing pitches and ancillary facilities. It provides clear guidance on assessment of supply and demand for sports pitches and the types and levels of analysis required in order for the local authority to plan effectively to meet local needs. 3.1 Preparing an inventory of facilities A total of 66 sites containing outdoor sports facilities have been identified in Renfrewshire regardless of ownership or usage. The audit covers all outdoor sports facilities for which there is currently organised, structured play on, as follows: Football pitches Cricket pitches Rugby pitches Synthetic grass pitches (SGPs) The ownership and accessibility of sports pitches will also influence their actual availability for community use. The term ‘community use’ has been adopted and defined as: All Renfrewshire Council (RC) and Renfrewshire Leisure (RL) owned sites (regardless of management). School facilities used by community sports clubs for regular competitive fixtures. Any facilities that are owned, used or maintained by clubs/private individuals and which, as a matter of policy and practice, are available to large sections of the public through membership of a club or through an admission fee. Page 27 Page 118 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 10 3.2 Determining pitch quality Auditing sports pitches and assessing the level of availability is largely achieved through site visits. The ‘electronic toolkit’, which accompanies ‘Towards a Level Playing Field’ has been used to collect qualitative information. The pitch assessment sheet is a ‘tick box’ assessment which rates various elements of pitch quality with a separate assessment sheet for changing accommodation. It should be noted that the pitch assessment also takes into account whether changing rooms and car parking exist on the site. However, the total pitch score is not significantly affected. This information is scored, converted into a percentage (of the highest score possible) and also into a qualitative rating. The qualitative ratings for pitch quality are: 90% + An excellent pitch 64-90% A good pitch 55-64% An average pitch 30-54% A below average pitch Less than 30% A poor pitch For ease of analysis, KKP has combined this into a three-point scale: An excellent pitch or good pitch = good quality An average pitch = adequate quality A below average pitch or poor pitch = poor quality The qualitative ratings for changing accommodation quality are listed as: 90% + Excellent 60-89% Good 40-59% Average 30-39% Poor Less than 30% Very poor It should be noted that the club and school surveys and the non-technical pitch assessment sheet in the electronic toolkit all have different scales for rating the quality of pitches and ancillary facilities. On this basis, KKP uses the ‘non-technical pitch assessment sheet’ to assess all pitches in order that consistent information is presented. Database development All information relating to sports pitches across Renfrewshire is collated in the project database (supplied as an electronic file). All sites included within the audit, as identified by RC, supplemented by KKP and assessed by KKP are included within the KKP project database. This includes quality scores from the pitch assessments. 3.3 Estimating demand The first step to identifying current demand for outdoor sports facilities is to determine where all teams play and when. Team identification was undertaken via consultation with governing bodies of sport, leagues and clubs. All clubs playing on outdoor sports facilities in Renfrewshire were given the opportunity to complete a survey which sought to gather views and opinions regarding quality and quantity of provision. In addition, RC officers and national governing body officers advised Page 28 Page 119 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 11 which key clubs to meet with in a series of face-to-face consultations to further discuss issues. Non responding sports clubs were chased via telephone to help secure greater response rates. Information from league consultation is used in situations where clubs were not able to be contacted. 3.4 Capacity Capacity of current pitch stock is calculated by looking at the current number of total matches being played on a site over a week. This is dependent on the number of pitches and their carrying capacity. A pitches carrying capacity is based on the quality rating it receives. Taking into consideration national guidelines on capacity the following was concluded: If a pitch is rated as ‘good’ its capacity is specified as two matches per week. If a pitch is rated as ‘acceptable’ its capacity is specified as one match per week. If a pitch is rated as ‘poor’ its capacity is specified as 0.5 match every other week. Through comparing the number of matches taking place against the ‘capacity’ of a site it is therefore possible to determine which pitches are currently being overplayed. 3.4 Comparing supply and demand Where appropriate (predominately for grass pitches) a seven-stage process has been followed to produce a supply and demand assessment: Identifying teams/team equivalents Calculating home games per team per week Assessing total home games per week Establishing peak demand for pitches Defining pitches used/required on each day Establishing pitches available Assessing the findings Analysis areas For mapping purposes and audit analysis, Renfrewshire is divided into three analysis areas (using ward boundaries – see map overleaf): Renfrew and Paisley area Johnstone and Houston area Bishopton and Erskine area These allow more localised assessment of provision and examination of facility surplus and deficiencies at a local level. Use of analysis areas also allows local circumstances and issues to be taken into account. Page 29 Page 120 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 12 Figure 3.1: Renfrewshire analysis areas Page 30 Page 121 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Draft Assessment: Knight Kavanagh & Page 13 3.5: Report structure The following sections summarise the local administration of the outdoor sports in Renfrewshire. Part 4: Football pitches Part 5: Cricket pitches Part 6: Rugby pitches Part 7: Synthetic grass pitches (SGPs) including hockey Part 8: Education Each provides a quantitative summary of provision and a map showing the distribution of facilities. It also provides information about the availability of facilities to/for the local community and, the governing body of each sport and regional strategic plans (where they exist). Local league details are provided in order to outline the competitive structure for each sport. The findings of club consultation and key issues for each sport are also summarised. It is important to recognise that there may also be a number of other minor sports and pitches/playing fields that sit outside of the scope of this Study; for example, archery and American football. These forms of provision may have a relevance to local communities not just for formal sport but for wider recreational uses and community events. For example, a site containing pitches is likely to not just be used for football; as it is also likely to provide recreational opportunities for local communities to use for informal activities. Page 31 Page 122 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Draft Assessment: Knight Kavanagh & Page 14 PART 4: FOOTBALL 4.1: Introduction The Scottish Football Association (SFA) is the main governing body for both professional and non-professional football in Scotland and Renfrewshire. It has a number of affiliated associations that manage different formats of the game which are summarised below: Table 4.1: Summary of affiliated associations Organisation Role and responsibilities Scottish FA (SFA) The SFA is the governing body for the sport in Scotland, with ultimate responsibility for the administration and running of the professional game and strategic responsibility for the affiliated associations beneath it, as follows. Scottish Amateur FA (SAFA) The purpose of the SAFA is to legislate for, and to foster, the game of football as played by amateurs. It organises a number of cup competitions at National and District level. Scottish Junior FA (SJFA) The Scottish Junior Football Association aims to foster and develop the game of football among all Junior clubs in Scotland. Scottish Schools Football Association (SSFA) The Scottish Schools Football Association oversees primary and secondary school football at regional, national, and international level. Scottish Women’s Football (SWF) The Scottish Women’s Football Association was formed in 1972, when four teams met and decided to form an Association. To date there is in the region of 4,000 players registered with SWF. Women’s football is looked upon as one of the major growth sports. Scottish Youth FA (SYFA) SYFA is the national governing body of youth football in Scotland. It is responsible for every day, recreational, grassroots football in Scotland and includes age groups up to (and including) the age of 21. Scottish Welfare FA Mostly concurrent with the SAFA, it oversees circa 500 clubs for summer and winter football. Scottish Youth FA Review The Scottish FA, in partnership with the SYFA implemented a player pathway in 2011 (mandatory) which has resulted in an increase in the small sided format of the game; providing a better transition through the system. Playing smaller-sided games has been proven to give children an increased number of touches of the ball, while providing more goals and scoring attempts, more one-v-one encounters and a greater chance to attempt dribbling skills. Predominantly the smaller sided formats of the game are played on synthetic pitches across Renfrewshire. There are a number of ‘central venues’ in the area which act as the hosts for the majority of these matches. This is set out in more detail further in the report. Page 32 Page 123 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Draft Assessment: Knight Kavanagh & Page 15 SFA Quality Mark The SFA Quality Mark scheme is designed to support and recognise the work of clubs and teams who have a desire to be the very best they can be. To gain the award clubs must meet a set of criteria. Each accredited club is assigned a Regional Development Manager to support them. As part of the process clubs are provided a number of best practice examples including templates and case studies to help them in their development. In total, 13 football clubs in Renfrewshire have been awarded SFA Quality Mark Standard, Community or Development accreditation. Consultation In addition to face to face and telephone consultation with key clubs, an electronic survey was sent to all known football clubs playing in Renfrewshire, contact details were provided by leagues servicing the Area and background research. The invitation to complete it was distributed by email. The survey was returned by 36 clubs (equating to a 75% response rate). Results are used to inform key issues throughout this section of the report. 4.2: Current supply of grass pitches The audit identifies 33 sites containing grass football pitches in Renfrewshire and providing a total of 63 grass football pitches. Table 4.2: Summary of all grass pitches Of these, 24 sites provide a total of 50 grass football pitches which are available for community use. Table 4.3: Summary of grass pitches available for community use Please note that the audit only assesses dedicated, line marked pitches. It is likely that some younger age groups will play across senior pitches or on informal pitches marked Analysis area Number of pitches 11 v 11 7 v 7 4 v 4 Renfrew and Paisley 33 5 2 Johnstone and Houston 13 1 - Bishopton and Erskine 5 3 1 RENFREWSHIRE 51 9 3 Analysis area Number of pitches 11 v 11 7 v 7 4 v 4 Renfrew and Paisley 28 2 2 Johnstone and Houston 10 1 - Bishopton and Erskine 5 1 1 RENFREWSHIRE 43 4 3 Page 33 Page 124 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Draft Assessment: Knight Kavanagh & Page 16 out with cones. The majority of the smaller sided formats of the game are played on synthetic pitches. The methodology identifies that a senior size 11v11 pitch is recommended at 100m x 60m (not inclusive of a 3m runoff on each side). The minimum size of a youth 7v7 pitch is 60mx 40m and a 4v4 pitch 30m x 20m. The following sites are identified as being available for community use but have no competitive play recorded against them: Erskine (Barwood) Glennifer High School Bridge of Weir Primary School Penilee (Ralston Sports Centre) St Benedict’s High School India Tyres, Inchinnan University of West Scotland Renfrew Leisure Centre Bishopton Primary School Woodlands Primary School A lot of these sites are identified as educational establishments. The three primary schools identify that the pitch provision on site is available for community use. However, no actual play is recorded due to a lack of interest. This is most likely a result of the smaller pitch dimensions and poor quality of surfaces. Woodlands Primary School is the only one to have changing facilities that are available for community use. Both Glennifer High School and St Benedict’s High School highlight that pitches are available but not currently used. Although Glennifer High School has a full size 3G pitch that is used by the community outside of school hours; particularly for mini league and club training. The reason for no community use at St Benedict’s is due to issues with poor drainage on the grass pitches. This results in provision often not being fit for use by the community but also for the school curriculum. The pitches at the Erskine (Barwood), India Tyres and Penilee (Ralston Sports Centre) are all identified as suffering from waterlogging. Subsequently there is no recent or regular competitive matches played on these sites. This is despite some of these sites being solely used by a set club, for example, Park Moor FC at India Tyres. The Club has had to use other sites such as Park Mains High School and Inchinnan Village pitch. As part of the previous playing field strategy several sites were identified for consideration to be available for leasing. These included: Perimeter Road, Linwood Montgomery Avenue, Gallowhill Ardgryffe Park, Houston Houston Road, Bridge of Weir Howwood Moss Road, Bridge of Weir Kilbarchan Park Knockfield Park Lochwinnoch, Viewfield There are a number of these pitches that are currently not available for use. These sites are either not marked or maintained as pitches. The table below summarises the situation for some of these sites and others identified as not in use: Page 34 Page 125 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Draft Assessment: Knight Kavanagh & Page 17 Table 4.4: Council sites currently not available for use Site name Comment Howwood Not marked, no signs of use Ardgryffe Park Poor surface but club interest for lease Durrockstock Originally a GARL replacement pitch. Currently not in use but awaiting water connection Lochfield Not in use due to surface issues Morar Drive Currently not is use but to be re-instated Miller Street Currently not is use but plan to be re-instated for hub use. Awaiting pitch work (rolling/harrowing). Moss Road Park, Bridge of Weir No pitch marked, signs of water logging Houston Road, Bridge of Weir Not marked, no signs of use. standing water noted The Council identifies that a couple of these sites (as indicated in the table) have the potential to be re-instated if required. Clubs report an interest in using sites such as Miller Street, Ardgryffe Park, Moss Road and Houston Road. This is on the basis that pitches are marked and maintained as well as sufficient changing facilities being available. The Council also identifies the potential for two additional pitches to be provided on the King George V (KGV) site. These are currently not in place due to ongoing work by Scottish Water on collapsed drains. The Glasgow Airport Rail Link (GARL) development was to see improvements undertaken to the St James and Ferguslie pitches and changing facilities. As part of the proposed development a series of temporary pitches across Renfrewshire were created to rebalance the loss of pitches at the St James site. As the GARL development never occurred, the improvements to the sites never took place. Page 35 Page 126 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 18 Figure 4.1: Location of all grass football pitches in Renfrewshire mapped by pitch capacity Page 36 Page 127 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 19 Table 4.5: Key to map – Council sites Site name Site ID Analysis area Community use? No. of pitches 11v11 7v7 4v4 Bishopton 12 Bishopton & Erskine Area Yes 2 Erskine (Barwood) 13 Bishopton & Erskine Area Yes 1 Inchinnan 14 Bishopton & Erskine Area Yes 1 India Tyres, Inchinnan 28 Bishopton & Erskine Area Yes 1 1 1 Bridge of Weir Primary School 61 Bishopton & Erskine Area No 1 Bishopton Primary School 67 Bishopton & Erskine Area No 1 Glenpatrick1 6 Johnstone & Houston Area Yes 2 Thomas Shanks 8 Johnstone & Houston Area Yes 2 Kilbarchan 9 Johnstone & Houston Area Yes 1 Lochwinnoch 10 Johnstone & Houston Area Yes 1 Linwood Sports Centre 22 Johnstone & Houston Area Yes 2 Viewfield Park 27 Johnstone & Houston Area Yes 1 St Benedict's High School 51 Johnstone & Houston Area No 2 Woodlands Primary School 57 Johnstone & Houston Area No 1 Houston Primary School 65 Johnstone & Houston Area No 1 Ferguslie Park 3 Renfrew & Paisley Area Yes 2 Moredun 11 Renfrew & Paisley Area Yes 1 St James 16 Renfrew & Paisley Area Yes 7 1 KGV (King George V Playing Fields) 17 Renfrew & Paisley Area Yes 7 Seedhill 18 Renfrew & Paisley Area Yes 2 Penilee (Ralston Sports Centre) 23 Renfrew & Paisley Area Yes 1 Kirklandneuk Playing Field 24 Renfrew & Paisley Area Yes 2 2 Renfrew Leisure Centre 30 Renfrew & Paisley Area Yes 1 Gleniffer High School 43 Renfrew & Paisley Area No 2 St James (overmarked mini on KKP 16) 53 Renfrew & Paisley Area Yes 1 Glencoats Primary School 59 Renfrew & Paisley Area No 1 Heriot Primary School 62 Renfrew & Paisley Area No 1 1 A quarter of land is owned by private contractor; may result in reduction in pitch size to 1x11v11 & 1x7v7. Page 37 Page 128 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 20 Table 4.6: Key to map – private sites Site name Site ID Analysis area Community use? No. of pitches 11v11 7v7 4v4 Thomas Shanks 8 Johnstone & Houston Area Yes 2 Keanie Park 70 Johnstone & Houston Area Yes 1 Ralston 19 Renfrew & Paisley Area Yes 2 Western Park 31 Renfrew & Paisley Area Yes 1 Jenny’s Well Playing Field 35 Renfrew & Paisley Area Yes 1 1 Kibble Playing Field 36 Renfrew & Paisley Area Yes 1 University of West Scotland 55 Renfrew & Paisley Area No 1 Abbotsinch 71 Renfrew & Paisley Area Yes 2 1 The map indicates that the majority of provision is located in the Renfrew and Paisley Analysis Area. However, in general, provision is distributed around the east of Renfrewshire. Accessibility The football club survey responses suggest that nearly three fifths (58%) of players travel between two and five miles in order to play. A further 19% travel up to two miles whilst a further 19% identify players travel over five miles. In addition, some clubs report having to travel greater distances in order to access pitches/facilities for playing and training. These clubs appear to be predominantly from the Johnstone and Houston/Bridge of Weir areas. Mapping also suggests that these areas are lacking in pitch provision. 4.3: Demand There are 49 clubs, providing a total of 251 teams playing on all types of football pitches in Renfrewshire. Of these, 106 teams are identified as playing on grass pitches. The other 145 teams play 4v4 and 7v7 format and are identified as playing on synthetic surfaces. The Renfrew and Paisley Analysis Area has the largest number of teams (71 in total). Table 4.7: Summary of teams playing on grass football pitches In addition to the above, a further 62 teams playing the 4v4 format and 71 teams playing the 7v7 format of the game are identified as also playing in Renfrewshire. Matches for smaller sided formats take place on synthetic grass pitches (SGPs) at ‘central venues’. Analysis area No. of competitive teams 11 v 11 Men 11 v 11 Women 7 v 7 Boys 7 v 7 Girls Renfrew and Paisley 67 - 4 - Johnstone and Houston 20 - - - Bishopton and Erskine 13 2 - - RENFREWSHIRE 100 2 4 - Page 38 Page 129 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 21 SGPs are covered in more detail in Part 7. These teams compete in the Paisley, Johnstone and District Youth League. Sites used to host games are: Johnstone High School – Saturday and Sunday (9am to 12pm both days) Seedhill Sports Centre – Saturday and Sunday (9am to 12pm both days) Park Mains High School – Saturday (9am to 12pm) Ferguslie – Saturday and Sunday (9am to 12pm both days) Ralston Sports Complex – Saturday and Sunday (9am to 12pm both days) The Paisley, Johnstone and District Youth League is the largest football league to service Renfrewshire. A total of 198 teams are identified as playing in the league. It provides a competitive league structure for age groups from six years of age up to 18 years. In total there are nine leagues servicing Renfrewshire for senior football clubs. Paisley and District League Greater Glasgow Premier Football League Glasgow and District Youth Football League Scottish Junior Football League Caledonian Football League Scottish Amateur Football League Glasgow and District Saturday Morning League Strathclyde Saturday Morning League Glasgow Sunday Central Amateur Football League The largest provider of senior football in Renfrewshire is the Paisley and District League; with 19 clubs. Other noticeable leagues identified as containing Renfrewshire based clubs include the Scottish Amateur Football League, Greater Glasgow Premier Football League and the Glasgow and District Saturday Morning League. Temporal demand identifies times of peak demand and use of pitches (for matches only) throughout the course of a week. The peak time usage of 11v11 grass pitches in Renfrewshire is a Saturday pm. Women’s and girls’ football There are a total of 12 women’s and girls’ football teams playing in Renfrewshire; three are identified as senior women’s teams and nine are junior girls’ teams. All 18 teams are provided at seven clubs. It should be noted that girls are able to play within youth teams and mini teams (with boys) up until the age of 15. Subsequently there may be less demand for clubs to specifically field girls’ teams. However, in the last few years the number of girls’ teams in Renfrewshire has grown. The girls’ and ladies teams all compete in the Scottish Women’s Leagues. The League, run by the SFA, has a large geographical spread and is not restricted to Renfrewshire alone. The three women’s teams playing in Renfrewshire are Paisley Saints, Bishopton Ladies and Renfrew Ladies. All three play in the Scottish Women’s Senior League. The seasons for both the women’s and girls’ leagues runs from March to November. This includes a one month hiatus during July (due to school holidays and to allow some respite time). The format changed from the traditional September to May format in order to reduce the impact of games being cancelled during the winter months. Page 39 Page 130 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 22 Women’s football is a priority area for the SFA. In order to increase participation the SFA has a dedicated Girls/Women’s Club Officer. Any significant increase in girls/women’s football is likely to impact in terms of facilities required. Latent demand Latent demand is defined as the number of additional teams that could be fielded if there was access to a sufficient number of pitches. Consultation identifies that there are several clubs in Renfrewshire that currently express demand which they cannot meet due to lack of access to grass pitches. The table below summaries the latent demand identified by consultation. Most latent demand in Renfrewshire is expressed for youth teams. Based on the player pathway system this equates to latent demand for eight teams at the 4v4 game, six teams at the 7v7 game and 16 teams at the 11v11 game. This converts to the need for an additional four 4v4 pitches, three 7v7 pitches and eight 11v11 pitches2. Future demand Through consultation with the SFA and clubs, it is estimated that most likely growth in football will be seen in smaller sided format age groups. Analysis of club survey responses identifies that 14 clubs have plans to increase the number of teams they provide. This predominantly relates to an increase of youth teams; approximately 15 youth boys’ teams and eight girls’ teams in total. Most of these teams are identified by the clubs as being able to be accommodated at existing sites. As most of the teams plan to be at the age level where matches take place on synthetic pitches at ‘central venues’ i.e. Seedhill, Ferguslie, Johnstone High School. Three clubs also highlight plans to increase the number of senior men’s team. Only one states that the additional team could play at an existing site (e.g. Ferguslie). 4.4: Key issues for football Condition/maintenance Generally the issue of flooding and drainage of sites was highlighted by clubs as a common problem in response to the consultation. Often this is cited as being due to insufficient drainage of pitches. Subsequently this regularly results in the cancellation of matches. Drainage and flooding is also identified through the site visit assessments as being an issue. Specific sites where this is an issue are highlighted later in the report. The wet condition of pitches has an impact on the level of grounds maintenance that can be delivered. For instance cutting equipment cannot be used on sites due to prolonged periods of wet weather. This is likely to further exacerbate the need for clubs to be able to access SGP facilities. 2 The number of additional pitches required is based on a team playing on a home and away basis i.e. two additional teams would only require one additional pitch as only one team would be at home each week. 0.5 can be seen in the table where there is latent demand for one team. Page 40 Page 131 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 23 Sites such as St James have historical problems with a high water table; resulting in continuing issues with drainage. The site was identified for improvements to be undertaken as part of the Glasgow Airport Rail Link (GARL) development. Changing facilities on site would also have been improved. As part of the proposed development a series of temporary pitches across Renfrewshire were created to rebalance the loss of pitches at the St James site. As the GARL development never occurred, the improvements to the sites never took place. Subsequently there are a number of pitches that exist that were never intended to be used for such prolonged use. However, since the last Playing Field Strategy there has been upgrading of pitches at sites such as Penilee and Seedhill. Pitch allocation and cost A number of clubs report the process for accessing pitches across Renfrewshire sites as being difficult. The main issue relates to the weekly format of fixtures being released by leagues. Clubs only receive fixtures the week before matches are due to take place. This means clubs all try to find a suitable venue at same time. As a result no block booking of sites/pitches is possible (as a club does not know its fixtures). Several clubs report difficulty in finding a preferred site to play matches. Clubs also highlight some issues with being a hub club but not being able to book pitches within their own hub areas (due to demand outweighing supply). In addition, if a clubs own stock of hub pitches is fully booked they do not have priority for use of other hub area pitches. Hub clubs are clubs that have signed up to one of the seven ‘Community Sports Hubs’ (CSH) in Renfrewshire. These hubs act as a base for local facilities (including pitches) and are designed to make it easier for local people to engage in active lifestyles (i.e. a club signed up to a CSH should access one of the CSH pitches). The cost of pitch hire for match play does not necessarily seem to be an issue for most clubs. Whilst there are some clubs that do refer to the price being expensive, most clubs do not identify cost of pitch hire for match play as being a particular concern. Where an issue is highlighted by clubs is in terms of pitch hire cost for training purposes. Training Nearly all clubs identify that training takes place on SGPs. A couple of clubs identify using grassed areas adjacent or close to their match pitches. However, in general, most clubs access SGPs. The majority of clubs responding to the survey (69%) identify demand for access to additional facilities to accommodate training. This is supported by consultation with clubs met with face to face (e.g. St Peter’s Boys FC, Renfrew Victoria, Erskine YFC). Demand for SGPs is also further demonstrated through their use to accommodate the majority of the smaller sided formats of the game. In addition, the existing SGPs are also used to help catch up on the backlog of matches cancelled as a result of games being called off due to the weather/ poor pitch surfaces. Page 41 Page 132 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 24 Pitch quality3 The non technical site assessments carried out scores over two fifths (41%) of football pitches in Renfrewshire as ‘average’ quality (according to a set criteria considering elements such as grass coverage, evenness of pitch, line markings, goal posts). Individual pitch quality scores can be viewed in the accompanying project database. There is a mixed opinion gained from consultation with clubs. A third of clubs (33%) responding to the survey, suggest that the quality of provision across Renfrewshire (including local authority pitches) is average. Slightly fewer clubs (28%) rate quality of pitch provision as good or poor respectively. Relating to this, most clubs (42%) indicate that there has been no difference in the quality of pitches compared to last season. This is followed by nearly a third of clubs (31%) rating the quality of pitches as being much or slightly worse; a combination of drainage, water logging and inadequate maintenance are given as the main reasons for this. Conversely a total of 17% of clubs responding to the survey suggest pitches are much or slightly better than last season. Reasons for this include pitch/drainage improvement works being undertaken. The table below summarises the quality of pitches following site assessments. All sites were assessed regardless of management, ownership or availability. Table 4.8: Summary of quality for all grass pitches 11 v 11 pitches 7 v 7 pitches 4 v 4 pitches 48 12 3 Good Average Poor Good Average Poor Good Average Poor 18 21 9 3 4 5 1 1 1 Nearly one quarter (24%) of the pitches are assessed as poor quality. The following sites contain pitches which have been assessed as below average: Kilbarchan Lochwinnoch Moredun Bishopton Penilee (Ralston Sports Centre) India Tyres, Inchinnan Renfrew Leisure Centre St Benedict’s High School Woodlands Primary School Bridge of Weir Heriot Primary School Houston Primary School Drainage and issues with flooding are noted for all these sites. Quality and pitch issues for school sites are covered in the education section later in the report. 3 Site assessments were undertaken by KKP during the winter months (February). Page 42 Page 133 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 25 Ancillary facilities Quality of changing facilities in Renfrewshire is variable. The site visit assessments found changing accommodation at most Renfrewshire Council and Renfrewshire Leisure run sports centres as being, in general, of a good standard. The exception to this is the changing accommodation at St James. Facilities on the site are large but considered old fashioned (i.e. a locker style system rather than individual rooms). Clubs also highlight the quality of the changing facilities on site as being in need of attention. Consultation with clubs also highlights that the amount of changing rooms available at KGV do not match with the number of pitches on site (i.e. there is a shortage of changing rooms particularly as officials have to use a set). Within Renfrewshire there are a number of sites with container style changing facilities. These are in most instances viewed by clubs as being of a poor quality. However, container style facilities are not the only changing facilities solely viewed as poor; a number of sites with built changing facilities are also rated poorly. Sites recognised as being in need of repair and/or updating include: Bishopton Moredun Jenny’s Well – non-council (private) site with container style Lochwinnoch – changing facilities closed Inchinnan Thomas Shanks Seedhill – quality sufficient but not enough Both the Thomas Shanks and Lochwinnoch sites have interest from clubs to lease on long term basis. The latter already has an informal agreement of use for Calderglen FC (that would like a more formal agreement). Thorn Athletic FC, Fordbank FC and Johnstone Burgh FC collectively signal an interest in leasing the former. There are also a few sites where a lack of appropriate changing facilities results in the pitches on site not being used. A stipulation for leagues such as Paisley and District Youth League is for changing accommodation to be available at the site. Sites identified as potentially being able to accommodate play but which currently do not due to surface quality issues and a lack of changing facilities are: Ardgryffe Park Bridge of Weir Park Both Ardgryffe and Bridge of Weir sites are identified in the previous Playing Field Strategy as being considered for community lease/use. Houston United identifies an interest in these sites for lease as a home ground. A lack of appropriate changing facilities not only restricts pitch use but also impacts on club growth. The following clubs identify that they could produce more teams if they had access to better quality ancillary facilities. The Council is currently looking to establish Key Holder Agreements in order to help address any issues with access to changing facilities. A ‘key holder’ will be a member of one of the CSHs and will be responsible for unlocking/locking a changing facility. This should help with easier access for users to accommodation. Page 43 Page 134 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 26 Table 4.9: Summary of Council ancillary facility issues Club Site Requirements Glenvale FC Ferguslie Park Increased access to meeting room and equipment storage. Ferguslie Star FC Ferguslie Park Better quality changing facilities. Inchinnan Community Club FC Inchinnan Better quality changing facilities. Johnstone Burgh FC Johnstone area Additional changing and girls facilities Calderglen FC Lochwinnoch. Upgraded changing rooms and showers Paisley Athletic FC St James Bigger and better changing facilities Thorn Athletic Thomas Shanks Additional changing rooms and showers Table 4.10: Summary of Private ancillary facility issues Club Site Requirements St Mirren YFC Jenny’s Well Player and officials changing facilities and small dedicated car park. Parkmoor FC India Drive, Inchinnan Secure changing facilities and better pitch drainage. Renfrew FC Western Park Better ancillary facilities The majority of clubs (86%) that responded to the survey state they have changing facilities available on the sites they use. Most of these clubs rate the quality of changing accommodation as being either good (36%) or poor (33%) quality. Other ratings include average (22%) and do not state (9%). Clubs which rate changing facilities as good quality are using sites such as KGV, Seedhill and Park Mains High School. Those rating changing accommodation as poor are using, for example, other sites such as Ferguslie Park, Lochwinnoch and Thomas Shanks. Facility development A small number of clubs in Renfrewshire report specific pitch/facility development aspirations which are summarised below. The table merely reports what has been highlighted during the consultation process, it is not an indication that clubs are currently in the process of undertaking these plans. For any such development to take place there would be need for the Club to have its own site plus it would require support from partners such as SFA and the Council. Table 4.11: Facility development aspiration Club Aspiration Arkleston Athletic FC Aspiration of own 3G pitch if funding can be secured Renfrew FC Plan to move to new ground; to be built at Blythswood Retail Park in 2014 St Mirren YFC Development of Jenny’s Well Park and other facility initiatives Parkmoor FC Look to attract new youth teams and develop a hub location Bridgewater BC Take boys to 11 a-side format in July 2015 Page 44 Page 135 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 27 In addition to the above, Linwood Community Development Trust highlights plans to develop a 3G football pitch. The Trust is a group of volunteers from the local community with the aim to improve the health and wellbeing whilst reducing social inequalities in the Linwood area. One of the key projects for the group is to develop a 3G facility in the Area; as currently only the two grass pitches at Linwood Sports Centre service Linwood. As part of this, the Trust is currently building a business case towards the development of community/football facilities. 4.5: Capacity analysis This section presents the current pitch stock available for football in Renfrewshire. The capacity tables are presented within the accompanying project database. It illustrates the: Number of pitches rated as Good (G), Average (A) and Poor (P) on each site. Type of pitch(es) on each site (i.e., 11v11, 7v7, 4v4). The column entitled ‘matches per week’ is split into three sections – play, capacity and rating: The current level of play per week (0.5 for each match played at the site, assuming half of matches will be played ‘away’). The capacity of the pitches on each site. The rating of the pitches, which indicates if pitches are played under capacity (green), played at capacity (amber) or played over-capacity (red). Calculation of capacity is based on the qualitative ratings4. Taking into consideration national guidelines on capacity the following was concluded: If a pitch is rated as ‘good’ its capacity is specified as two matches per week. If a pitch is rated as ‘acceptable’ its capacity is specified as one match per week. If a pitch is rated as ‘poor’ its capacity is specified as 0.5 match every other week. 4 Quality ratings of pitches was undertaken by site visits carried out in February 2014 Page 45 Page 136 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 28 Table 4.12: Football pitch quality and capacity summary – Council sites Site ID Site name Analysis area 11v11 7v7 4v4 Actual play Site capacity Capacity rating Site comment G A P G A P G A P 12 Bishopton Bishopton and Erskine Area 1 1 1.5 1.5 Pitch 2 slopes 13 Erskine (Barwood) Bishopton and Erskine Area 1 - 1.0 Waterlogged 14 Inchinnan Bishopton and Erskine Area 1 2.0 1.0 Drainage issues 6 Glenpatrick Johnstone and Houston Area 2 1.5 4.0 ¼ of land privately owned 8 Thomas Shanks Johnstone and Houston Area 2 4.0 2.0 9 Kilbarchan Johnstone and Houston Area 1 0.5 0.5 10 Lochwinnoch Johnstone and Houston Area 1 1.0 0.5 22 Linwood Sports Centre Johnstone and Houston Area 2 2.0 2.0 27 Viewfield Park Johnstone and Houston Area 1 0.5 2.0 3 Ferguslie Park Renfrew and Paisley Area 2 3.0 2.0 11 Moredun Renfrew and Paisley Area 1 1.5 0.5 Flooding issue 16 St James Renfrew and Paisley Area 7 6.5 7.0 17 KGV (King George V Playing Fields) Renfrew and Paisley Area 7 12.0 14.0 18 Seedhill Renfrew and Paisley Area 1 1 2.0 3.0 23 Penilee (Ralston Sports Centre) Renfrew and Paisley Area 1 - 0.5 Waterlogged 24 Kirklandneuk Playing Field Renfrew and Paisley Area 2 2 4.0 4.0 Can waterlog 30 Renfrew Leisure Centre Renfrew and Paisley Area 1 - 0.5 Unused due to quality issues 53 St James (over marked mini) Renfrew and Paisley Area 1 - 2.0 Page 46 Page 137 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 29 Table 4.13: Football pitch quality and capacity summary – Private sites Site ID Site name Analysis area 11v11 7v7 4v4 Actual play Site capacity Capacity rating Site comment G A P G A P G A P 28 India Tyres, Inchinnan Bishopton and Erskine Area 1 1 1 - 1.5 Unusable due to poor quality (Scottish Enterprise 70 Keanie Park Johnstone and Houston Area 1 0.5 2.0 Private club site 31 Western Park Renfrew and Paisley Area 1 0.5 1.0 Private club site 35 Jenny’s Well Playing Field Renfrew and Paisley Area 1 1 2.5 2.0 Private club site 36 Kibble Playing Field Renfrew and Paisley Area 1 0.5 2.0 Private site 71 Abbotsinch Renfrew and Paisley Area 2 1 3.0 6.0 Private club site Page 47 Page 138 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 30 Supply and demand analysis Overplay occurs when there is more play accommodated than the site is able to sustain (which is often dependent upon pitch quality). In summary, six sites are overplayed in Renfrewshire. Of particular note is the amount of overplay/demand expressed at Thomas Shanks and Ferguslie Park. Pitches at both of these sites are assessed as average quality. They are overused beyond their recommended capacity due to the number of fixtures being accommodated. Both sites are used by a variety of clubs. Retaining this level of play at these sites may in the future start to impact on the quality of the pitches. Furthermore, Clubs such as Glenvale FC, Thorn Athletic FC, Kilbarchan FC and Johnstone Burgh FC, which all identify as playing at these sites, are identified as expressing latent demand for additional adult and youth teams. In addition, other sites overplayed, such as Lochwinnoch and Moredun, are rated as having poor quality pitches. Current play identified on both sites could be accommodated if the quality of pitches could be improved. There are four sites being played to capacity in Renfrewshire; Bishopton, Kilbarchan, Linwood Sports Centre and Kirklandneuk Playing Field. Both the Kilbarchan and Kirklandneuk sites have agreements for clubs to use. Any additional play on any of these sites is likely to further reduce the quality of the pitches on site. The Kilbarchan site is rated as a pitch of poor quality as is one of the pitches at Bishopton. Quality of the pitches is likely to be inhibiting the carrying capacity of these sites. Demand for the pitches at the two larger sites of St James and KGV are currently being met. However, this is thought to be as a result of when demand for these pitches is at its peak. Clubs wishing to use the pitches are, in most instances, trying to use them for a Saturday PM kick-off. As there are only so many pitches available on these sites, once all pitches are allocated, clubs have to find another pitch/site. This is to some extant regulating the capacity of the sites when looked at for a weekly basis (as fewer matches are played on the sites outside of Saturdays). There are a number of sites with spare capacity at peak time (14 sites). Spare capacity is more noticeable in the Renfrew and Paisley analysis area. However, the spare capacity at sites is not always genuine and can often be a result of a lack of demand for grass pitches or for other reasons (quality or lack of changing facilities). The site comments column in Table 10.4 identifies any reasons why sites with spare capacity may not be actual (genuine) spare capacity. It is advisable to retain some spare capacity to account for latent demand and overplay of other sites. This can also help with allowing pitches to rest and rotate. The priority should be in addressing those areas of Renfrewshire currently lacking in provision of pitches and at sites showing levels of overuse; important sites such as St James and KGV should also be recognised within this. Any opportunities to address such shortfalls through areas of new housing development should be explored. Key to this rebalancing of pitch provision and use across Renfrewshire is the provision of appropriate changing facilities. As highlighted earlier, there a number of sites with changing facilities in need of repair and/or lacking accommodation completely. Page 48 Page 139 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 31 Football summary The audit identifies 24 sites providing grass football pitches currently available for community use in Renfrewshire, providing a total of 50 grass football pitches. 10 sites are available for community use but have no play recorded against them. There are also circa eight sites currently not available or in use due to surface or ancillary issues. These sites could offer potential capacity/additional pitches where current supply does not meet expressed demand. The majority of provision is located in the Renfrew and Paisley analysis area. There are a total of 251 teams playing football in Renfrewshire (across all surfaces). A total 106 of these teams play on grass football pitches. The Renfrew and Paisley Analysis Area has the largest number of teams (71 in total). Synthetic pitches are used to accommodate the majority of play for the smaller sided formats. During periods of bad weather they are also used to host some senior matches. Site assessments score over two fifths (41%) of football pitches in Renfrewshire as ‘average’. However, nearly a quarter of pitches (24%) score poor for quality. Supporting this, club consultation suggests that the quality of provision is mixed. Drainage and issues with flooding are often cited as main reasons. Access to appropriate ancillary facilities is also variable across Renfrewshire. There are a number of sites with container style facilities or without any provision. This limits both their ability to host matches but can also impact on clubs looking to expand team numbers. Several clubs identify aspirations and plans to develop new and improved facilities. These predominantly relate to ancillary facilities plans and seeking of security of tenure on specific sites. Spare capacity is noted at football sites in Renfrewshire. However, there are several sites being overplayed or at capacity. In addition, there are other sites that are close to becoming ‘at capacity’ due to the large number of fixtures being accommodated. Furthermore, there are areas in Renfrewshire lacking in current pitch provision that require attention. There are also a number of sites with the potential to accommodate football pitches which are not currently used due to a lack of demand or quality issues. Page 49 Page 140 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 32 PART 5: CRICKET 5.1: Introduction Cricket Scotland (CS) is the governing and representative body for cricket within Scotland, including Renfrewshire Council. Its aim is to promote the game at all levels through partnership with professional and recreational cricketing clubs. There are three cricket clubs in Renfrewshire. The main opportunity to play competitive cricket (for seniors and juniors) is through the Western District Cricket Union League. Consultation Consultation was carried out with Cricket Scotland and Renfrew Cricket Club and surveys were completed by Kelburne Cricket Club and Ferguslie Cricket Club with results of the consultation being used to inform key issues within this section of the report. Kelburne CC and Ferguslie CC both access their own home sites and Renfrew CC plays its home fixtures at King George V Playing Fields. 5.2: Current provision There are three sites currently being used for competitive cricket in North Renfrewshire which are all located in the Renfrew and Paisley Analysis Area. Table 5.1: Summary of pitches Analysis area No. of pitches Bishopton and Erskine Area - Johnstone and Houston Area - Renfrew and Paisley Area 3 RENFREWSHIRE 3 There is also an artificial cricket square at the Seedhill site. This is not currently in use. Cricket Scotland identifies that a standard cricket pitch is 46m x 46m (minimum size) with 1.6 – 2.0 hectares maximum safety run-off. Page 50 Page 141 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 33 Figure 5.1: Location and availability of cricket pitches in Renfrewshire Page 51 Page 142 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 34 Table 5.2: Key to map Site ID Site name Analysis area No. of cricket pitches Wicket type 17 KGV (King George V Playing Fields) Renfrew and Paisley 1 12 grass wickets 40 Ferguslie Cricket Club Renfrew and Paisley 1 12 grass wickets 41 Kelburne Cricket Club Renfrew and Paisley 1 10 grass wickets 5.3: Demand Cricket clubs in Renfrewshire generate 21 cricket teams in total including 9 junior and 12 senior teams. There are currently no senior women’s or junior girl’s cricket teams. However, junior girls are permitted to play in junior boys’ teams dependent on league specifications. Table 5.3: Summary of teams playing in Renfrewshire Analysis area Number of teams Senior Junior Bishopton and Erskine - - Johnstone and Houston - - Renfrew and Paisley 12 9 RENFREWSHIRE 12 9 An analysis of match play identifies that peak time demand for senior cricket pitches in Renfrewshire is Saturday for seniors and midweek for juniors. All three clubs have teams in both junior and senior age groups playing within competitive leagues. Kelburne CC provides four senior teams, two of which play Saturday fixtures, one on Sundays and one midweek. It also fields an U18 (in conjunction with a club from another local authority) and an U11 team which plays fixtures midweek. Ferguslie CC has three senior teams. Two play on Saturday and one plays Sunday fixtures as well as one team at U11, U13, U15 and U18 levels which play fixtures midweek. The Club reports that it has decreased by one junior and one senior team within the last three years due to a fall in participation. Renfrew CC has five senior teams; two play on Saturday, two on Sunday and one midweek. It fields an U11, a combined U13 and a combined U18 side (with a club from another local authority). The Club notes that it has increased from two teams in recent years due to the development of its junior section progressing players through to senior teams. Latent demand Renfrew CC reports that it plans to increase its senior section by either one or two teams. However, it does not know where these will be accommodated due to a lack of access to Page 52 Page 143 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 35 pitches on a Saturday in Renfrewshire. The Club notes that it would be willing to move outside of the Area to further its development as a club. 5.4 Key issues for cricket Ownership/management There is one Renfrewshire Council owned site with cricket provision, King George V Playing Fields. Currently the main user is Renfrew CC which has a five year lease on the cricket pitch. The Club reports that it would like to increase this tenure to a longer lease in order to access additional funding. The two other cricket pitches are located at Ferguslie Cricket Club and Kelburne Cricket Club. Both clubs own and manage their respective sites. Pitch quality The cricket pitch at KGV is rated as being of average quality. Due to the open access of the site, issues such as dog fouling and littering are evident and have a detrimental effect on quality. The outfield is also assessed as being uneven. Renfrew CC which access the site also report issues with vandalism to both the pitch and the outdoor training facilities. It also reports recent changes to the Council’s maintenance regime to grass cutting either once per week or (occasionally) not at all, whereas it used to be cut twice a week. The Club does note that it invests £1,500 per year into the pitch which pays for top dressing, seeding and fertilising. The Club also fertilises the pitch three to four times a year and scarifies as and when is needed. The pitches at Kelburne CC and Ferguslie CC are both rated as good quality. Both pitches are owned and maintained by the clubs. Both clubs also report that overall quality of pitches is good. Kelburne CC notes that it plans to improve practice and match day pitches. Ferguslie CC also highlights that it is in receipt of a £10k grant for drainage work. Ancillary facilities King George V Playing Fields site has a changing pavilion block that incorporates ten changing rooms that are accessed by cricket, rugby and football teams. The main user (for cricket), Renfrew CC, suggests an issue with congestion when multiple sports teams access the changing provision and the consequential lack of hot water. The Club report that it would like its own clubhouse on site which would not need to be as substantial as the changing block and would ease congestion and capacity issues. Consultation also suggests that the car parking at the site is insufficient and the neighbouring school is accessed as a result. Kelburne CC and Ferguslie CC both have clubhouses at their respective sites which incorporate facilities such as changing provision for teams and officials, showers and kitchens. Both sites are fenced and as a result vandalism is minimal or not at all. Training facilities There is provision of two practice training lanes with artificial surfaces at King George V Playing Fields. The Club had plans to refurbish the training facility. However, the cost of this, including secure surrounding fencing, meant that it could not afford the whole Page 53 Page 144 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 36 development. It has instead sourced some second hand artificial turf carpets and is trying to source shock pads in order to undertake the work. Both Ferguslie CC and Kelburne CC train on site and have off field training facilities; which the majority of training hours takes place on. Kelburne CC has a two lane training facility with artificial surfaces and Ferguslie CC has a four lane artificial turf training facility. All three Renfrewshire clubs (Ferguslie CC, Kelburne CC and Renfrew CC) also note accessing facilities at Hutchesons Grammar School located outside of Renfrewshire in Glasgow for winter training. The School is a preferred base as it provides five lanes of high quality cricket nets. Renfrew CC also uses the High School of Glasgow for winter training for its youth teams. Supply and demand Existing provision is meeting current demand in that no teams have to access pitches outside of Renfrewshire for competitive fixtures. However, Renfrew CC would be able to increase its senior section by at least one senior team if it had access to an additional pitch on a Saturday (peak time). In addition, Ferguslie CC also access indoor provision for winter training due to lack of indoor provision within Renfrewshire to meet the Club’s needs. Cricket summary There are three sites currently being used for competitive cricket in Renfrewshire which are all located in the Renfrew and Paisley Analysis Area. There is also an artificial cricket square at the Seedhill site. Cricket clubs in Renfrewshire generate 21 cricket teams in total including 9 junior and 12 senior teams. There are currently no senior women’s junior girl’s cricket teams playing in Renfrewshire. Renfrew CC reports that it plans to increase its senior section by either one or two teams, however, it does not know where they will be accommodated. The one pitch at King George V Playing Fields is rated as standard quality and the pitches at Kelburne CC and Ferguslie CC are both rated as good quality. All three clubs are identified as having access to changing facilities. Changing facilities at the two privately owned sites are incorporated into clubhouses with additional facilities. Renfrew CC has aspirations to have its own clubhouse/pavilion at King George V due to associated issues of sharing with other sports teams. Currently all three Renfrewshire clubs access winter training facilities at the Hutchesons Grammar School in Glasgow. Site provides high quality five lane cricket nets. There is, in general, an adequate supply of cricket pitches in Renfrewshire to meet current demand and there is no displaced demand reported. However, latent demand for access to provision on Saturdays is expressed by Renfrew CC which reports that it would be able to field more teams if there was additional provision on Saturdays. Page 54 Page 145 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 37 PART 6: RUGBY 6.1: Introduction The Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) is responsible for the development of the sport across Scotland, ranging from the national team to grassroots development. At present, there is no SRU national or regional facilities strategy. There are two active rugby union clubs in Renfrewshire. Both play on pitches provided at privately owned venues. There is also one other rugby union club currently on a season long hiatus due to facility issues and difficulty in player retention. The playing season operates from end of August to March. Consultation With assistance from SRU, face to face consultation was completed with one club (Paisley RFC), whilst views were also received from Bishopton RFC by survey. The results, from both these clubs, are used to inform key issues regarding rugby union provision in the Area. 6.2: Current supply of grass pitches There are six grass rugby union pitches provided across five sites in Renfrewshire, all but one site, Park Mains High School, are used by rugby club teams. Table 6.1: Summary of pitches in Renfrewshire Please note that the audit only identified dedicated, line marked pitches and it is likely that younger age groups will play across senior pitches or on informal pitches marked out with cones. The methodology identifies that an average senior sized rugby union pitch is 144m x 69m. Analysis area Total no. of rugby pitches Bishopton & Erskine 2 Johnstone & Houston - Renfrew & Paisley 4 RENFREWSHIRE 6 Page 55 Page 146 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 38 Figure 6.1: Location of rugby pitches in Renfrewshire Page 56 Page 147 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 39 Table 6.2: Key to map Site ID Site name Analysis area Community use Number of pitches 17 KGV (King George V Playing Fields) Renfrew & Paisley Yes 1 38 Paisley RFC Renfrew & Paisley Yes 2 39 Bishopton RFC Bishopton & Erskine Yes 1 48 Park Mains High School Bishopton & Erskine Yes 1 55 University of West Scotland Renfrew & Paisley No 1 6.3: Demand Rugby union clubs in Renfrewshire generate 10 teams. There are no women’s teams and junior teams are accommodated at both Paisley and Bishopton rugby clubs. Table 6.3: Summary of demand by area In addition, Bishopton Rugby Club has micro and mini rugby sections. However, neither section plays competitive matches; instead they train and play the occasional friendly match on Sunday afternoons. Temporal demand identifies times of peak use of pitches (for matches only). In Renfrewshire the peak time usage of rugby pitches is Saturday afternoon. Junior rugby Only Bishopton Rugby Club provides regular competitive junior sections; at micro, mini and junior age groups. All teams play friendly matches organised against other local clubs as well as festival meetings and host venue tournaments. Junior teams play competitive matches at Under 16 and Under 18 level as part of the progression towards senior rugby. The SRU is responsible for rugby development across the Area. With its partners and Paisley Rugby Club it delivers two School of Rugby programmes to secondary school level children from Paisley Grammar and Castlehead High schools. The aim of this programme is to: Increase the amount of young people participating in rugby Improve and develop players and coaches currently involved in the sport The Club reports that School of Rugby coaching sessions take place on the ground each week, totalling approximately three hours usage altogether. Both schools also use Anchor Playing Fields at Paisley RFC to play competitive fixtures after school time as part of the agreement. The Club does, however, report that although there are no other formal Analysis area No. of competitive teams Senior Juniors Bishopton & Erskine 2 3 Johnstone & Houston 0 0 Renfrew & Paisley 2 3 RENFREWSHIRE 4 6 Page 57 Page 148 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 40 agreements with schools, most in the area ask to use the ground for fixtures and local development officers often use the ground as the venue for local schools tournaments. Schools rugby is particularly well played and has seen growth in recent years. However, the issue with games being called off due to weather/ground conditions is frequent. Women and girls’ rugby There is currently no women’s rugby team playing competitively in Renfrewshire. Girls are permitted to play in junior sections. However, there is no specific girls’ team playing in Renfrewshire. It is assumed that there is some girls’ participation in mixed mini sections. Paisley RFC has plans to field a ladies and girls teams in the coming future. However, the Club realises that arrangements for appropriate changing facilities must be made beforehand. Bishopton RFC also has plans to offer ladies rugby and intend on fielding two senior teams in the future. Latent demand Latent demand is defined as the number of teams that could be fielded if access to a sufficient number of pitches were available. Bishopton RFC expresses latent demand for access to more rugby pitches in Renfrewshire. The Club has access to one senior pitch but believes that it can grow to have one team per age group from P4 to S3, Under 16 and Under 18, in addition, two senior teams, two ladies teams and a team at Over 35s. In order to do so, the Club would need access to at least one more pitch in order to manage the quality of its current pitch at Holmpark Playing Fields. 6.4: Key issues for rugby union Clubs The table below summaries the key issues emerging from the consultation with rugby clubs in Renfrewshire. Table 6.4: Club summary Club/site Summary of issues Paisley RFC/Anchor Playing Fields Paisley RFC has aspirations on the site which they own in order to add a third pitch, preferably an IRB standard synthetic grass pitch (SGP). In order to do so it plans to rotate Pitch 2 in order to make room, although it would need to purchase surrounding land in order to accommodate it. Pitch 2 would then be under the small existing floodlit area, providing potential to create a fully floodlit pitch in the future. The Club plans on working in partnership with a local school to develop the SGP which would be available for community use, notably to cater for football training demand. This would also help alleviate the significant training usage on the current grass pitches. Other plans include two temporary self contained changing rooms to allow for the refurbishment of the existing poor quality rooms. This would also allow for potential women’s and girls’ rugby in the future. Page 58 Page 149 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 41 Club/site Summary of issues Bishopton RFC/Holmpark Playing Field Bishopton RFC also has aspirations to develop an SGP pitch in addition to a new grass pitch and floodlit training area onsite to accommodate for the increased demand in the area. As part of a seven year plan it aims to work with the local Community Sports Hub as well as the SRU, SFA, SHA and LTA in order to develop a community use pitch for multi sports use. The Club intends to seek funding from the Lottery, BAE Systems & SportsMatch, SRU Facilities Fund and RBS GroundForce. The Club also uses the pitch at KGV as a secondary pitch. However, it is often waterlogged or made unavailable for various reasons, hence the drive to develop existing provision onsite as the Holmpark pitch also has drainage issues. Renfrew RFC/King George V Playing Fields The Club began the 2013/14 season playing league matches in RBS Division 4 on the senior pitch at KGV. No response was received from the Club. However, Renfrew CC plays on the neighboring cricket pitch at KGV, often at the same time. During consultation the Club commented that it understood Renfrew RFC had to withdraw from league fixtures due to the poor quality of the KGV pitch which caused consistent cancellations and an inability to uphold league commitments from September onwards. In addition, it is believed that the Club has difficulty in retaining players. It is understood that the Club is looking to return to league rugby for the 2014/2015 season and is looking to prepare pitch arrangements accordingly. Quality The non technical site assessments rate the majority of rugby pitches in Renfrewshire as being of a good quality. Clubs also tend to rate pitches as either average or good quality. However, uneven surfaces and poor drainage are considered to be regular pitch quality issues. It is understood that Renfrew RFC can no longer commit to fulfil league fixtures due to waterlogging which occurs on the pitch at KGV. This is consistent with the views of Bishopton RFC who use the pitch as a secondary facility and report a lack of accessibility, with reasons given including waterlogging and lack of changing facilities available. All clubs report having access to training provision (off match pitches) and changing accommodation. Bishopton RFC uses an SGP at Park Mains High School for training purposes when its Holmpark grass pitches are waterlogged; the micro and mini sections also train indoors here between December and March. Clubs tend to rate changing facilities as being poor in terms of quality. Notable issues include a lack of hot water in what are communal showers at Paisley RFC. The Club acknowledges this and is planning on installing two temporary self contained changing rooms whilst they refurbish the existing facilities. Bishopton RFC also rate shower provision as poor. Funding Paisley RFC previously received approximately £56,000 from the Cashback for Communities fund. This was used primarily to improve the drainage on grass pitches, whilst also funding the installation of floodlights on the grass training area as well as improvements to the shower areas. Page 59 Page 150 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 42 Bishopton RFC plans to submit applications to various schemes in order to seek funding as part of its plans to develop a new SGP onsite. Potential sources include Lottery, BAE Systems and SportsMatch, SRU Facilities Fund and RBS GroundForce. The Club has also expressed desire to work with other SGB facilities funds in order to work towards building a community use pitch available to several sports and clubs in the Area. Table 6.5: Rugby pitch provision and level of use Site ID Site name Analysis area Senior Matches per week G A P Actual play Site capacity Rating 39 Bishopton RFC Bishopton & Erskine 1 2.5 2.0 48 Park Mains High School Bishopton & Erskine 1 - 4.0 17 KGV Renfrew & Paisley 1 - 2.0 38 Paisley RFC Renfrew & Paisley 2 2.5 4.0 Supply and demand The rugby pitches at Holmpark Playing Fields are considered to be being played over capacity. Currently the pitches are used by Bishopton RFC for matches only. The Club accesses a secondary pitch offsite at KGV. However, this is often made unavailable which directs more play onto the Holmpark pitches. Furthermore, the Club reports plans to provide one additional senior ladies team next season as well as two girls teams. All sites are available for community use with the exception of the University of West Scotland pitches, which are used exclusively by the student sports teams. All other pitches are in receipt of play. The pitch at Park Mains High School will be available for club use once the licence for its use has been finalised. Currently it is predominantly used exclusively by the School. The senior pitch at KGV is exempt as, although it would usually receive play from two clubs, it is largely unused at the current time. The only pitch being overplayed is Holmpark Playing Fields. The extent is marginal, however, if the pitch at KGV is out of use this serves to put extra pressure and play on the Holmpark pitch. Additionally, any success in plans to add three more teams would create significant pitch quality and management issues for Bishopton RFC. In order to accommodate any additional growth/teams partners will need to investigate the provision of training facilities and/or quality of pitches in order to realise capacity on competitive pitches. For example, addressing the pitch quality issues at KGV could help to meet demand expressed by Bishopton RFC. If existing pitch improvements are unrealistic then a longer term solution could be to provide additional pitch stock in order to meet current and future demand. This could be through the creation of additional pitches as highlighted as part of the Club’s development plan, or by seeking an alternative secondary or possibly tertiary pitch access, such as at Park Mains High School. Page 60 Page 151 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 43 Rugby union summary There are six grass rugby union pitches provided across five sites in Renfrewshire. Clubs generate 10 teams, including junior teams. Although there are no women’s teams currently playing, both Paisley RFC and Bishopton RFC have plans to develop women’s and girl’s teams. Bishopton RFC expresses latent demand for access to more pitches. It suggests access to at least one more pitch is needed in order to manage the quality of its current pitch at Holmpark Playing Fields. Paisley RFC identifies aspirations to update its current clubhouse and changing rooms in order to provide more up to date facilities. Both Paisley RFC and Bishopton RFC highlight independent desires for SGP facilities at their respective home grounds. The majority of pitches in Renfrewshire are rated as good quality. However, uneven surfaces and poor drainage are considered to be regular pitch quality issues. Bishopton RFC report that the quality of their secondary pitch at KGV is affected by waterlogging. Overplay is identified as occurring at the Bishopton RFC site (Holmpark Playing Fields). The Club reports occasionally using the pitch at KGV when possible. All other sites with rugby pitches are in theory being under played, however, weather conditions means they are not always available. In order to accommodate any additional growth/teams clubs will need to investigate the provision of training facilities and pitch quality to realise capacity on competitive pitches. This applies particularly to Bishopton RFC which will require additional pitch provision in order to realise plans to field more teams. Page 61 Page 152 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 44 PART 7: SYNTHETIC GRASS PITCHES 7.1 Current provision There is a mixture of synthetic grass pitch (SGP) provision in Renfrewshire; these are predominantly third generation (3G) surfaces. There are two second generation (2G) pitches identified in the area; at the University of West Scotland and Park Mains High School. The latter is the only full size pitch. Table 7.1: Summary of SGPs We have also included blaes pitches within this section of the report for audit purposes. Blaes pitches can be used for football. However, all existing blaes pitches in Renfrewshire are rated as being either average or poor quality. This results in a lack of demand for their use. Many suffer from poor drainage and can often flood in wet weather; making them unavailable for use. Where blaes pitches do exist there could be potential to upgrade to synthetic surfaces or convert to grass pitches where demand exists. During the course of the study, a number of clubs and community groups highlight aspirations to develop new SGP facilities. Analysis area Number of SGPs 3G 2G Blaes Renfrew and Paisley 12 1 3 Johnstone and Houston 5 - 8 Bishopton and Erskine 2 1 2 RENFREWSHIRE 19 2 13 Page 62 Page 153 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 45 Figure 7.1: Location of SGPs in Renfrewshire by surface type Page 63 Page 154 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 46 Table 7.2: Key to map – Council sites Site ID Site name Analysis area Number Size Surface 13 Erskine Bishopton and Erskine 1 Full size 3G 48 Park Mains High School Bishopton and Erskine 1 Full size 3G 48 Park Mains High School Bishopton and Erskine 1 Full size Sand 58 Barsall Primary School Bishopton and Erskine 1 Full size Blaes 64 St Anne's Primary School Bishopton and Erskine 1 Full size Blaes 22 Linwood Sports Centre Johnstone and Houston 1 Full size 3G 22 Linwood Sports Centre Johnstone and Houston 1 Half size 3G 44 Gryffe High School Johnstone and Houston 2 7v7 3G 44 Gryffe High School Johnstone and Houston 1 Full size Blaes 45 Johnstone High School Johnstone and Houston 1 Full size 3G 45 Johnstone High School Johnstone and Houston 1 Full size Blaes 46 Linwood High School Johnstone and Houston 1 Full size Blaes 51 St Benedict's High School Johnstone and Houston 1 Full size Blaes 56 Kilbarchan Primary School Johnstone and Houston 1 Half size Blaes 60 East Fulton Primary School Johnstone and Houston 1 Full size Blaes 63 Fordbank Primary School Johnstone and Houston 1 Half size Blaes 69 Our Lady of Peace Primary School Johnstone and Houston 1 Half size Blaes 3 Ferguslie Park Renfrew and Paisley 1 Full size 3G 17 KGV Renfrew and Paisley 1 Full size 3G 18 Seedhill Renfrew and Paisley 1 Full size 3G 18 Seedhill Renfrew and Paisley 3 5-a-side 3G 23 Penilee (Ralston Sports Centre) Renfrew and Paisley 1 Full size 3G 42 Castlehead High School Renfrew and Paisley 1 Full size Blaes 43 Gleniffer High School Renfrew and Paisley 1 Full size 3G 50 St Andrew's Academy Renfrew and Paisley 1 Full size 3G 52 Trinity High School Renfrew and Paisley 1 Half size Blaes 66 Gallowhill Primary School Renfrew and Paisley 1 7v7 Blaes Table 7.3: Key to map – Non council sites Site ID Site name Analysis area Number Size Surface 19 Ralston Renfrew and Paisley 1 Full size 3G 55 University of West Scotland Renfrew and Paisley 2 7v7 3G 55 University of West Scotland Renfrew and Paisley 1 7v7 Sand In terms of SGP size, half size refers to 60m x 40m and full size refers to 100m x 60m. Facilities should allow for a 3m run off as well. Page 64 Page 155 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 47 7.2 Quality The table below provides a summary on the quality of all 2G and 3G SGPs in Renfrewshire. It incorporates findings from non technical quality assessments carried out in early 2014 and also takes into account user views on quality. Table 7.4: Quality summary of Renfrewshire 2G and 3G pitches (Council) Site ID Site name Size Surface type Year built Floodlit? Quality rating Comments 3 Ferguslie Park Full 3rd Generation 1999/ 2000 Yes Good One of the ‘central venues’ to host smaller sided formats of the Paisley and Johnstone Youth League. Several clubs also identify using facility for training purposes. 17 KGV/Renfrew High School Full 3rd Generation - Yes Poor Fire damage and vandalism a major issue on the site. Despite double fencing around perimeter it still suffers from extensive vandalism. Facility is currently offline due to the damage. 18 Seedhill Full 3rd Generation - Yes Good Site has full size 3G and 3 x 5-a-side facilities (with 3G surface). Both are floodlit. Clubs identify using facility for training purposes. Site is also a ‘central venue’ to host smaller sided formats of the Paisley and Johnstone Youth League. 5-a-side 3rd Generation - Yes Good 22 Linwood Sports Centre Full 3rd Generation - Yes Good Standing water was noted as an issue during site visits Half 3rd Generation - Poor 23 Penilee (Ralston Sports Centre) Full 3rd Generation - Yes Good Site is used a ‘central venue’ for smaller sided formats of the Paisley and Johnstone Youth League. 43 Glennifer High School Full 3rd Generation 2006 Yes Average School regards condition as sufficient but does identify a slight issue with seagulls leaving mess of surface. Clubs identify using facility for training. 44 Gryffe High School 7v7 3rd Generation 2007 Yes Good Site contains a 2 x 7v7 size facility. Created as part of school refurbishment in 2007. School reports that despite its good standard of quality the facility does suffer from vandalism. Site is used a venue for the Paisley and Johnstone Youth League. 45 Johnstone High School Full 3rd Generation 2012 Yes Good The 3G facility was built in 2012. It is a ‘central venue’ for the smaller sided format of the Paisley and Johnstone Youth League as well as being used by clubs for training. The School reports that the sharing of the changing facilities with the community for the SGP is an issue. Page 65 Page 156 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 48 Site ID Site name Size Surface type Year built Floodlit? Quality rating Comments 48 Park Mains High School Full 2nd Generation Sand-dressed 2012 Yes Average Venue for 7v7 format of the Paisley and Johnstone Youth League. Facilities are well used by clubs for training. 3G facility is only one year old, locked regularly and is to a good standard. School reports that the 3G accommodates the majority of the curriculum use, with the rest taking place of the astro. Full 3rd Generation 2013 Yes Good 50 St Andrews Academy Full 3rd Generation 2006 Yes Good Built in 2006. Site is central venue for smaller sided formats of the Paisley and Johnstone Youth League. Table 7.5: Quality summary of Renfrewshire 2G and 3G pitches (private) Site ID Site name Size Surface type Year built Floodlit? Quality rating Comments 19 Ralston Full 3rd Generation 2009 Yes Good Identified as being used predominantly by St Mirren. 55 University of West Scotland 7v7 3rd Generation - Yes Good 2x 7v7 size pitch with 3G surface. The 1x 7v7 is used as a multi-sport facility as it is over marked with tennis line markings and nets. 7v7 2nd Generation Sand-based - Yes Average In addition to the SGPs identified above, there are also a number of blaes surface facilities across Renfrewshire. A summary of these is provided in the table: Table 7.6: Summary of quality of blaes pitches Site ID Site name Size Surface type Year built Floodlit? Quality rating Comments 13 Erskine Full Blaes - Yes Poor - 42 Castlehead High School Full Blaes 2009 No Average Surface can get slippery when rains. Pitch put in five years ago, was intended to be a SGP. 44 Gryffe High School Full Blaes - No Average - 45 Johnstone High School Full Blaes - No Average - Page 66 Page 157 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 49 Site ID Site name Size Surface type Year built Floodlit? Quality rating Comments 46 Linwood High School Full Golden Grit 2008 No Poor Built in 2008. School reports no demand for a pitch of this type. Pupils do not want to use it. 51 St Benedict’s High School Full Golden Grit 2006 No Average Pitch has got worse in recent years due to silage from nearby farm running off on to facility. Promoted growth of plants, resulted in parts of pitch having to be sectioned off from being used. 52 Trinity High School Half Blaes - No Average School states it is not fit for purpose as it floods easily. Funding is in place to upgrade to a 3G – although it is not enough to be full size. 56 Kilbarchan Primary School Half Blaes - No Poor Schools identifies pitch suffers from unofficial use and dog fouling. 58 Barsall Primary School Half Blaes - No Poor Schools identifies pitch suffers from unofficial use and dog fouling. 60 East Fulton Primary School Half Blaes - No Poor Schools identifies pitch suffers from some unofficial use and dog fouling. 63 Fordbank Primary School Half Blaes - No Average School reports some evidence of unofficial use 64 St Anne’s Primary School Half Blaes - No Poor Schools identifies pitch suffers from unofficial use and dog fouling. 66 Gallowhill Primary School 7v7 Blaes - No Poor - 69 Our Lady of Peace Primary School Half Blaes - No Poor Schools identifies pitch suffers from unofficial use and dog fouling. The expected average life span for an SGP is 10-15 years. It is likely that a number of sites will reach the end of their life span in the near future. This will result in the need for full carpet replacement, particularly at older facilities such as Ferguslie Park. Page 67 Page 158 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 50 7.3 Availability The vast majority of 3G SGPs in Renfrewshire are available for community use. However, the facility at Renfrew High School/KGV is currently offline and not able to be accessed due to the extensive vandalism and fire damage that has occurred. The site has had a prolonged problem with vandalism. Preventative measures such as a double fence around the perimeter have been installed but issues still persist. Community lettings are managed by Renfrewshire Council, Renfrewshire Leisure or AMEY. No block booking of provision is possible. Clubs have to arrange on a weekly basis for access to SGPs. Clubs part of the CSH initiative have priority for booking provision only in their own hub area. hub clubs do not receive any form of priority in other CSH areas. Subsequently some clubs highlight accessing SGPs as difficult. 7.4 Usage Use of SGPs in Renfrewshire is dominated by football. Instances of other sports being played are highlighted but in the main SGPs are used for both mid week evening training and small side formats of the game on Saturdays and Sunday. Often, the size of the pitch is divided up for hire into thirds. Therefore hire of a whole full size SGP by a single booking is not common. Consultation generally identifies a need for additional provision of artificial 3G pitches to service football demand for both training and competition. This could also help in terms of relieving pressure on grass pitches particularly during periods of bad weather. Certain SGPs in Renfrewshire appear to be more used than others. The Council indicates that SGPs with a high number of bookings include the facilities at St Andrews, Glennifer and Gryffe High Schools. The number of bookings at St Andrews is over double the numbers received for the SGPs at KGV and Ferguslie Sports Centre. All three of the school sites have substantial booking numbers for the Under 19 age group category. This will be partly due to the sites being used as ‘central venues’ for league fixtures. Spare capacity at these facilities is likely to be less available compared to other sites. The number of bookings for SGPs without changing room facilities is much higher compared to those with access to changing accommodation. This is a trend seen across all SGPs in Renfrewshire. As the only Council 3G pitch in the Johnstone Area, demand for access to the SGP at Johnstone High School is particularly high, with a number of football clubs reporting difficulty in booking slots. At the time of writing, clubs also highlight the impact of the KGV/Renfrew High School SGP being ‘offline’ due to the damage caused by vandalism. This is considered to be adding to the demand for provision especially in the Renfrew Area. Page 68 Page 159 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 51 7.5: Hockey The Scottish Hockey Union (SH) is the recognised governing body for hockey in Scotland and leads on the development, management and promotion of the sport across all ages and abilities. 2G pitches are most suitable for hockey training and competitive matches. However, hockey can use short pile 3G (40 mm) with no shock pad for training purposes up to senior two/three level. Consultation There are two hockey clubs in Renfrewshire; Kelburne Hockey Club and Ferguslie Ladies & Anchor Men’s Hockey Club. The former was met with face to face and a survey sent to Ferguslie Ladies & Anchor Men’s HC although no reply was received. Current provision There is only one full size 2G pitch, suitable to play competitive hockey on in Renfrewshire at Park Mains High School. No competitive play is identified as taking place on the site. Linwood Sports Centre is also identified as being used for hockey. It acts as the home ground for Ferguslie Ladies & Anchor Men’s HC. The Club is able to play matches at the site, despite it being a 3G surface, as the level of hockey the team plays is to an appropriate standard. Quality The general condition and quality of the two facilities (Linwood Sports Centre and Park Mains High School) used for hockey in Renfrewshire is good. However, the half size AGP at Linwood is currently identified as suffering from flooding issues. Demand There are two hockey clubs currently based in Renfrewshire, producing nine senior teams in total. Kelburne Hockey Club is the only club that has a junior section. Table 7.7: Summary of hockey club and teams Displaced demand Kelburne HC plays and trains outside of Renfrewshire at the Glasgow Green National Hockey Centre; although juniors do use the Kelburne Cricket Club site for training on Saturday mornings. The Club used to play out of Linwood Sports Centre but due to league stipulations have to use a water based surface. Club Teams Home ground Kelburne Hockey Club Men’s x 5 Ladies x 3 Juniors x 5 Glasgow Green Scottish Hockey Centre Ferguslie Ladies & Anchor Men’s HC Men’s x 1 Ladies x 1 Linwood Sports Centre Page 69 Page 160 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 52 The University of West Scotland (UWS) also highlights having a hockey team which plays outside of Renfrewshire. The University states that the team plays at Clydesdale Hockey Club in Glasgow. However, it does not highlight any specific interest in playing within Renfrewshire. Latent demand As highlighted earlier, Kelburne HC does not play any of its matches within Renfrewshire due to a lack of suitable facilities. The Club identifies that it would be able to field more junior teams if it had its own pitch within Renfrewshire. This would than subsequently lead to more senior teams in the long term (due to progression of players). Relating to this, and due to playing out of Renfrewshire, the Club has aspirations to develop a new water based pitch with clubhouse facilities in Renfrewshire. No funding is in place yet and the Club is currently looking at a number of potential options for a site; as part of this it is meeting with local organisations such as St Mirren and UWS. 7.6 Football use of SGPs Competitive football is not sanctioned on 2G pitches. Although training can take place on 2G, the preferred artificial surface for football is 3G. Competitive youth matches take place on 3G provision across Renfrewshire and the majority of the smaller sided format of the game occurs on 3G. It is estimated that 142 teams per week use 3G SGP for matches (based on club consultation). The largest youth league in the Area (Paisley, Johnstone and District Youth League) plays it matches at ‘central (hub) venues’. Sites used to host games are: Johnstone High School – Saturday and Sunday (9am to 12pm both days) Seedhill Sports Centre – Saturday and Sunday (9am to 12pm both days) Park Mains High School – Saturday (9am to 12pm) Ferguslie – Saturday and Sunday (9am to 12pm both days) Ralston Sports Complex – Saturday and Sunday (9am to 12pm both days) In addition, clubs report playing some senior matches on SGPs (which leagues do sanction). However, booking provision for appropriate kickoff times i.e. 3pm on Saturdays is difficult as well as being an added expense to clubs. The majority of football clubs express demand for access to additional training facilities. A total of 69% of the clubs consulted express the need for further training provision; often the requirement stated is for a 3G pitch and/or a need for better access to existing facilities. In addition to the above, Linwood Community Development Trust highlights plans to develop a 3G football pitch. The Trust is a group of volunteers from the local community with the aim to improve the health and wellbeing whilst reducing social inequalities in the Linwood area. One of the key projects for the group is to develop a 3G facility in the Area; as currently only the two grass pitches at Linwood Sports Centre service Linwood. As part of this, the Trust is currently building a business case towards the development of community/football facilities. Page 70 Page 161 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 53 7.7 Rugby use of SGPs Rugby clubs do not, in general, access off site training facilities and often train on their home ground sites alongside match pitches. The exception is Bishopton RFC which sometimes uses the SGPs at Park Mains High School for training if the grass pitches at its Holmpark ground are waterlogged. sportscotland’s guidance ‘Guide to the preparation of Sports Pitch Strategies’ reports that rugby teams should avoid using match pitches for training due to wear and tear to the playing surface. Whilst there are a number of SGPs in Renfrewshire, none of these are International Rugby Board (IRB) approved. Both Bishopton RFC and Renfrew RFC highlight plans to develop an SGP suitable for rugby use. Summary There are 19 3G SGPs in Renfrewshire; 11 of these are identified as being full size. There are also two 2G SGPs (one being full size) as well as a 13 blaes surface pitches. The majority of 3G pitches (nine sites) are located in Renfrew and Paisley analysis areas; with other analysis areas, Johnstone and Houston (four sites) and Bishopton and Erskine (two sites), having less. All SGPs are available for some level of community use. SGPs in Renfrewshire are predominately used for football training and youth matches. Demand for use of Johnstone High School SGP is particularly high as it is the only one in the Area. Linwood Community Development Trust plans to develop a new 3G pitch as part of its aim to improve health and wellbeing/social opportunities in the area. It is currently building a business case for sports/community facilities. Hockey – two clubs are based in Renfrewshire; Ferguslie Ladies & Anchor Mens HC use Linwood Sports Centre as its home ground. However, Kelburne HC currently plays all its matches outside of Renfrewshire at the Glasgow Green National Hockey Centre as it needs to access a waterbased pitch. Kelburne HC has aspirations to develop a new water based SGP and clubhouse in Renfrewshire. The Club suggests it would be able to field more junior teams if it had such a facility more locally based. It is currently exploring potential options. Football – Consultation with football clubs suggests that, in general, there is demand for further access to SGP provision in Renfrewshire. Often demand relates to football training needs. Rugby – There are no suitable IRB pitches in Renfrewshire to service rugby. However, both Bishopton RFC and Renfrew RFC highlight aspirations to develop a facility. Page 71 Page 162 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 54 PART 8: EDUCATION 8.1: Introduction The provision of sport and recreation facilities at education sites can make an important contribution to the overall stock of provision. It is therefore important to have accurate information about the number, type, quality and availability of facilities and pitches within the education sector in Renfrewshire. Consultation Face to face meetings were conducted with all eleven secondary schools and the one University, whilst an online survey was sent via email to each of the 49 primary schools (gaining a 98% response rate) to ascertain the quality, quantity and accessibility of outdoor sports pitch provision. 8.2: Current provision The tables below provide a summary of the current provision recorded at education sites in Renfrewshire. Table 8.1: Summary of grass pitches at education sites Analysis area Football 11v11 Football 7v7 Football 4v4 Rugby Union Cricket Bishopton & Erskine 0 2 0 1 0 Johnstone & Houston 3 1 0 0 0 Renfrew & Paisley 2 2 0 0 0 Renfrewshire 5 5 0 1 0 In addition, a number of schools have golden grit/blaes pitches and some mark out grass tracks (usually over-marked with football pitches and only available during the summer only). 8.3: Secondary schools Current provision All secondary schools have access to outdoor sports facilities. The majority of this provision is on-site. However, Paisley and Trinity High schools primarily use SGPs off site for curriculum and any other school use. Many schools access off site provision in order to play competitive fixtures due to the stock of onsite pitches comprising of few grass surfaces, or prefer to play fixtures on SGP pitches onsite. A variety of outdoor sports provision is accommodated at secondary schools (on and off site) in Renfrewshire. Two secondary schools provide an 11v11 football pitch (St Benedict’s and Glennifer High Schools), both providing two pitches onsite. There are no junior or mini football pitches at secondary school sites. Only Park Mains High School has a dedicated rugby pitch, however, Glennifer High School has a grass field used for PE which was previously marked as a senior rugby pitch. Paisley and Castlehead High schools report accessing rugby pitches off site at Paisley RFC through the School of Rugby programmes. Page 72 Page 163 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 55 Six of the eleven secondary schools have Blaes/Golden Grit pitches onsite. The two Golden Grit pitches were installed as new within the last seven years. Blaes and Golden Grit are largely unfavoured by clubs and are supported by further pitch stock onsite; however, two schools (Trinity and Linwood High) have access to one sole blaes pitch. Quality Grass pitch quality varies between schools. For example, football pitches at Glennifer High School are assessed as good quality. However, the quality of grass pitches at St Benedict’s High School is deemed poor. SGPs are generally average quality with four schools being assessed as good quality, two as average and one as poor quality. Six schools also provide blaes/Golden Grit pitches that are assessed as being poor to average in quality. Two schools also have SGPs onsite and report clearly favouring the SGP wherever possible. One of the main issues highlighted during consultation is around unofficial use of pitches. Almost all schools report that due to pitches not being fenced or secured unofficial use is common particularly on the SGPs. Schools do not tend to lock SGP facilities due to the risk of damage to fences from people trying to break in. Renfrew High School is an example of where this occurs, where the SGP is double fenced and padlocked yet is still out of use due to excessive unofficial surface damage. Usage Community lettings are managed by Renfrewshire Council. No grass pitches are available to local sports clubs for community use. All of the eight SGPs report current use. Community demand tends to be for SGPs rather than grass football or blaes pitches. Additionally there is also significant use of football pitches to accommodate school league fixtures which can affect the capacity of pitches to accommodate community use. Ancillary facilities There are specific changing accommodation/rooms at all of the secondary schools. However, quality and community access varies quite significantly between schools. 8.4: Primary schools Current provision Several types of outdoor sports facilities are accommodated at primary schools in Renfrewshire. Under half (45%) have an on-site playing field but only one school (Woodlands Primary School) provides a senior grass football pitch. In addition, only 10% have a 7v7 grass football pitch whilst there are no mini football pitches at primaries in the area. No primary schools provide adult rugby, junior rugby, or cricket pitches. Seven schools (14%) provide an SGP, although this includes blaes pitches. Page 73 Page 164 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 56 Quality The majority of responses relating to the condition of playing fields rate the overall quality as poor (67%) or average (34%). All primary schools rate the amount of grass cover as being good and 66% rate the slope of pitch as flat. However, most primary schools also rate the quality of line markings (66%) as being poor and the same number report evidence of unofficial use. The quality of drainage varies between schools and half rate the quality as average. Usage There is little (31%) availability for community use of school playing pitches and only one school reports that its blaes pitch was currently used, although the nature of which was not specified. Common reasons for lack of use during the holidays include lack of demand, possibly influenced by the poor quality blaes pitches in place at several schools. These results differ when considering wider availability of playing fields for regular community use by sports clubs with over half of schools with playing fields (60%) reporting that community use of unmarked fields is available. Ancillary facilities Many primary schools (38%) do not have specific changing accommodation/rooms available for sports use; however 26 (58%) did not answer that question. Of the 4 schools that indicate that they do have specific changing accommodation half rate the quality as being good and 25% rate the quality as being adequate, however only one school reports access for community use. 8.5: Further and Higher Education The University of West Scotland Paisley Campus represents the only higher education site in the Area and fields outdoor sports teams in the BUCS league on a weekly basis. All outdoor provision is located offsite at Robertson Sports Centre which is owned by the University and has onsite an adult football pitch, senior rugby union pitch and three 7v7 size SGPs. Another site at Titwood (Clydesdale HC) is accessed for Hockey use. The grass pitches at Robertson Sports Centre are rated as good quality and are maintained weekly by the Universities’ estates department, with no significant issues reported. The quality of the SGPs varies slightly, with two rated as good and one of average quality. Pitches are available for community use but are primarily only used for university teams playing midweek on Wednesday afternoons. Provision is therefore available for potential lets at weekends. There is some current community use, although no regular users were identified and no agreements or partnerships with community clubs are in place. It is notable that American Football is also played on the rugby union pitch which may influence capacity for rugby union use by the community. The University of West Scotland Paisley Campus highlights a clear desire and plans to expand its sport offering from September 2014. Growth will include an increase in the number of teams (particularly football) and the introduction of an intra mural sports programme for all students. This will therefore have an impact on future demand, something which the University anticipates and as such is investigating facilities Page 74 Page 165 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 57 development opportunities within the area, with the sale or redevelopment of Robertson Sports Centre or development of a new site as potential options. Education summary In total there are five adult grass football pitches, five junior grass football pitches and one senior grass rugby union pitch at education sites in Renfrewshire. None of the three secondary schools with grass pitches have community use by local clubs for competitive fixtures or training. Six of the eleven secondary schools (55%) have Blaes/Golden Grit pitches onsite. These are hugely unfavoured in preferrence of other SGP surfaces and are of poor quality in general. All secondary schools have access to changing accommodation. Conversely the majority of primary schools do not have changing facilities available. The quality of changing varies significantly between schools. The quality of outdoor sports facilities at schools in Renfrewshire is generally to an average or poor standard and there is a notably low number of grass pitches. However, a common theme is instances of significant and consistent unofficial use are frequently reported. The University of West Scotland Paisley Campus is actively looking to expand its sport offering from September 2014. In order to accommodate the expected increase in demand it is purposefully considering facilities development options on its current site and beyond. Page 75 Page 166 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 58 PART 9: SUMMARY This Assessment Report considers the supply and demand issues for playing pitches in Renfrewshire. It identifies local need from consultation highlighting the predominant issues (utilising a project database to coordinate and present findings). This will inform the development of the Strategy and Action Plan to address key issues. Strategic recommendations and provision standards will also be incorporated in the strategy document. Page 76 Page 167 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 59 PART 10: CONSULTEE LIST Organisation Name Designation Type Renfrewshire Council Julie Telford Resources Support Manager (Cap Projects) Steering group Renfrewshire Council Daryl Ramage Steering group Renfrewshire Leisure Joyce McKellar Chief Executive (Acting) Steering group Renfrewshire Council Brian Millar PE Lead Officer Steering group Renfrewshire Leisure Tony Finn Business Service & Development Manager Steering group Renfrewshire Leisure Jim Blythe Sport Hub Development Officer Telephone Renfrewshire Leisure Fraser Buchan Sport Hub Development Officer Telephone Scottish Football Association Paul McNeil Regional Manager Telephone Scottish Football Association Danny Bisland Development Officer Telephone Cricket Scotland Tim Hart Regional Participation Manager Survey/email Scottish Hockey Jamie Frail Regional Development Manager (West) Survey/email University of West Scotland Marcus Ross Director of Facilities Face to face University of West Scotland John McGonigal Sports Project Manager Face to face Trinity High School Jack Nellaney Principal Teacher Face to face Renfrew High School Carolanne Cameron Principal Teacher Face to face Gryffe High School Scott Taylor Education Support Manager Face to face Glennifer High School Gordon Menzies Principal Teacher Face to face St Andrew’s Academy Mark McLean PE Department Face to face Castlehead High School Kate Scott Principal Teacher Face to face Linwood High School Gordy Mothersole Principal Teacher Face to face Paisley High School Martin Paton Principal Teacher Face to face Johnstone High School Susan Chambers Principal Teacher Face to face St Benedict’s High School Margaret McGachy Principal Teacher Face to face Park Mains High School Craig Corr Acting Principal Teacher Face to face Linwood Community Development Trust Kirsty Flannigan - Face to face Linwood & Gryffe Community Sports Hub Louis Jeffrey Chairman Face to face Renfrew & Gallowhill Community Sports Hub Andy Cavanagh Co-ordinator Telephone/survey Linwood Rangers YFC Eric Fallen - Face to face St Peters Boys Club FC Paul McTaggart Club President Face to face Glennifer Thistle FC Billy Hassan Jr - Face to face Page 77 Page 168 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 60 Organisation Name Designation Type Renfrew Victoria YFC Jim Muir Club Secretary Face to face Erskine YFC Neil McMurchy Chairmen Face to face Cherrie YFC Robert Wallace Paul McCrindle Club Secretary Telephone/survey Glynhill Moorcroft AFC Phil McGrath Club Secretary Telephone/survey Renfrew Thistle AFC John Neish Club Secretary Telephone/survey Renfrew Town AFC Scott McLeish Club Secretary Telephone/survey Braehead AFC Malcolm Thomson Club Secretary Telephone/survey Renfrew FC (Youth Section) George Johnston Club Secretary Telephone/survey Langcraigs FC William Nicol Club Secretary Telephone/survey Paisley Athletic AFC Stewart Cameron Club Secretary Telephone/survey Glenbrae Colts YFC Stewart Williamson Club Secretary Telephone/survey Alba Thistle FC Gerry McDonnell Club Secretary Telephone/survey Paisley FC Charlie Henderson Club Secretary Telephone/survey Johnstone Burgh Community Football Club Ricky Cantwell Club Secretary Telephone/survey Thorn Athletic FC Derrick McMillan Club Secretary Telephone/survey Glentyan Thistle FC (Junior) Alistair McMaster Club Secretary Telephone/survey Glentyan Thistle FC Iain Marshall Club Secretary Telephone/survey Glenvale FC Danny McKim Club Manager Telephone/survey Apex AFC Gordon Larkin Club Secretary Telephone/survey Ferguslie Star AFC Thomas Kerr Club Secretary Telephone/survey Linwood Thistle AFC Gary McDonald Club Secretary Telephone/survey Linwood AFC Mark Gray Club Secretary Telephone/survey Parkmoor Boys Club Gordon Coulter Club Secretary Telephone/survey Inchinnan Community Club (ICC) Duncan MacLean Club Secretary Telephone/survey Paisley, Johnstone & District YFL Elizabeth Canning League Secretary Survey/email Paisley & District AFA Jackie Loughhlin General Secretary Survey/email Glasgow & District Youth Football League Andy Sandilands Match Secretary Survey/email Greater Glasgow Premier AFL George Butler League Secretary Survey/email Abbey Athletic AFC Scott Raeside Club Secretary Telephone/survey Abercorn AFC Grant Wilson Club Secretary Telephone/survey AFC Fulbar Craig Hammond Club Secretary Telephone/survey Tannahill AFC Gerry McDonagh Club Secretary Telephone/survey Arkleston Athletic Stephen McCallum Club Secretary Telephone/survey Mar Thistle FC Ian Sutherland Club Secretary Telephone/survey Erskine Amateurs - Club Secretary Telephone/survey Bridgewater Boys Club Ben Cox Club Secretary Telephone/survey Calderglen AFC Derrick Hodgson Club Secretary Telephone/survey Kilbarchan Thistle AFC Elizabeth McDonald Club Secretary Telephone/survey Carlton YMCA AFC Stewart Douglas Gordon Anderson Club Secretary Telephone/survey Houston United Boys FC Gavin McCallum Chairman Telephone/survey St Conval’s YFC Phil Hughes - Face to face Strikerz Gareth Gentles - Telephone/survey Page 78 Page 169 of 170
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RENFREWSHIRE COUNCIL SPORTS PITCHES, PLAYING FIELDS & PAVILIONS ASSESSMENT April 2014 Knight Kavanagh & Page 61 Organisation Name Designation Type Ferguslie CC Sam Scott Junior Convenor Survey/email Kelburne CC Martin Pollock Junior Convenor Survey/email Renfrew CC Sajid Majeed Director of Operations & Sponsorship Convenor Face to face Bishopton Rugby Club Graeme Adam Club President Survey/email Paisley Rugby Club Grant Murney Club President Face to face Kelburne Hockey Club Billy Anderson Club President Face to face Page 79 Page 170 of 170