CHANGES are well underway at a non-league football club thanks to a £3.4m project.

Officers behind the redevelopment of Ringwood Town Football Club’s home ground say they are keen to give more opportunities to women and girls as work continues on new facilities.

An artificial 3G turf pitch was completed at Long Lane and opened for football training in February this year, while construction work continues on a two-storey pavilion which will house changing rooms, offices and a clubhouse.

New Forest District Council contributed £535,000 towards the Ringwood Community Hub from developer contributions, with the overall project costing £3.4m. 

The project has also been jointly run by Ringwood Town Council and AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust.

Cllr Dan Poole, member for community, safety and wellbeing, said: “This grant means that the local community will benefit from fantastic facilities.

“As part of the development, we’ll see more opportunities for women’s and girl’s football, disability football and walking football.

“We also hope to see wider community focused programmes such as community safety initiatives and cognitive reminiscence sessions.”

AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust community head Steve Cuss added: “The pavilion will offer a great football and community setting that can be enjoyed by existing players and new participants who will be able to take part in a variety of activities onsite covering education, physical activity, inclusive programmes and social opportunities.”

The pavillion is due to be completed for February 2024.