With the goal of improving access to sport for under-privileged local youngsters, the project has overseen the funding and development of a new all-weather football facility serving deprived areas in the south-west of the town and the wider borough.
Opening in the summer of 2023, the Centre incorporates an FA approved synthetic 7-a-side football pitch, accessible changing rooms and toilet facilities, and a site office.
Named in honour of legendary former Walsall FC manager and honorary ISSA member Chris Nicholl, the Centre offers access to schools and community organisations looking to supplement their physical education activities, whilst providing a modern and affordable hire facility for local people.
Development has been made possible by £264,000 of government grants and independent funding acquired from The Alan Edwards Higgins Trust, The Enovert Community Trust, The Football Foundation, Suez Communities Fund and Walsall Council.
The Site
The pitch and surrounding premises have been developed on land connected to the LMRCA Railway Club on Wednesbury Road, just a mile from Walsall Town Centre.
The new 3G playing surface sits on the site of a former bowling green that fell into disuse and disrepair following the Coronavirus pandemic. The floodlights and parts of the original drainage system remain and form part of the new installation.
The development includes the construction of a modern changing block with home, away and referee dressing rooms that will serve the centre and ISSA FC.
Stakeholders
Since October 2021, three key stakeholder organisations have worked closely to achieve funding for the Chris Nicholl Soccer Centre and to successfully develop the site:
The LMRCA Railway Club
The Independent Saddlers Supporters Association (ISSA)
Independent Saddlers Supporters Association FC (ISSA FC)
These three organisations, led by committed volunteers, will remain active in the day-to-day running of the centre and meet as a committee each month.
Named in honour of legendary former Walsall FC manager Chris Nicholl, the Centre will offer access to schools and community organisations looking to supplement their physical education activities, whilst providing a modern and affordable hire facility for local people.
Development has been made possible by £264,000 of government grants and independent funding acquired from The Alan Edwards Higgins Trust, The Enovert Community Trust, The Football Foundation, Suez Communities Fund and Walsall Council.