The Cymru Football Foundation has opened our latest Fit-For-Future Facilities-funded project by Ysgol y Felinheli thanks to support from UK Government.
Opened by Cymru legend Kevin Ratcliffe, the CFF – backed by UK Government – has invested just over £450,000 into the creation of a brand-new multi-sport facility, alongside additional support from the Premier League, Menter Môn and the club’s fundraising efforts.
Previously a un-used patch of grass, Clwb Chwaraeon Seilo’s new facility provides a new training home for CPD Felinheli seniors and juniors and CPD Merched y Felinheli – who all have previously had to share the only grass pitch in the village or travel to other locations around the surrounding area.
The new facility will also act as a hub for junior football across Felinheli, provide a significant boost to grassroots football in the local area and be a safe environment for Ysgol Y Felinheli’s P.E sessions.
Regular training sessions will also return all year round and allow the club to re-invest the funds they were previously spending on alternative training locations.
Speaking at the opening of the facility, Ratcliffe said:
“You didn’t have facilities like this in my day so it’s great to see the work that the Foundation is doing to make football more accessible for everyone. It’s fantastic for the area and much needed.”
Director at Clwb Chwaraeon Seilo, Huw Watkins said:
“Football is thriving at this special community. For far too long, the village have had to negotiate access to playing and training facilities, cancel fixtures and travel out from the village to train, especially during the winter months. This new facility will transform access to much needed facilities, drive engagement and contribute towards an active lifestyle for all concerned.”
“The partnership with Ysgol Y Felinheli is a win-win for all, maximising usage and providing new opportunities that were previously unavailable. We are grateful to the funders and Cyngor Gwynedd for their valuable support in bringing the project to life.”
Director at the Cymru Football Foundation, Aled Lewis said:
“The Cymru Football Foundation is committed to investing in facilities that inspire communities. This new facility in Felinheli will enable more players to play, improve the experiences of current players and enable the club to provide a wide range of activities for their community.
“A huge thank you to our partners, UK Government, in supporting the development of such a high-quality facility.
“Thanks to the support of our partners, we’re making huge strides in improving football facilities in Wales on and off the pitch.”
The CFF supports the development of football through investment and guidance as it delivers the Football Association of Wales’ commitment to develop inspirational fit-for-future football facilities that will improve and grow Welsh football both on and off the pitch.
Since February 2022, the CFF has invested over £17 million into supporting fit-for-future facilities across the country.
We’re welcoming expressions of interest from clubs, local authorities and charitable organisations – find out more here.
