Grassroots football clubs in Kent have been handed a boost with launch of a new strategy to improve playing fields and facilities.

The FA Facilities Strategy has set a target of improving 3,000 natural pitches nationwide, building 150 third-generation artificial pitches and developing all-weather surfaces whilst refurbishing changing rooms and toilets on a range of selected sites.

The Kent FA has endorsed the FA Facilities Strategy and will continue to work in partnership with the FA and Football Foundation to protect, improve and develop football facilities throughout Kent.

The targets in the FA Facilities Strategy are a continuation of the objectives of the Kent FA’s ‘Ahead of the Game’ policy document, outlining the county’s ongoing development strategy.

Darryl Haden, Kent FA County Development Manager welcomed the news.

“We’ve been working with the Football Foundation and the FA to improve existing grass fields, build new grass and artificial fields and working closely with local authorities to protect football sites from housing and other commercial development.”

“It is imperative that we continue to support clubs, leagues, schools and community organisations to provide opportunities for all of Kent’s community to have access to a quality, safe and enjoyable football experience.”

“This new facilities strategy will provide direction and investment to support our work.”

The three-year plan will be delivered by The FA in consultation with partners the Premier League, Sport England and the Football Foundation, with an expected £150m invested across the UK.

Since 2000 the Kent FA has attracted over £24m to be invested in grassroots facility projects, with £11.5m through the Football Foundation.”

Paul Thorogood, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation, recognised the importance of continuing to fund football facilities.

“With 84% of people citing ‘poor facilities’ as their most pressing issue, the grassroots game has made it abundantly clear where it thinks the priority for investment should be.”