There is truly a need for new 3G pitches in two of Ynys Môn’s biggest communities, according to Plaid Cymru Assembly Member for Ynys Môn Rhun ap Iorwerth, who has asked Welsh Government to commit to supporting projects that would see new 3G pitch facilities developed in Amlwch and Holyhead.
77 new 3G pitches have been invested in across Wales in recent years due to Welsh Government funding, with the target of reaching 100 pitches by 2024, but Ynys Môn AM Rhun ap Iorwerth has insisted that more investment is needed, and that the island needs to see further 3G facilities developed in two of its biggest towns.
In a question to Welsh Government today, Mr ap Iorwerth said:
“I would encourage you to invest further and to invest specifically in Ynys Môn. Referring to the earlier question on international football, there’ll be no international football without successful grass-roots football in our towns and villages. I look forward to following Wales to Azerbaijan later this year, but we won’t be able to do that in coming years unless we invest in the grass roots.
“There’s a wonderful 3G facility in Llangefni and there’s going to be investment in upgrading facilities in Menai Bridge. We truly need new 3G pitches in Holyhead and Amlwch, and I’ve held meetings already with representatives of those communities, who are willing to do whatever is necessary to bring that investment in.
“The local authority has a plan to invest over the next few years, but we need that investment now. I ask for a commitment from the Government to work with me and with others to ensure that we explore all means possible of drawing the funding in to bring these resources, which are so crucial, not only for the future of the beautiful game but for the health of our nation too.”
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Today I pressed Welsh Gov. for a commitment to support the real need for new 3G pitches in Holyhead and Amlwch and received a positive response from the Minister.
I will continue to push for this vital investment into new community sports facilities on the island.
— Rhun ap Iorwerth (@RhunapIorwerth) January 8, 2020
Welsh Government Minister Dafydd Elis-Thomas responded, adding:
“Naturally, I’m going to agree with that. I had the opportunity of opening a new pitch in Parc Eirias in the county that I live in, and I know how important this resource is for all sorts of sporting activities where these pitches are suitable.
“So, what I will do is convey what has been said here today to Sport Wales and ask for a further report on the progress that they’re making in Ynys Môn in particular. I accept that it’s not possible to have international football in Wales unless it includes Anglesey as well.”
