THE CHAIRMAN of Ledbury Rugby Club has admitted ‘the hard work starts now’ after securing the ownership of the Ross Road playing fields.
As part of the community asset transfer scheme, Herefordshire Council has agreed to transfer the site, where Ledbury ply their trade, to the rugby club in a bid establish a more secure sporting future.
The move will ensure the sports outfit has complete control over the fields and will also mean the site cannot be the subject of housing or commercial development.
Chairman Jeremy Thomas said: “Our partnership with the council has been excellent and we will be sorry to see it end as they have provided great support over the years.
“However, with increasing pressure on discretionary spend, the level of future support from the council was likely to be threatened by the need to divert resources to areas of critical need.
“The hard work starts now, but we are confident we can step up a gear and in doing so safeguard the facilities for all the users of the site.
“We look forward to giving more local rugby players and supporters the chance to play and enjoy the game at Ross Road.”
Ledbury’s first team have had a successful campaign so far as they sit sixth in the Midlands 3 West (South) and have won seven of their last eight.
Coun Harry Bramer, cabinet member for contracts and assets, added: “The council is always looking for ways to transfer public assets to local groups and communities where it is appropriate.
“We are committed to encouraging individuals, communities and organisations to do more for themselves and for their local area.
“The rugby club already owns the majority of the building at Ross Road having developed the site extensively over the last 20 years and managed the whole site as tenants.
“We are more than happy the great work will carry on and ensure the playing fields continue to provide public use and enjoyment.”
