CITY cricket club bosses have secured £1.4million in funding to build a new community centre. 

Worcester Norton Cricket Club has secured money to build a new community centre from S106 funding given to them by Wychavon District Council. 

The funding will be used to put in a new community centre and new changing rooms on the grounds.

Kevin Fincher, chairman of the Parish Council and chairman of the Worcester Norton Community Interest Company (CIC), said: "£1.4 million is going to be spent on the site.

"We want the community to use this place. 

"I've lived near here for 26 years, when I first came there was a great community ethos.

"We are trying to get it back and make it more welcoming for the community. 

Over the years the site has become a popular spot for children and dog walkers to use. 

"When Brockhill was built, this site was assumed as the local green space but it's always been private. 

"The money is for the new development. It's public money, so it has to be used for the benefit of the public." 

Mr Fincher said Worcester Norton CIC has applied for a 40-year lease from the Worcester Norton Cricket Club in order to start the construction.

"Assuming we get a lease at the end of the month, which we are hopeful. The work should start in about June or July. 

"We know the money is available, but we just need the lease. It will take a year to complete." 

The committee has expressed its excitement about welcoming the local community in Norton to use the new community centre. 

Even though the money has been secured for the new community centre, Worcester Norton Community Interest Company and Worcester Norton Cricket Club are also looking for funding to renovate the Grade II listed buildings on the site.