A ceremonial sod-cutting event has marked the start of work to install an all-weather pitch.

The project, initiated by Worcester City Council, was officially declared underway by the Mayor of Worcester, Cllr Louis Stephen.

Held next to Perdiswell Leisure Centre where the pitch will be located, the event was attended by key figures including Andy Hall, site manager at sports construction contractor S & C Slatters, and David Morris, Freedom Leisure’s general manager at the centre.

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The project came into motion after a shortage of artificial grass pitches in the city was identified.

As part of the council’s Playing Pitch and Outdoor Sports Strategy, Perdiswell was selected as the priority location for the venture.

Funded by the Football Foundation and the council, the tally of the project's cost is approximately £824,000.

Field Turf Tarkett, a leading supplier of synthetic turf, have been appointed to provide the pitch surface.

Lloyd Griffiths, the council’s corporate director of operations, homes and communities, said: "This new facility will be of real benefit to a whole range of sporting teams in the city, including boys’ and girls’ football teams, adult teams and older age groups taking part in activities like walking football.

"Importantly, it will also prevent the need for local teams to travel outside the city to meet their training and match requirements, thus reducing both travel time and their carbon footprint."

Due for completion at the end of August, the pitch is set to open in early September.

By joining other council-owned all-weather fields at St John’s Sports Centre, Nunnery Wood Sports Complex, and King George V Community Hub, the new facility at Perdiswell will enhance accessibility for both casual bookings and registered clubs.

For more information or to check availability, contact Freedom Leisure at perdiswellbooking@freedom-leisure.co.uk.