Work nears completion on landmark new £4.1 million football facility in Hoyland Common

The new £4.1 million Forge Parkside Centre represents a major investment in grassroots sports provision by Barnsley Council and its partners.  

It has been supported by an investment of £1.5 million from the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation.  

This will transform grassroots football provision and create a vibrant, inclusive space for a wide range of recreational and community uses.  

Minister for Sport and Barnsley South MP, Stephanie Peacock, joined local councillors, Barnsley Council representatives and partners for a preview visit of the new facilities today (Tuesday 24 March).  

Due to open to the public soon, the centre will be managed by the Forge Parkside Centre and will provide opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to connect, participate and thrive.  

At the heart of the site is one of the largest oversized artificial turf football pitches in the country, significantly increasing year-round capacity for training, matches and grassroots development regardless of weather conditions.   

Alongside this, the site will also introduce archery provision and flexible outdoor activity space, supporting alternative sports, skill development and inclusive participation.  

The development also includes a modern community centre with fully accessible changing facilities and a welcoming café, function rooms and multi-use studios, creating a space where people can meet, relax and build social connections.   

Beyond sport, the Forge Parkside Centre will a diverse programme of activity including:  

· Social and recreational sessions for families and residents  

· Health and wellbeing programmes  

· Youth engagement and holiday activity provision  

· Informal play, community events and group activities  

· Opportunities for volunteering and community leadership  

Cllr James Higginbottom, Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment and Highways, said: 

“The new Parkside Centre will provide a fantastic range of opportunities for people to enjoy sport, recreation and community life. 

“I want to thank the Football Foundation and all partner organisations who have helped make this project a reality. This investment will benefit the Hoyland Common community and people across Barnsley for many years to come.”  

This investment supports Barnsley’s long-term ambition to improve health and wellbeing, reduce isolation, and provide high-quality, accessible opportunities for people to lead active and fulfilling lives.  

Minister for Sport and Barnsley South MP, Stephanie Peacock, said:  

 “Sport has a unique power to bring communities together and the new £4.1 million investment in Forge Parkside Centre will improve access to grassroots sports.   

“A brilliant new pitch and community centre will provide a safe, high-quality space where people can come together and stay active.  
  
“I was pleased to join the local council and the Football Foundation as both the local MP and the Sports Minister to see this great new facility."  

Robert Sullivan, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation, said:  

“The Football Foundation is working closely with our partners – the Premier League, The FA and Government – to transform the quality of grassroots facilities in England by delivering projects like this across the country.   

“We know the impact these resources will have on the community, helping us to achieve our aim of ensuring that everyone, no matter who they are or where they live in the country, has access to a great place to play.”