Work has started to create a new 3G artificial turf pitch and adjacent natural grass rugby pitch and training area at the Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone.

This is the second phase of the £5 Million Common Edge Community Sports Village development which includes new changing rooms and spectator pavilion, a floodlit 3G pitch, floodlit rugby pitch and training area, car parking and improved access to the site.

The first phase saw the creation saw STRI conduct a full design and build project on an 11-hectare site adjacent to the airport, where high quality sports facilities were sought by Blackpool Council for use by the local community. This included 12 new grass pitches immediately followed by the ongoing construction of the changing facilities, which are nearing completion. The pitches were completed in October 2021 and over the summer played host to an international youth football tournament attracting 10,000 visitors from nine different countries to town. STRI Group sponsored the tournament, paying for 60 local youth football teams in addition to equipment that allowed the tournament to go ahead at the site.

STRI Group’s success in the delivery of phase one of the development has led to them being appointed to design and build the new 3G and rugby pitches at the site.

Cllr Mark Smith, Cabinet Member for Business, Enterprise and Job Creation said: “It is great to see the next phase of work at Common Edge under way. The football pitches have already been hugely popular and we look forward to the new rugby facilities being equally as successful.

“I know the contractors, Carrick, are keen to get local labourers and sub-contractors on site which is great for local residents and businesses.”

Tina Jessop, STRI Group representative added: “We’re delighted to have a continued involvement in this development. It was great to deliver phase one, and to see the pitches in action during the youth football tournament earlier this year.

“It’s fabulous to see Carrick start construction on the 3G and rugby pitches, and we’re currently looking for local labourers and suppliers as part of our commitment support the local community.”

Click here to read more about phase 1 of the works and here to read more about STRI’s sponsorship of the Blackpool Cup.