Sports Groups Frustrated As No Date Given For Reopening Of Sandown Astroturf

Thursday, 22 October 2020 12:56

Sports groups who use the all-weather astroturf pitch in Sandown have been left confused and frustrated with its closure - seven months since play was first stopped.

The gates were locked back in March when all sport was halted due to the coronavirus pandemic.

But despite the Government giving the go-ahead for team sport to resume back in August, the Sandown facility - run by the Isle of Wight Council - remains shut.

A brand new 4G pitch was installed last year, along with new safety fencing, at a cost of more than £100,000.

Similar facilities have been open for several weeks in Ryde and Cowes, with weekly football leagues back underway. And as Island football continues to thrive, teams have been left wondering when they'll be able to get back playing on the pitch.

One user told Isle of Wight Radio:

"We all know how important fitness and exercise is, and it's very odd why it is still closed when others are open.

"As the winter weather comes in, the 4G pitch becomes even more important for footballers."

Another said:

"So many groups and teams want to get back playing. It's been a tough few months for everyone, but team sport has been allowed since August.

"With council-run leisure centres at The Heights and Medina open, I don't see why this remains shut? It needs to reopen, so we can start using it again safely."

There could be some light at the end of the tunnel though, with the council confirming a a review will be finalised next month (November).

An Isle of Wight Council Spokesperson said:

"The astroturf facility at The Fairway, Sandown – which is shared with the school - is still currently closed to community use, but the matter is currently under review, and the public will be notified of any update.

"The council is keen to see it reopened for community use as soon as is achievable, and is engaging in discussions with the school around all COVID-secure issues, in particular around how community use may impact on the school facilities and its COVID-secure operations.

"It is envisaged the review and these discussions should be concluded by mid-November, subject of course to any changes in the national and local position regarding restrictions."