A DECISION by Solihull Council to carry out a ‘play pitch strategy’ review early next year following the concerns raised by the cricketing community in Solihull has been welcomed by local MP Julian Knight.
After being contacted by local cricket clubs and the Warwickshire Cricket Board, Mr Knight approached the council about the lack of cricket pavilion capacity across the borough that has resulted in several teams having to play and train outside the area.
Following his intervention, the council has agreed to conduct a review of its play pitch strategy with Mr Knight making it clear that more provision is vital.
“I am huge fan of cricket, indeed, in Parliament I chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Cricket that aims to promote the sport across all levels in Whitehall,” said Mr Knight.
“We need more pavilion capacity in Solihull, and I welcome the news that the council will review its play pitch strategy early next year.”
The current strategy, adopted in 2017, provides the council with a framework to deliver and provide much needed pitch capacity for local teams.
Having a strategy in place also provides evidence for the authority and local teams to use when applying for external grants.
Mr Knight added: “It is most welcome that more Silhillians want to take up cricket, but its only right those joining local teams get to play locally and don’t have to travel miles outside of the area just to train.”
