Soccer scheme ready for kick-off

Oldham’s support for grassroots football could all be going to plan after a launch this week.

The Local Area Plan has been published by the Oldham Partnership, the Football Association, Manchester County FA, Oldham Athletic Community Trust and Oldham Community Leisure.

The aim is to support the growth and development of grassroots football, from retaining and increasing participation, raising standards, developing better players, to supporting volunteers and improving facilities, with the support of the grassroots football community.

All participating local clubs were invited to view the plan at Oldham Athletic’s Boundary Park ground on Monday and last night.

Councillor John McCann, cabinet member for community services and housing, said: “We are very pleased to be working with the FA and other partners to explore any options for developing football in Oldham, particularly at Clayton Playing Fields, but there are no firm proposals at this stage.

“I am particularly pleased at the prospect of more resources coming into the borough.”

Peter Kay, national investment manager for the FA said: “The Local Area Plan is a real step in the right direction, although its ability to really make a difference locally will ultimately depend on the ongoing support and commitment from the grassroots community in the town.

“These are exciting times for sport and football in Oldham.”