FOOTBALLERS are set to benefit from a pitch perfect £200k new surface at a busy facility in the east end of Greenock.

A new 3G pitch has been installed at Lady Octavia Sports Centre following investment by Inverclyde Council.

The surface meets quality standards set out by world football governing body FIFA and it comes complete with a brand new set of 11-a-side goals.

The sports centre and outdoor pitches are managed by Inverclyde Leisure.

Councillor Jim Clocherty, depute leader of the council and convener of education and communities, said: “The investment in the pitch and sports centre here at Lady Octavia highlights our ongoing commitment to sport and leisure to provide first-class facilities right across Inverclyde.

“We have incredible outdoor and indoor facilities but it’s important to maintain high standards and that’s why we’re continuing to invest, along with our partners Inverclyde Leisure, in sites like Lady Octavia.

“I am sure the new surface and 11-a-side goals will be much appreciated by the many teams and individuals who play here.”

Almost £1.2m has been spent this year alone on the 3G pitches at Inverclyde Academy, Parklea in Port Glasgow and Wemyss Bay Primary, as well as Lady Octavia.

Councillor Ronnie Ahlfeld, Inverclyde’s sports champion, said: “We all know how important it is to maintain an active lifestyle for the benefit of physical and mental health.

“Continued investment in our leisure sites, including here at Lady Octavia, ensures residents all over Inverclyde have high-quality facilities that are easy to access and where they can enjoy exercising, whether that’s with a game of football or the other sports that can be played on 3G pitches all year round.”

Robert McVitie, Inverclyde Leisure operations manager, said: “In partnership with Inverclyde Council, we are delighted to welcome another upgrade across our football estate.

“The pitch is now FIFA quality performance requirements-approved.

“This will be a welcome addition at Lady Octavia to help serve the community of Inverclyde.

“The facilities are well used by local grassroots football teams as well as the wider community for recreational football.”

*For booking enquiries for Lady Octavia and other outdoor pitches, including school lets, call 01475 213131 or email bookingoffice@inverclydeleisure.com

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FIELD OF DREAMS From left are Councillor Michael McCormick, Robert McVitie and Stewart Burns from Inverclyde Leisure and Councillor Jim Clocherty at the new 3G pitch.