WEST Hagley Football Club could soon be playing host to some state-of-the-art changing facilities if sufficient funding can be put in place.

Planning permission has already been granted to replace the club's current changing rooms on Hagley Playing Fields which are now deemed to be well past their sell by date and it is hoped work will start on the new facility in April.

The new build would incorporate two changing rooms, disabled toilets, showers, a cafe and kitchen area, storage room, referee's room and a club area.

The total cost is expected to reach in the region of £180,000 and the scheme has already received the backing of both Worcestershire County FA and the Football Foundation.

Hagley Parish Council chairman and district councillor Steve Colella, who has also been project leader of the scheme, said: “We desperately need this new facility as the current changing rooms are no longer fit for purpose. They were built in the 1960's and look the part. We need to move with the times.

“The existing changing rooms are already used by hundreds of children and adults every year. But West Hagley FC want to increase the number of girls playing in addition to setting up a ladies team and a walking football side for the over-50's and less mobile people.

“The most cost effective way is to knock down the current changing rooms and rebuild them.

“We are currently making bids to secure funding support to foundations and charity commissioners, including local businesses and stakeholders.

“Once enough funding is in place, we can start work as we're looking to complete the new building by September.

“The demand for this facility is great because West Hagley already run sides going through all the age groups.

“They have especially young children down for training and coaching every Saturday morning and it's good to get them getting into good lifestyle habits.

“We've got five to six bids in at the moment and we're just waiting for them to get back to us before we can start the process.

“It's a big project, but one that is really needed now as Hagley continues to grow.”