Football pitches come home to Woodside Park, Dudley

Sports pitches on Woodside Park in Dudley have been brought back into use in time for the football season. The park used to hold regular organised football matches but demand dropped in recent years and the area was used as more of a general recreation space.

Councillors Damian Corfield and Karen Shakespeare, with Mike Wood MP at Woodside Park

But now, due to increased demand from the community, the football pitches on the Dudley Council-run park will once again welcome the return of organised football.

The local authority has now marked out the pitches and new goal posts are being installed - ready for the start of the football season.

Councillor Damian Corfield, who represents Netherton, Woodside and St Andrews Ward, said: "I have been listening to local people and, after being elected in May this year, I approached the council to ask for the football pitches to be marked out again on Woodside Park as many local teams are looking for somewhere to play.

"Especially after such an uncertain 12 months for everyone, physical exercise is key to our mental well-being.

"I look forward to seeing local teams playing football once again in the park."

Dudley South MP Mike Wood said: "The excitement of this year's Euros gave a real boost to football - but the demand for the return of pitches here at Woodside Park had been building before then.

"Teams of all ages have shown an interest. And as a big supporter of grassroots sports I really want to congratulate Damian and all involved in making this happen.

"Who knows, maybe the next Harry Kane, Jack Grealish or Bukayo Saka could kick their first ball right here at Woodside Park."

Councillor Karen Shakespeare, Dudley Council's cabinet member for public realm, said: "Woodside Park is a beautiful park in the heart of the community and provides a wonderful space for local people to get out and about and be active.

"It's great to see there is demand in the local community once again for football pitches in the Woodside area.

"Grassroots sports, such as football, are a great way to encourage children to be outdoors and active and find a passion for something they enjoy."

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