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News • September 14th, 2026
|A significant upgrade is on the way for football enthusiasts in York, as plans have been confirmed for a new state-of-the-art football pitch at the Burnholme Sports Centre. This exciting development, which will provide a full-sized FIFA Quality 3G pitch, is set to enhance the local sporting landscape and cater to the increasing demand for quality football facilities in the city.
New Pitch Details
The new pitch at Burnholme Sports Centre is part of an initiative approved in the latest City of York Council Executive meeting. This full-sized 3G pitch will replace the existing seven-a-side pitch, ensuring that players have access to top-notch facilities. The project is contingent on obtaining the necessary planning permission, but the positive steps taken so far indicate that the development is well on its way.
Funding and Support
The financial backing for this project is impressive, with a significant contribution of £709,000 coming from the Football Foundation, which is supported by the Premier League, The FA, and the Government. This foundation is dedicated to improving grassroots sports facilities across England, ensuring that communities can enjoy the benefits of high-quality pitches. Additional funding will be provided by GLL, the organisation that manages and operates the Burnholme facility.
Furthermore, the City of York Council has allocated £100,000 from its budget, which was approved in a recent council meeting on September 9, 2026. This collaborative effort demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing local sports infrastructure.
Community Impact
The improvements at Burnholme Sports Centre are expected to have a significant impact on the local community.
Councillor Pete Kilbane, the Executive Member for Economy and Culture, expressed enthusiasm for the project:
“Following York City’s promotion, this is yet another great football win for the city.”
He highlighted that the upgraded facilities will be used for over 50 hours a week, translating to 2,500 hours a year, catering to all types of footballers, including casual players and those in league teams.
This new pitch aims to be inclusive, allowing everyone, regardless of age or ability, to enjoy the game. Councillor Kilbane added, “Who knows? Maybe the next Lionel Messi or Lucy Bronze will be playing their first football right here at Burnholme Sports Centre.” Such aspirations reflect the hope that this facility will nurture future talents in the sport.
Long-term Benefits
Paul Bickle, the Partnership Manager for GLL in York, emphasised the importance of this project for the community:
“The joint tender with GLL, City of York Council and the Football Foundation is testament to the strong partnership working that has developed across the city.”
This initiative is not just about building a pitch; it’s about creating opportunities for local clubs, players, and coaches, while addressing the growing demand for women’s and girls’ football.
The upgraded facilities will also ensure the long-term sustainability of the site, providing a high-quality environment for grassroots football. This is crucial for fostering a love for the sport among younger generations and encouraging a more active lifestyle within the community.
A transformative impact
Robert Sullivan, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation, spoke about the broader significance of such projects:
“Good quality playing facilities have a transformative impact on physical and mental health and play an important role in bringing people together and strengthening local communities.”
The planned upgrades at Burnholme Sports Centre are set to provide York’s football community with a much-needed boost, reflecting a shared commitment to sports and active leisure.
