Councillor Anthony Hunt (Leader) (Executive Member for Strategic Leadership) approved the allocation of up to £200,000 from the Members' Policy Choice Reserve to fund the development of a 3G pitch¹ at Blaenavon Heritage Primary School. The meeting also noted the work programme of the Governance and Audit Committee.

3G Pitch Development in Blaenavon

Councillor Anthony Hunt (Leader) (Executive Member for Strategic Leadership) approved the allocation of up to £200,000 from the Members' Policy Choice Reserve for a 3G pitch to be developed in the Blaenavon area.

The report requesting the funding noted that £1.5 million was allocated to earmarked reserves as part of finalising the financial outturn position for the 2021/22 financial year, for the purpose of member policy choice. At the time of the report, £565,000 from the Members' Policy Choice Reserve had already been committed for various uses, leaving a remaining balance of £935,000.

The report Cat A Report Members Policy Choice Reserve Funding BHS 3G. 12 august 25 noted the strategic need for 3G pitch development in the north of the borough, as existing pitches are located in Llantarnam Primary school, Cwmbran High school, Ysgol Gymraeg Gwynllyw (Trevethin area) and Abersychan High school.

The report stated that:

In order to ensure equitable access to 3G facilities across the Local Authority, it is necessary that there is development in the North of the Borough. A 3G facility in Blaenavon would provide a greater degree of equitable access throughout the Borough and would be a valuable resource for the community as well as the school. Development of such provision would promote the key Marmot principles and help challenge health inequalities.

The proposed location for the 3G pitch is adjacent to Blaenavon Heritage school. An initial quote of £125,518 (+VAT) has been established for laying the pitch over the existing Multi Use Games Area (MUGA). The pitch will be tested against World Rugby and FIFA compliance standards. A contingency of £74,482 has been allocated to cover potential additional costs, such as drainage work and LED floodlight conversion.

Following the decision, due process will be followed, including procurement and tendering, and works will commence at the earliest opportunity, with consultation with the school and governing body.

Governance and Audit Committee Work Programme

The Governance and Audit Committee's work programme was noted.