Pitches reopen after facelift

The synthetic pitches at Kirkwall Grammar School, Picky and Stromness have reopened after being given a new lease of life.

The upgrade means that Orkney’s sports people will be able to continue training and enjoying their respective sports throughout the winter months.

The Council’s Team Leader Sport and Leisure, Sarah Johnston, said: “Condition surveys were carried out on the pitches, which are nearly ten years old, and it was agreed that they should be replaced.

“People using them may have noticed that the surface was getting a little flatter to play on underfoot so we are hoping that they will notice a welcome change and improvement when they return to the pitches again.

“The pitches are well used and allow a number of sports to keep going over the winter months, which is, in turn, leading to a rising standard among our sports people.

“We must thank the clubs for their patience while the works were carried out.”

Chair of the Council’s Education, Leisure and Housing Committee, Councillor Gwenda Shearer, added: “This investment now should secure the future of the pitches for many years to come and shows the value with which we all place on the physical and mental health benefits to come from taking part in sports all year round.

“As the schools return this week and many clubs restart their active programmes for the term, it will be a welcome boost to all ages.”

There was finance in place to fund the works as part of the Schools Investment Programme under the allowance made for Life Cycle Works.

Galiford Try were the main contractor, who sub-contracted the re-laying works to a specialist. Work started at Picky on 15 June, followed by KGS and Stromness.