UPGRADES for football facilities in Thornbury have taken a step forward with the start of a public consultation.

Among the proposals put forward by Thornbury Town Football Club, the Number One pitch on the Mundy Playing Fields would be equipped with a 100-seat stand and new dugouts on the west side of the pitch, as well as six 15m floodlights.

The pitch would also be enclosed by a permanent 1.85m fence with lockable access gates and turnstiles.

A hard surface path would also connect the pitch to the pavilion, which itself would see an upgrade in changing facilities for teams and referees, and toilets for both player and public use.

Totalling £120,000, the improvements are the next step in ambitious plans for the team to compete in higher leagues, with many of the changes required for the club to make the advance.

Toni Watola, chairman of Thornbury Town Football Club, said: “Following the success of the first team over the last few years we feel that promotion to a higher level is within our reach.

“Unfortunately, the facilities at the Mundy’s do not meet the criteria set by the Football Association for the next level of football.

“We have therefore discussed these requirements with Thornbury Town Council who have been supportive of our aims and we are working with them to achieve the necessary criteria, and this consultation exercise is part of that process.”

As owners of the playing fields, the town council has been heavily involved in the process, having offered its support to the proposals, which, subject to planning permission, could start as early as next year.

Cllr Clive Parkinson, chairman of the town council playing fields and cemetery committee, added: “The Town Council supports the improvement of sports facilities within the town and at this early stage we are keen to hear the views of local residents, users of the Mundy Playing Fields and the wider community on these proposals.”

A drop-in consultation event has been planned for Wednesday, July 27, between 3pm and 7pm at the pavilion on the Mundy Playing Fields.

Plans for the improvements will be available to view, with officials from the club and representatives from the town council available for questioning.

Copies of the plans and associated information will also be available to view from the town hall and council’s website from July 22.

Comments from the consultation should be sent to the Town Council by August 26, and as well as any questions or views on the plans. They should be sent to clerk@thornburytowncouncil.gov.uk or by calling on 01454 412103.