The Government has announced £231,000 for Houghton Field Association following their successful bid, supported by Alicia Kearns MP, for a share of the Government’s Community Ownership Fund (COF).
The group bid for funding to invest in a new pavilion/community centre in Houghton on the Hill, which will allow more people to enjoy the mass of sporting opportunities or just take in the beautiful countryside.
Planning permission was granted by Harborough District Council last year and the project will receive a massive boost from this investment. The Houghton Field Association regularly puts on fundraising events and dinners so those wishing to contribute, or just enjoy a lovely evening, should look into attending one!
Alicia Kearns, Member of Parliament for Rutland and Melton, said:
"Father Christmas has delivered an early present this year, with a festive £231,000 grant to the wonderful Houghton Field Association to help fund their new pavilion community centre at Houghton on the Hill!”
“I know how much planning and time has gone into this project and the team absolutely deserve this boost from the Government’s Community Ownership Fund. You can already find football, basketball, tennis, and more in Houghton on the Hill, and with this upgrade the site will continue to attract visitors from across the Harborough Villages and beyond.”
“I also hope this investment will boost the Houghton Rangers – Champions of the Leicester and District football league!”
“After working with the team and supporting their bid by raising it with the Government, I know how much this funding means to them, and their journey to secure this funding has by no means been smooth sailing. All thanks to the group for their hard work and incredible vision towards this wonderful project.
“Congratulations and a very Happy Christmas to all the group, and I very much look forward to visiting the new pavilion in Houghton on the Hill when work is complete.”
Jacob Young MP, Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Minister, said:
“I’m really pleased that we are able to fund this project for Houghton Field Association, who clearly have such a passion for their community.
“The local MP, Alicia Kearns, has explained to me just how important this project is, and I have no doubt the new pavilion will offer a new heart to the community in Houghton on the Hill.”
Graham Warwick, Houghton Field Association member, said:
“The trustees of Houghton Field Association are delighted to receive this grant from the UK Community Ownership Fund. This funding brings us one step closer to realising our vision of a new community and sports building.
“We are grateful for the support from the COF and look forward to working with the Football Foundation and other stakeholders to secure the remaining funding.
“The successful completion of this project will provide the village with a new, up to date and energy efficient facility of which the community and users can be proud. This community facility will enrich the activities available in Houghton-on-the-Hill, promote the development of new groups and activities within the local community and cater to individuals of all age groups and abilities for years to come.”
