A grassroots sports club has been granted ownership of Overtown Sports Pitch and Pavilion.
The agreement will enable Fir Park Corner, a registered Scottish charity, to establish the pitch and pavilion as a central hub for their amateur, over-35s, and four children’s teams.
The club also became the first recipient of the Community Asset Fund, which will be put towards improvement works.
David Fraser, chairman of the club, said: “The money we’ve received will enable us to accelerate the works we had planned; we’ll be able to fully revamp the pavilion and relay the carpark.
The club will now begin improvements to the site (Image: North Lanarkshire Council) “We’re absolutely delighted to receive the £100,000 of funding.
“We want to make it a great place to play football and a welcoming place for the whole community.”
The ownership allows the club to expand its offerings for all ages and introduce community events.
Councillor Geraldine Woods, convener of the communities committee, said: “The aim of the fund is to make it easier for community organisations to take on council owned assets where it’s in the interest of local communities and fits with local priorities.
“Organisations can apply for up to £100,000 on successful acceptance of a community ownership or management application.”
Fir Park Corner’s successful bid saw more than 350 residents backing their plans for a community-focused facility dedicated to health, fitness, and local engagement.
The club will now begin improvements to the site, including upgrades to the pitch, pavilion, and surrounding facilities.
Councillor Woods said: “This transfer is a fantastic example of how community asset ownership can bring fresh life to a facility that was under-used.
“Fir Park Corner’s vision and dedication to supporting our community’s health and wellbeing is inspiring, and I look forward to seeing how they will use their new facility for the benefit of local people of all ages.”
Looking ahead, the club plans to develop women’s and additional youth teams, ensuring people of all backgrounds have access to organised sport in a locally-owned facility.
