Improvement works to playing fields at Burrows in Leckhampton have been approved and funds have been earmarked for levelling and drainage works to the football pitches.

These improvements form part of a project Cheltenham Borough Council is working on with Leckhampton Rovers Football Club (LRFC) who has made the Burrows their home ground.

The £355,372 funding was secured by Tewkesbury Borough Council through Section 106 (funding gained from new developments to ensure communities have access to new facilities or that existing facilities can be updated and maintained) as part of planning approval for a development at Farm Lane, situated on the border between Tewkesbury Borough and Cheltenham District.

"We're delighted to have this funding approved. The pitch improvements, which have now also been given planning permission, will make a huge difference to everyone who uses this much valued green space," said councillor Flo Clucas, cabinet member for healthy lifestyles at Cheltenham Borough Council.

Mark Beaney, trustee at LRFC, said: "The club is really excited about the project and the funding will enable the whole community to enjoy fantastic outdoor facilities for formal and recreational activities at the Burrows."

Councillor Richard Stanley, lead member for health and wellbeing at Tewkesbury Borough Council, added: "We're delighted to see investment in these facilities - it will have such a positive impact on the community and encourage participation in healthy, active lifestyles across all age groups. As our population increases, so too does demand on our community clubs. This funding will enable the club to plan for the long-term future and ensure our residents have access to quality sports facilities for many years to come."

The second phase of the new footpath around the fields is also hoped to start soon to improve accessibility for residents using the green space. The path will be made of binding gravel and will connect the pavilion with the pedestrian access along Merlin Way and Peregrine Road.

A third and final phase will be added as part of the pitch improvement works, this will make a full perimeter path around the fields. A further £10,000 funding for this work has been identified from Gloucestershire County Council's 'Growing our communities' pot.

Councillor Iain Dobie, borough and county councillor, added: "I'm really pleased that the county council are funding the extension of the path round the field and I'm proud to be working with LRFC and Cheltenham Borough Council to make improvements to Burrows for the benefit of our residents."