WORK has begun to build a new full size 3G synthetic turf pitch at Gagarin Way, in Lumphinnans, with changing facilities and car parking as part of the development of the new Tesco store in Cowdenbeath.

The project will transform North End Park into a superstore and a key part of the plan is to replace the football facility with the project in Lumphinnans.

The development will also see the upgrading of the site’s three grass pitches as part of a planning condition following sale of the land at North End Park in Cowdenbeath. The work at Lumphinnans is the first phase of the project and will be completed before the store is developed on the current football pitch at the north end of High Street.

The football facility should be finished by December and then the work on the creation of the superstore will get fully underway.

Lochgelly and Cardenden Councillor Mark Hood, an Executive Committee Member on Fife Council, has visited the site to see the progress and was delighted with what he saw. He said, “The new synthetic turf pitch facilities will really enhance what’s on offer here and I’m pleased to see work on it now underway.

“Maintaining and improving the sports facilities we have is an important factor in helping to keep people of all ages and abilities active. Securing this investment through a section 75 planning condition has allowed us to do that and this new football hub at Gagarin Way is a welcome investment”.

He added, “I look forward to seeing it in use, when completed towards the end of the year.

“I’m also sure both Lumphinnans United, and Hearts of Beath FC, the club that will relocate from North End Park, will be very happy with the facilities on offer here.”