New life for New Hall Hey with £50,000 investment from ECB
Rossendale Borough Council has announced that cricket will soon be back at New Hall Hey, reviving the much-loved local site through an exciting new partnership with Inspire Support Sports Empower (ISSE).
The non-profit organisation, recognised for its commitment to supporting communities through sport, will develop New Hall Hey into a community hub, offering programs and resources for Rossendale residents and surrounding areas.
With a long-term lease now signed, ISSE will roll out a range of diverse community programs, including youth sports, coaching, and events, all aimed at fostering community connection and participation. This revitalisation effort also paves the way for a substantial £50,000 investment from the English Cricket Board, directed toward enhancing the New Hall Hey cricket site to make it an inclusive, welcoming space for all.
The New Hall Hey site is a designated cricket facility, and its retention for cricket aligns with both the Council’s Playing Pitch Strategy and the English Cricket Board's requirement that the ground be used primarily, but not solely, for cricket
Rossendale Borough Council Leader, Alyson Barnes highlighted the value of this partnership in achieving the council’s goals: “We welcome the significant investment ISSE will bring with them to improve the site at New Hall Hey and their ambitions aligns perfectly with our vision of building healthier, prouder communities.
“This project will bring families, young people, and older residents together through sport, activities, and events, helping everyone get active, make connections, and enjoy their local space.”
As part of ISSE’s planned community engagement programme, they will also establish a series of initiatives that go beyond sport, including a community cafe, coffee mornings, and activities for all ages. They also plan family-friendly partnerships with local nurseries and hope to provide skills workshops and cultural celebrations. ISSE would like to see New Hall Hey as a thriving community centre where residents can connect, learn, and grow together and see the site as more than just a site for football.
Humayun Islam ISSE Founder and Director said: “We’re thrilled to be working with Rossendale Borough Council to breathe new life into New Hall Hey.
“Our goal is to create a space that resonates with every resident. From cricket programs supported by the Lancashire Cricket Foundation to workshops promoting health, skills, and cultural appreciation, we believe New Hall Hey can be a true community anchor, inspiring all to participate and thrive.”
Key Features of the New Hall Hey Project Include:
- Cricket Development Centre: Programs for skill-building and youth engagement through partnerships with the Lancashire Cricket Foundation, including All Stars and Dynamos.
- Community Hub: The site will support various local initiatives, such as the Holiday Activity Fund, Household Support Fund, and environmental programs, making it a vibrant resource for well-being and personal growth.
- Community and Cultural Programs: From inter-generational activities to environmental initiatives, the project aims to serve as a focal point for community connection, creativity, and sustainability.
- Food Projects: Implementing food projects, such as community gardens or cooking classes, will promote healthy eating habits and food sustainability while bringing residents together around a common interest.