Caldicot Leisure Centre Development – Monlife

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Caldicot Leisure Centre – All-Weather Pitch Refurbishment

We’re excited to announce the upcoming refurbishment of the all-weather pitch at Caldicot Leisure Centre. This project will upgrade the existing 2G synthetic turf to a modern 3G turf system with alternative infill, ensuring a high-quality playing surface for our community.

This investment is part of Monmouthshire County Council’s commitment to improving local sport and play facilities, creating spaces that inspire participation and enjoyment for all.

Funding and Partnerships

The refurbishment is made possible through £456,000 in funding, secured in collaboration with key partners:

  • £206,000 from the Cymru Football Foundation Fit-For-Future Facilities Grant, supporting grassroots football projects across Wales.
  • £150,000 from the Sport Wales Capital Grant, which helps improve sports facilities, boost participation, and create sustainable, accessible environments.

Why This Matters

This project supports Monmouthshire’s Community and Corporate Plan and contributes to the Vision for Sport in Wales – An active nation where everyone can enjoy sport throughout their lives.

What’s Next?

Work is scheduled to begin on the 19th January. To keep you informed, we will be releasing regular project updates with key information and timelines here on this page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 3G pitch? 

A 3G pitch is a high-quality synthetic playing surface designed to replicate natural grass while offering all-weather performance. It combines artificial turf, sand, and performance infill for a safe and reliable playing experience year-round. 

Why are we developing a 3G pitch? 

The new facility will: 

  • Provide year-round training and match capacity 
  • Reduce cancellations due to poor weather 
  • Offer a safe, modern playing surface 
  • Support physical education and school sport 
  • Create a valuable community resource for all ages 

Who is funding the project? 

The development is jointly supported by: 

  • Cymru Football Foundation 
  • Sport Wales 
  • Education sector funding 

Together, these partners ensure the pitch meets national standards for quality, safety, access, and long-term sustainability. 

What criteria do we have to meet? 

To secure funding, the project must: 

  • Demonstrate clear community and school need 
  • Provide guaranteed community access outside school hours 
  • Follow approved 3G technical specifications (FAW/FIFA Quality) 
  • Include safeguarding, equality, and inclusion policies 
  • Meet environmental and sustainability standards 
  • Show a viable long-term maintenance and operational plan 
  • Support participation growth across all age groups and abilities 

To secure funding, the project must:

  • Demonstrate clear community and school need
  • Provide guaranteed community access outside school hours
  • Follow approved 3G technical specifications (FAW/FIFA Quality)
  • Include safeguarding, equality, and inclusion policies
  • Meet environmental and sustainability standards
  • Show a viable long-term maintenance and operational plan
  • Support participation growth across all age groups and abilities

Who will be able to use the new facility? 

  • School pupils (during curriculum hours) 
  • Local football clubs and teams 
  • Community sport groups 
  • Partner organisations 
  • General public via a booking system 

How will bookings work? 

A simple online booking system will be launched shortly before the pitch opens, with options for one-off, block, and community-rate bookings. 

Where will the pitch be located? 

The pitch will be developed at Caldicot Leisure Centre, with accessible parking and convenient access for school and community users. 

What is the project timeline? 

  • Construction start: January 19th 2026
  • Target opening: April 2026

Timeline updates will be provided as the project progresses. 

How will environmental impact be managed? 

As part of national funding criteria, the project includes: 

  • Sustainable drainage systems 
  • Environmentally responsible infill with microplastic mitigation 
  • LED floodlighting with minimal light spill 
  • Recycling or responsible disposal of old materials 
  • Long-term maintenance to preserve pitch quality and safety 

 

How will the pitch be maintained? 

A robust, funder-required maintenance schedule includes: 

  • Weekly brushing and inspections 
  • Regular infill maintenance 
  • Annual specialist servicing 
  • Monitoring for FAW/FIFA compliance 

The 3G will have the following dimensions:

  • 9m x 51.2m = 4,911m²
  • Touchline Recess – 104.9m x 3 = 314.7m²
  • Goal Line Recess – 51.1m x 3m = 153.3m²

How can the community stay informed? 

We will provide updates through: 

  • School and club websites 
  • Social media channels 
  • Community newsletters 
  • Information sessions and public consultation events 

How to Contact?

For questions or feedback, please email: sport@monmouthshire.gov.uk  

Sports Labs are delighted to act as the pitch consultants for the transformation and upgrade of this existing pitch at end of life into an exciting new facility, we are particularly proud of the decision to look at the use of natural alternative infills as a drive to improve the environmental impact of synthetic sports pitches by removing the risk of microplastic migration that conventional infills present. We look forwards to this important project being delivered and the positive impact that this has!