Pavilion2022 gets formal go-ahead

Fernhurst Recreation Ground Trust has today given its formal approval to the long-awaited Pavilion2022 project. The latest institutional pledge has taken it over the original budget of £700,000 which means the major part of the build is assured. However, due to rocketing costs in the construction industry, the fundraising must continue to ensure FRGT can provide the quality of facility the community deserves.

The England Cricket Board is the latest major institution to get behind Fernhurst’s cHeading 2ampaign for a desperately-needed new pavilion. The ECB has guaranteed £150,000 for the project. Other major grants this year have been made by Sport England and South Downs National Park Authority.

John Mitchell OBE of Fernhurst Recreation Ground Trust said “The grant from the ECB is great news and ensures we can finally get going. However, inflation in the building trade means we need a final push on fundraising.

Local people have been generous but I appeal to those who haven’t yet donated. The Trust is also asking the cricket and tennis clubs to guarantee £25,000 each over the next five years.”

The various lockdowns of 2020 and early this year thwarted fundraising events but, behind the scenes, many applications were made to various charitable trusts. Planning permission had been granted in 2019 for a much improved pavilion to cater for the large increase in membership of the various sports clubs.  Cricket, football and tennis have all thrived in recent years, and a new, independent on-site caterer, Green Café, has proved very popular in 2021.

Donations are still very much welcome: search ‘Fernhurst’ on GoFundMe.com

https://uk.gofundme.com/f/fernhurst-pavilion-2022