NEW football pitches and a future changing facility could soon become a reality in Salisbury after city councillors backed plans linked to a major housing development.

Salisbury City Council has agreed in principle to take on two football pitches at St Peter’s Place, alongside almost £800,000 in funding to help maintain them and support the construction of a changing facility.

The decision was approved at a Full Council meeting on Tuesday (May 26) and forms part of a Section 106 agreement tied to the St Peter’s Place development involving Persimmon Homes, Wiltshire Council and private landowners.

Under the agreement, the city council would receive £799,297 to support the long-term upkeep of the pitches and help fund a new pavilion-style changing facility.

Council leaders say the proposed building would primarily support sport but could also become a wider community asset for local residents.

The facility would be designed to meet standards set by Sport England, the Football Association and building regulations, while allowing for wider recreational use where possible.

The move marks the latest step in the council taking responsibility for community facilities secured through the development. The authority has already agreed to adopt allotment sites and cemetery obligations linked to St Peter’s Place.

Cllr Sam Charleston, leader of Salisbury City Council, welcomed the decision.

He said: “We are delighted to take on this responsibility for these pitches, as well as starting the process for a changing area that can become a real community asset for residents.”

Council officers will now begin work on formal legal agreements with Wiltshire Council before plans for the changing facilities are developed further.