The Big Lottery Fund has confirmed today the award of £500,000 to support the development of the new Neyland Community Hub at the Athletic Ground site in John Street, Neyland.

Cllr Paul Miller, who is leading the Community Hub project, said: "I’m absolutely delighted with today’s announcement.

"It’s been years of really hard work to get to this point but we are now within touching distance of delivering brand new, 21st Century community facilities for Neyland.

"The new Hub will build on the fantastic work which already takes place at the Athletic Club and will transform a 1950’s rugby and cricket club which has reached the end of its useful life into a vibrant and sustainable hub for community activity."

The Hub will be home to community based public sector staff, voluntary pensioners' luncheon clubs, the traditional sports clubs, University of the Third Age and Neyland Town Council.

Cllr Miller added: "This hub is designed to be truly intergeneration and all inclusive.

"It will be, without question, the biggest investment in community facilities in Neyland in a generation and will serve as the centre of our community for decades to come."

The £500,000 grant award takes secured funding to £1.3m, or nearly 75% of the total cost.

The project is anticipating news of final grant award decisions early in the new year.

The Big Lottery fund said the grant, over two years, will fund building and engineering works, plant and equipment, professional/legal fees and associated delivery costs.