The Cotswold School Astro pitch was built in 2005, with an expected life of 10 to 12 years. Through annual maintenance and a deep clean and refurb 5 years ago, we have managed to extend the life of the pitch. However, after 18 years of daily use, the Astro carpet has literally worn down and will be unplayable within 2 years. We have started our fundraising campaign with the target of replacing the astro carpet in the summer of 2024. The Astro pitch is a vital asset for the community; supporting hockey and football clubs for all ages, smaller community and holiday clubs as well as the PE curriculum for 1500 pupils. A replacement astro turf will cost between £200,000 and £250,000 depending on the condition of the shock pad underneath the carpet. All funds raised will go towards the cost of replacing the Astro carpet and will give the community, clubs and school another 20 years of use of a vital community asset.

What we'll deliver:

• A new astro turf carpet providing another 20 years of use in the community

Why it's a great idea:

The Astro turf is vital in supporting and maintaining grass roots hockey (Bourton and Sherborne Hockey Club) and football (Bourton Rovers and Northleach FC) in the District. The Cotswold Playing Pitch Strategy 2017 noted that the loss of the Cotswold School Astro would have a significant impact on both sports in the District. The replacement astro turf would secure another 20 year of life for our local clubs, as well as continuing to support other smaller community clubs and holiday clubs. It will support another 20 years of Physical Education at the school, supporting the 1,500 pupils that attend The Cotswold School.

Steps to get it done:

• Going out to Tender
• Choosing a supplier
• Installing the new astro turf
• Opening the new astro turf!

The school is actively fundraising and has raised £8k the first few fundraising events. We also have significant match fund pledges. Our aim is to raise £100k which will then be matched funded by our generous benefactors.