3rd June 2025
| Mark Frost
Cricket in West Wales has taken a significant step forward with the unveiling of a new, inclusive multi-sport facility at Llechryd – the result of a major collaborative project involving Cricket Wales, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), and the Cymru Football Foundation (CFF).
The redevelopment, supported by over £207,000 of combined investment, has transformed Llechryd’s sports offering, with Cricket Wales playing a key role in guiding the project from concept to completion. The new facility includes a fully upgraded cricket outfield with improved drainage, as well as new accessible toilets and baby changing facilities, helping to ensure cricket is truly a Sport For All.
At the heart of the project has been a shared ambition, to grow cricket opportunities in rural Wales for all age groups and abilities. Llechryd Cricket Club, which has seen rapid post-pandemic growth – particularly in junior cricket and among women and girls – now benefits from a fit-for-purpose facility that supports long-term sustainability and inclusive participation.
The club is also one of just five Disability Champion Clubs in Wales, proudly offering tailored cricket sessions for players with disabilities. The new accessible facilities, made possible through targeted funding from Cricket Wales and the ECB, remove barriers to participation and reinforce the club’s commitment to being a welcoming hub for all.
Cricket Wales provided hands-on support and expert guidance throughout the process. Assisting with funding applications and ensuring facilities meet the highest standards for inclusive, multi-sport use. Cricket Wales input helped shape the development into a true community asset.
Victoria Jones, Facilities Investment Manager at Cricket Wales, said:
“The improvements at Llechryd have been instrumental in supporting the growth of both cricket and football in the community. We’ve seen a real boost in the participation of women and girls, which remains a key focus. Importantly, the new accessible facilities ensure that Llechryd Cricket Club continues to lead the way in offering cricket for everyone – including those with disabilities.”
Llechred Cricket Club Chair John Curran has been instrumental in ensuring the project was successful and believes the club facilities will benefit the whole community: "Having this grant has had a massive impact on the club. A big thanks to Cricket Wales for their ongoing support and guidance throughout. We will push on now as a club with these fantastic facilities for the whole community."
The facility is part of the wider Cymru Football Foundation’s Fit-For-Future Facilities Programme, backed by the UK Government and designed to support multi-sport developments across Wales. Cricket Wales’ collaboration with CFF in Llechryd showcases the potential of partnership to deliver impact across sporting codes.
Aled Lewis, Director of the Cymru Football Foundation, added:
“Through the power of collaboration, we’re making huge strides in improving facilities in Wales. Cricket Wales’ involvement has helped shape a space that serves not just football, but the whole sporting community – particularly in rural areas like Llechryd.”
With over 300 playing members and 150 social members, and an exciting pipeline of junior cricketers, Llechryd is now positioned to be a model for rural club development in Wales. As Cricket Wales continues its mission to grow the game across communities, Llechryd’s story serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved through collaboration, inclusivity, and targeted investment.
For more information on accessible cricket facility funding or to explore how your club can become a Disability Champion Club, visit Cricket Wales Facilities & Funding.