Professional Pitch Completed at Lancashire Cricket Club’s New Farington Facility

Lancashire County Cricket Club has reached a key construction milestone for its new secondary facility with the finalization of a professional playing pitch. Planning for the Farington facility, situated close to Leyland, commenced following its approval in March 2023. This development addresses a “pressing need” for an additional venue, necessitated by the volume of matches held at Old Trafford. The completed section of the development now features a contemporary playing surface, which includes a natural turf area. The inaugural match is anticipated to take place at the ground at the commencement of the 2026 cricket season, with capacity for up to 5,000 spectators. Construction on the project began in November 2023, under the direction of Eric Wright Construction, a firm headquartered in Bamber Bridge. Upon its full completion, the new development is slated to offer two pitches—one professional and one designated for community use—along with a dedicated training area. The initial pitch to be finished has been transferred to the council and the club for ongoing development and upkeep. Matt Merchant, the head groundsman at Lancashire Cricket, described the occasion as a “really exciting day for the club”. He further stated: “Specialist work will now begin to take place by our grounds team in order to ensure the pitch is bedded in and prepared ahead of cricket taking place at Farington during the 2026 season.” Additionally, the facility is intended to function as a North West Centre of Excellence for women’s cricket. Lancashire cricketers Tom Bailey and Alice Clarke, accompanied by Mr Merchant and former Lancashire and England bowler Paul Allott, toured the newly completed pitch. Phillippa Williamson, leader of Lancashire County Council, commented: “This pioneering facility is one of a kind in the UK, and we’re incredibly proud and excited to be delivering this in Lancashire.”