A PUBLIC consultation will be held next week on eight new sports pitches for York.

The new pitches are planned on fields near Askham Bar, close to the Ashfield Estate, and will include 11-a-side, nine-a-side and seven-a-side pitches and facilities.

The council is also working with Bishopthorpe White Rose FC on plans to help it grow and access grant funding. Cash will also coming from the Football Foundation, local sponsorship and grants and City of York Council’s capital programme.

Cllr Ann Reid, interim executive member for leisure, culture and tourism, said: “The playing fields at the Ashfield estate will allow residents to have access to great facilities to improve their health and wellbeing and we are really happy to be supporting Bishopthorpe White Rose Football Club who are growing significantly.”

Josh Wong, club secretary of Bishopthorpe White Rose JFC, said: “The club has grown significantly and we struggle to accommodate training and matches for the 400 boys and girls who enjoy football with us.

“The new development will provide a home for our club, an indoor space for the community and enable all our players and other clubs in York and beyond to enjoy football on good quality pitches.”

The drop-in takes place between 4pm and 7pm at Askham Bar Park & Ride on Wednesday, January 24.

Anyone unable to attend can email their views to AskhamBarEngagement@york.gov.uk.