A major review of sporting facilities has been ordered across Dudley borough in a bid to improve pitches and changing rooms for teams.

The leader of Dudley Council, Councillor Patrick Harley, has ordered the review in a bid to see what can be done to boost facilities for teams. Sports bosses at the council are now compiling the review to establish costs and timescales for the potential work.

In his spare time, Councillor Harley, is chairman and sponsor of Green Man Inn FC who play in Kidderminster Premier League. He said it was vital the council did all it could to help sports teams flourish at a local level. Councillor Harley said:

"We have some award-winning parks which are home to dozens of young home grown sporting talent, and it is vital we look to build on that. I have personally ordered a review of what facilities we have, how we can improve them and the costs associated with that.

"Once we have that information back we can make an informed decision as a cabinet as to what needs to be done, how long it will take and importantly, that it is a sound financial investment in grass roots sport.

"I want to make sure that we invest in sports at a level where the future sporting stars start out, so that when they are winning trophies and medals in the future, they know it all started in a park in Dudley.”

Councillor Karen Shakespeare, cabinet member responsible for parks and open spaces, added:

"It is important that our sports teams have access to good facilities and this review will look at where there is a high demand and usage to ensure that our changing facilities are fit for both male and female players of all ages and abilities.

"As well as a programme of repairs and upgrades to changing rooms this review will also be looking at the energy efficiency of the buildings and improving some playing surfaces.”

Councillor Harley also sponsors Britannia and Brierley Hill Bullets who also both play in Kidderminster League. He has tasked officers with looking into potential funding sources to finance the work. The results of the review will then be considered as part of future budget planning proposals before any work is brought forward.