Work has begun on a major redevelopment at Stourbridge Rugby Club to create an artificial pitch.

The new surface, which will replace the main first team pitch at Stourton Park, is designed to provide an all weather facility for a variety of sports. The new surface is similar to the pitch used by Premiership team Worcester Warriors at their Sixways stadium.

Stourbridge chairman, Robin Edwards, said: "At Stourbridge Rugby Club we are delighted to be working with the RFU and to have been selected to host their artificial grass pitch.

"We believe it will prove to be an excellent facility, which will enhance the local playing experience and provide a reliable surface that should encourage open running rugby.

"The opportunity to use a pitch frequently without the usual concerns about extensive maintenance is a novelty we are keen to experience.

"We hope to attract players of all ages and abilities from across the community to enjoy playing rugby on this new surface.”

The cost of the pitch and associatied upgrades including new floodlights at Stourton Park has been estimated at around £750,000.

Construction of the pitch is being funded by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and hire of the surface is expected to be a major cash boost for the Bridgnorth Road club.

The RFU will manage the pitch, renting space for matches and training to sports clubs from across the region, while the Stourbridge Club will benefit from extra visitors using club facilities.

Steve Grainger, RFU Rugby development director, said: “We hope the local community will embrace the new AGP and take advantage of the additional opportunities it provides people to play year-round rugby.

“Since launching our first sites in January we have seen local clubs, schools and teams from across the local areas all embracing the opportunity to play on the world-class facilities without weather, darkness or lack of pitch access limiting their ability to enjoy this great game.”

The pitch is part of the RFU’s Rugby World Cup 2015 legacy of delivering over £50m investment over four year into the development of 100 AGPs across England.

Stourbridge RFC hope to have the new pitch operational in time for the start of the new rugby season, a website to book the surface will be live in mid-August.