Ynyshir Albions have announced a major step forward in plans to transform their ground into a modern community hub after receiving in-principle approval for a significant grant from the Welsh Government.
The football club, based at Ynyshir Oval in Rhondda Cynon Taf, said the funding approval was a major milestone in its ambition to create a welcoming, accessible space for players, supporters and the wider community.
The proposed development would see a new 100-square-metre open-plan community space created, spanning the length and width of the existing building. Plans also include a balcony overlooking the pitch, additional seating and improvements to accessibility.
The club has already raised £20,467 through its Crowdfunder campaign, reaching 68% of its £30,000 target, with the fundraising appeal remaining open until the end of 2026.
Welsh Government grant marks major milestone for Ynyshir Albions
Announcing the news, Ynyshir Albions Community Club Ltd confirmed it had received in-principle approval for a significant grant through the Welsh Government’s Community Facilities Programme.
The club has also secured support from Sport Wales and received contributions through its Crowdfunder campaign. Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has additionally provided support towards pre-contract building costs.
According to the club, these commitments represent approximately half of the total funding required to deliver the project.
However, further financial support is still needed, with the remaining funding the subject of an application to the Cymru Football Foundation. A decision on that application is awaited, and the club has stressed that the development cannot proceed without securing the outstanding money.
In its statement, the club said: “This is a major milestone in our ambition to deliver a modern, accessible facility for our football club and the wider community.”
What the proposed community hub will include
The plans would significantly expand the facilities available at Ynyshir Oval, creating a dedicated space for community activities alongside the club’s football operations.
At the heart of the development will be a 100-square-metre open-plan area, designed to accommodate a range of local events, gatherings and club activities.
The proposed facilities include:
- A community kitchen and social area providing a welcoming environment for gatherings and local activities.
- Electricity and heating to make the space comfortable and usable throughout the year.
- Fully accessible facilities so people of all abilities can enjoy the building.
- A balcony area overlooking the football pitch.
- Additional seating, with the perimeter fence moved back to create space for an emergency staircase and improved viewing areas.
Accessibility has been a key consideration throughout the project. The proposed extension will allow for the installation of a disabled lift, providing access to the upstairs area, alongside an external staircase.
The club hopes the improvements will create a facility that can be enjoyed by people beyond the football team, providing a valuable community space for the surrounding area.
Ynyshir Albions continue remarkable rise up Welsh football pyramid
Ynyshir Albions have also enjoyed an impressive rise through the Welsh football pyramid in recent years. The club currently competes in the Cymru South, the second tier of Welsh football, and sits fifth in the table their highest-ever position in the Welsh pyramid.
Their progress was underlined by a 4-2 victory over former league leaders Pure Swansea, inflicting the side’s first defeat of the campaign.
Just a decade ago, Ynyshir were playing in the South Wales Alliance League Division One, the fifth tier of Welsh football. They first earned promotion to the Cymru South in 2022, but were relegated in their debut season before securing an immediate return through promotion in 2024/25.
Having avoided relegation last season, they have continued to make significant strides and are now enjoying their strongest campaign at this level. The club has also played a part in developing talent, having provided Liam Eason with a major opportunity before he went on to excel at Llanelli Town and, more recently, Cambrian United.
Crowdfunder reaches 68% of £30,000 target as club appeals for support
Alongside the funding commitments already secured, Ynyshir Albions are continuing to appeal to supporters and local residents to help bring the project to fruition.
The club has raised £20,467 through its Crowdfunder, leaving £9,533 to reach its £30,000 fundraising target.
The campaign will remain open until December 31, 2026, with supporters also able to contribute through the club’s Buy a Brick scheme.
The club said the timing of the outstanding Cymru Football Foundation decision would influence when construction could begin, as well as how football activities would be managed during the building works.
In its update, Ynyshir Albions said: “There’s still a significant hurdle ahead, but we’re making encouraging progress towards bringing this project to life.”
The club also thanked everyone who had contributed so far, adding that continued support would be vital to making the community hub a reality.
People wishing to contribute to the project can do so through the club’s Crowdfunder campaign.
