Strategic project work as part of the Bobby Moore Sports Hub at Parsloes Park has resulted in us being successfully shortlisted for the ‘Facility Development’ category of the 2024 County FA Recognition Awards.

The facility development in Dagenham, which is operated by the National Football Trust’s Charitable Operator, Leisure United, has been selected for its contributions towards enhancing the local grassroots football infrastructure. Our involvement in this successful project, from start to finish, has seen Essex rewarded with a nomination, and our Referees Department’s ‘Youth-to-Adult Transition Programme’ was also shortlisted.

The Bobby Moore Sports Hub features 16 grass and three 3G pitches, including FA National League System-level football provision. The project was strategically developed under the guidance and direction of the Essex County FA. Parsloes Park received the largest ever grant award from the Football Foundation, delivering a facility which will see thousands of individuals gain access to football pitches and gym facilities on a weekly basis.

The development of the Bobby Moore Sports Hub has significantly impacted grassroots football, promoting participation and addressing social inequalities. Local communities have benefitted from this greatly, with the hub enhancing football infrastructure and access, further solidifying its role in advancing grassroots football across the region.

The facility supports the growth and sustainability of football in Essex across the male, female and disability pathways, fostering a united grassroots environment that offers opportunities for all. The establishment of this venue has seen the Essex County FA host several workshops and practical sessions to develop the understanding and knowledge of coaches in the area.

Nick Emery, Head of Development & Investment at the Essex County FA, commented: “We’re delighted to have been shortlisted for this category. Initially, we were able to work strategically with Barking & Dagenham Council to enable a significant grant from the Football Foundation. We worked closely with the council throughout the project timeline and seconded an Essex County FA employee to undertake critical community engagement and feasibility work.”

“We congratulate all the partners on the ambition to deliver this high-quality hub and the opportunity it provides to the local community, continuing to enhance the rich football history and talent this local area has. We also warmly thank all the volunteers from the local grassroots community, whose commitment and dedication to providing local participation opportunities, through clubs and leagues, have made the vision of this hub a reality.”

Category winners will be announced at Wembley Stadium connected by EE on Thursday 7th November 2024, recognizing and endorsing the best projects, products and services delivered by County FAs over the past season whilst sharing best practice and learnings. The FA’s Head of Operations for Grassroots Football, Tim Foster added: “I’d like to congratulate the Essex County FA in making the final shortlist for the Facility Development and Referee Development categories.”

“We’ve had some outstanding submissions this year, once again highlighting the crucial role County FAs play in their local communities, ensuring accessible opportunities across all football formats and creating a fun and safe environment for all. We look forward to celebrating the achievements of our County FAs at Wembley Stadium in November and thanking everyone involved for their efforts across the season.”

Find out more about facility development projects and opportunities in grassroots Essex football in the menus above, by interacting with @EssexCountyFA on X and by searching for the ‘EssexFootball’ page on Facebook.