news-engine

The future of the pavilion in Stainland recreation ground is being discussed by Calderdale Council’s Cabinet, with interest from Stainland Cricket Club to take on the facility as a Community Asset Transfer. The cricket and bowling pavilion is situated at the centre of Stainland Memorial Park, in the heart of the village, and is surrounded by its associated sports grounds and parkland. The building and associated grounds are owned by the Council and leased to the cricket club with a peppercorn rent. In addition to sport, the site supports wider community use. As a result of growth in demand for use of the pavilion, the club recently self-funded a significant renovation, which increased the capacity of the building and brought the cricket and bowling club together. To enable the club to further develop the building, with potential grant funding supporting wider improvements, the club would take responsibility for the pavilion for 125 years, by means of an asset transfer. As part of the application process, the club has stated its aims to expand cricket and bowling provision, develop partnerships with local schools and churches, offer professional development for volunteers, and increase the range of social and sporting activities. The initial business case has been reviewed, with Council officers recognising it has been well prepared, presented and is thorough. The club has also undertaken a wide range of engagement which has shown strong local support for their plans. The club’s vision for the pavilion and associated land aligns with the Council’s priorities and aspirations, and it’s recommended that the Council’s Cabinet approve the progression of the transfer, allowing work to take place with the club to move to the next stage in the process. Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, Assets and Resources, Cllr Mike Payne, said: “Our local sports and activity groups are at the heart of many Calderdale communities, as places to meet friends, stay active and support wider opportunities. We want to do all we can to enable them to develop and thrive and want to support ambitious plans for growth. “We’re pleased to consider the application from Stainland Cricket Club to take on the pavilion in Stainland. The club has successfully run the building through a lease arrangement for some time and is keen to take advantage of opportunities for grant funding applications to further improve and invest in the facility.” The future of the pavilion at Stainland Memorial Park will be discussed at the meeting of Calderdale Council’s Cabinet on Monday 14 September 2026, at Halifax Town Hall from 4pm. The meeting is also available to view online at https://calderdale.public-i.tv/core/portal/webcast_interactive/1121305(external link)