Annan RFC to receive £250,000 boost from Growth & Participation Fund

Annan RFC have been awarded funding through Scottish Rugby’s Growth & Participation Fund which will support them in redeveloping their clubhouse facilities and building a double story extension.

The new space is estimated to cost around £1.4 million and will include additional changing rooms, an office space, a fully equipped kitchen, and multi-purpose spaces for community groups and club functions.

The Dumfriesshire-based club has been an integral part of the town since the late 1960s and now boasts a strong youth, women’s and men’s section and offers walking rugby. However, with the expansion of their women and girls programme in the recent years, the need for additional changing facilities and a social space has risen.

The biggest contributor for their growth in the game has been appointment of a youth development officer eight years ago. The reliable and positive work of Nicole Jancey has been a conduit for successful relationships with 13 primary schools and Annan Academy. Through the extension and refurbishment, the club is hopeful the women’s programme will expand even further, as well as meet the demand of their ever-growing boy’s section.

To cover the remaining costs of the upgrades, the club will be looking to sell their clubhouse in town and have applied for sportscotland backing in addition to applying for funding from charitable organisations within the local community.

The club are hoping to break ground in early 2027 and will enhance their facilities by creating a space for members to gather outside of rugby.

Scottish Rugby’s Growth & Participation Fund allows clubs to build on existing activities that make a big difference to rugby in the local community, reaffirming the commitment to supporting clubs and aiding in the development and transformation of facilities.

President and Chairman of Annan RFC, Neil Moffat, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be receiving this funding from Scottish Rugby. It’s a massive step forward for Annan Rugby Club and will make a real difference to what we can offer both on and off the pitch. The new facilities will give us the space to grow, improve the experience for our players and volunteers, and facilitate further engagement with the local community. It’s a really exciting time for everyone in the town and those involved with the club.

“We believe this facility would be the missing link to the engagement of players, parents, supports and sponsors which will ensure a sustainable future for Annan Rugby.”

Scottish Rugby’s Director of Rugby Development, Gavin Scott, added: “The Growth & Participation: Club Sustainability Fund was established to help community-centred clubs like Annan RFC continue to grow, thrive and make long lasting impact in their communities. We look forward to seeing their vision come to life through the support of the fund.”