Cumnock RFC celebrate new 3G pitches

12 Mar 2019

A rugby festival featuring four teams from the Cumnock area was held on Tuesday 5 March to celebrate the opening of two new 3G Scottish Rugby approved pitches as part of a multi-million-pound project in the area.

The facility will benefit Cumnock Academy and Auchinleck Academy (both CashBack Schools of Rugby) who will be based at the state-of-the-art secondary school facility renamed ‘Robert Burns Academy’.

Harry Riley, Cumnock Rugby Development Officer said, “The club are delighted with the new playing surfaces and we are looking forward to the installation of two full sizes grass pitches on the current Cumnock Academy site.

“The new Robert Burns Academy will be on the doorstep of Cumnock Rugby Club and with the surrounding facilities and the support of our community, rugby will be able to thrive in Cumnock.”

The wet weather didn’t prevent Cumnock Academy, Auchinleck Academy, Grange Academy and Loudoun Academy – all four schools situated in the East Ayrshire Council region – showcasing their skills in front of councillors and funders of the project on the day.

Morrison Construction, the Barony Campus contractor, is currently under-taking the £68 million revamp, with the rest of the facility set to fully open in August 2020, where the grass pitches will be installed.

The campus will comprise of a primary school, nursery, additional supports needs school and a University West of Scotland campus, so a variety of educational needs can be accommodated for the area.

It will be the largest campus of its kind in Scotland and will be used as a shining example for future campus’ and school developments nationally.

Jennifer Griffin, Scottish Rugby Regional Director for Glasgow South who was there at the day, “We will look to support Cumnock RFC, East Ayrshire Council, Auchinleck Academy and Cumnock Academy in the build-up to Robert Burns Academy opening next summer, this is an exciting time for the Cumnock area.

“Everyone involved is committed to changing lives through the positive experiences provided by rugby.”

If you would like to get involved at your local rugby club we have a number of great opportunities to play, coach, referee or volunteer. To support the community or for more information about the Glasgow South Region please contact Jennifer Griffin – [email protected] or find your local club via our Club Finder HERE