Published Date: Aug 14th, 2025
Fife Council has approved funding of up to £177,769 to support the replacement of the synthetic turf pitch and upgrade floodlighting at Kelty Community Centre, unlocking a matching grant from the Scottish Football Facilities Fund (SFFF) awarded to Kelty Hearts Football Club.
The investment, agreed at today’s Cabinet Committee, will help to deliver a modern, safe and inclusive facility that benefits not only the football club but the wider Kelty community. The upgraded pitch will meet the standards required for professional football and provide enhanced access to sport and physical activity for local schools, clubs, and residents.
The project will include the removal, recycling and replacement of the current 3G synthetic turf and the installation of upgraded floodlighting, ensuring the facility remains a vibrant hub for sport and recreation in Kelty for years to come.
Councillor Linda Erskine, Spokesperson for Communities, said: “This project is a fantastic example of how strategic investment in local facilities can deliver lasting benefits for the whole community. It supports our goals of improving health and wellbeing, promoting inclusion, and creating opportunities for young people to thrive through sport.”
The funding will help Kelty Hearts FC access their approved SFFF grant, which depends on making sure the local community, especially under-represented groups, can use and benefit from the facilities. A new access agreement will be put in place to make sure the community has fair access to use the space.
Cllr Erskine added: “This improvement will support youth development by using structured sport to help reduce anti-social behaviour. It also enhances the facilities available to our local schools and grassroots clubs, and we’ll ensure that it is managed with inclusive programming in mind.”
Kelty Hearts FC has grown significantly in recent years. The pitch upgrade ensures continued compliance with SPFL standards while maintaining the club’s commitment to community engagement.
