A market town could see work to develop a 3G pitch go ahead regardless of whether the government commit to funding it. 

Fakenham's £11m sports centre extension project was called into question when its funding decision was put in limbo after the Labour government brought its predecessor's pledge of £9.8m to the work under review.

Part of the project's plans included the development of a 3G football pitch at Trap Lane.

However in a bid to move the project on, Fakenham Town Council has agreed to lease the land to North Norfolk District Council.

It is with the hope that the town will still gain a new sporting facility regardless of whether the government commit money to the project.

Angela Glynn said that the cancellation of the project would be a cruel blow to the market town.Angela Glynn said the development of the pitch would be a huge investment to the town. (Image: Angela Glynn) Angela Glynn, the town's mayor, said: "The town council agreed unanimously to approve the decision to lease the land needed for this excellent facility to NNDC and I gather work will start as soon as the land is properly registered with the Land Registry and the lease agreed. 

"If the pool does not go ahead, it will still be a huge investment in the town's sports facilities."

Funding for the swimming pool is still on hold as the Labour Government review the spending.Funding for the swimming pool is still on hold as the Labour Government review the spending. (Image: Google Maps) Christopher Cushing, leader of the opposition for North Norfolk District Council, said he was "delighted there is a strong likelihood a full-sized 3G artificial pitch will be built at Trap Lane" and expressed his gratitude to the Football Foundation and the Football Association for working collaboratively with the district council.

He said: "Its availability would be a welcomed addition for the Fakenham Football Club, which supports hundreds of youngsters to play the game in the area, and indeed the nearby Fakenham Academy."

Cllr Christopher Cushing, North Norfolk District Councillor for Fakenham Lancaster North WardCllr Christopher Cushing, North Norfolk District Councillor for Fakenham Lancaster North Ward (Image: North Norfolk District Council) A spokesman from North Norfolk District Council said the authority "remains committed to delivering the Trap Lane pitch" and will explore options to fund the development should the government U-turn on its predecessor's funding commitment.   

He said: "Having identified a strategic need for a 3G facility in the town, the council has included the provision of a 3G pitch facility as part of the Levelling Up funding.

"At a suitable time, the council will work with local stakeholders and relevant partners to submit an application for a 3G pitch to the Football Foundation.

"In the meantime, the council awaits to hear the news from government regarding Levelling Up funding."