Nottingham’s Forest Sports Zone to undergo £1.9m facility transformation
Nottingham’s Forest Sports Zone is scheduled for a major redevelopment following the announcement of a £1.9 million investment package. The project, centered at the Forest Recreation Ground, aims to modernize the site’s playing surfaces and infrastructure to accommodate its high volume of community use. The facility currently serves an average of 2,000 users per week and is recognized as one of the most active grassroots sports hubs in the United Kingdom.
Upgraded 3G pitches and LED lighting systems
A primary focus of the investment involves the complete overhaul of the existing playing surfaces. The current 3G pitch will be stripped and replaced with a new high-specification surface, accompanied by an upgraded infill system. To extend the facility’s usable hours and improve energy efficiency, the project includes the installation of improved LED lighting.
In a significant upgrade for local football clubs and schools, the adjacent sand-based pitch will be entirely rebuilt. This area is being converted into a full 3G surface, creating a more consistent training and match environment that remains playable throughout the winter months. These technical improvements are designed to ensure the Forest Sports Zone meets modern safety and performance standards for competitive grassroots play.
New community hub and changing room expansion
Beyond the playing fields, the redevelopment includes a substantial extension to the existing changing room building. Plans detail a new two-storey entrance and expanded office space to better serve the staff and organizations operating on-site.
A dedicated community area will be integrated into the building, intended to act as a functional hub for local groups and visitors. This expansion aims to improve the spectator experience and provide a more welcoming environment for the various health, wellbeing, and education-based programs hosted at the site. The Forest Sports Zone has been managed by the Nottingham Forest Community Trust since it opened in 2015, serving as a central point for the club’s charitable initiatives.
Funding partnership and historical significance
The £1.9 million redevelopment is funded through a multi-agency partnership. The Football Foundation has contributed £1 million to the project, with the Nottingham Forest Community Trust providing £625,000. The remaining balance is being covered by Nottingham City Council.
Calum Osborne, Chief Executive of Nottingham Forest Community Trust, noted that the site holds a specific connection to the heritage of Nottingham Forest Football Club, as it served as the club’s original home. The investment is intended to maintain a strong professional football presence in the city center while delivering practical benefits to the local population. The Trust uses the power of sport to engage residents across Nottinghamshire, focusing on inclusion and employability.
Construction timeline and temporary site closure
To allow the heavy engineering and resurfacing works to take place safely, the Forest Sports Zone will close to the public for approximately five weeks starting from 18 May 2026.
| Project Phase | Expected Timeline |
|---|---|
| Full Facility Closure | 18 May 2026 |
| Partial Reopening | Summer 2026 |
| Full Project Completion | Autumn 2026 |
| Total Funding | £1.9 Million |
Following the initial five-week closure, a partial reopening is planned for the summer of 2026, allowing some activities to resume while final touches are completed. The full facility, including the new community hub and both 3G pitches, is expected to be fully operational by autumn 2026. Cllr Sam Lux, Nottingham City Council’s Executive Member for Climate, Energy and Nature, stated that the improvements will provide high-quality facilities that local players, clubs, and schools can utilize for years to come.
Source: Nottingham City Council
