Gerrard unveils plans for new sports facilities

Former Premier League footballer Steven Gerrard has unveiled a multi-million-pound investment in a padel academy and new 3G football pitches.

The ex-England midfielder said the sports and educational hubs would be built in Liverpool and Knowsley.

The former Liverpool captain, who grew up on the Bluebell estate in Huyton, said: "I've always wanted to give something back to the city where I was born and the place I am proud to call home."

Six new 3G football pitches and up to 16 padel courts will be built across the two sites - including Childwall Sports and Science Academy.

Gerrard is working in partnership with Knowsley Council to transform King George V Playing Fields in Huyton with three new 3G football pitches and a padel centre of excellence.

Gerrard said: "I'm investing in these projects because I believe in the difference they can make for young people."

He described the plans as "incredibly exciting" and added that it was "fantastic to announce the plan for Huyton because this is not too far away from where I grew up".

The ex-LA Galaxy footballer added: "Sport has the power to change lives."

Knowsley MP Anneliese Midgley said it was an "exciting proposal".

She added: "As someone who grew up in Knowsley, I know how important it is that young people here have access to the very best on their doorstep and people round here deserve it."

The plans, subject to planning and the necessary approvals, are being brought forward with Childwall Sports and Science Academy, Lydiate Learning Trust and Knowsley Council.

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