* Manchester City Council, alongside Fletcher Moss Rangers Football Club and the Football Foundation, is proud to announce the official opening of the newly refurbished Merseybank Clubhouse.

The project fulfils Fletcher Moss Rangers' long-standing ambition to transform the much-loved 1950s building into a modern, accessible and energy-efficient facility that will serve the community for generations. Their 2023 business case set out a clear vision to upgrade the building, secure its future, and provide flexible space for both football and wider community use.

Modern Facilities for a Modern Community

The original 1950s pavilion contained a single changing area, a small kitchen, office, toilets (including disabled provision), and sat alongside playing fields with senior and junior football pitches, tennis courts, a multi-use games area, and a small car park.

The refurbishment has delivered major improvements, including:

* New flexible community space

* Dedicated female, male, and accessible toilets

* New kitchen and cafe serving hatch

* Triple-glazed windows and improved thermal performance

* LED lighting and upgraded electrical systems

* Energy-efficient hot water and heat-recovery ventilation

* Enhanced security measures

* A new roof with modern insulation

An additional review of parking and external improvements will also be explored in a future Phase 2.

These upgrades will help boost participation, particularly for women and girls, remove long-standing barriers to involvement in sport, and create a welcoming hub for social activity, combating isolation and strengthening neighbourhood ties. The redesign also supports Manchester's commitment to a low-carbon future, with sustainable technologies embedded throughout.

A Shared Community Achievement

The delivery of the project has been made possible through partnership investment from Manchester City Council, the Football Foundation, and Fletcher Moss Rangers Football Club, reflecting the power of organisations, volunteers, and residents working together with shared purpose.

Daniel Francis, Chairman, Fletcher Moss Rangers FC, said:

"The refurbishment has been long overdue, and I am delighted that we have now successfully brought it to completion, delivering a building the club can truly be proud of. While the previous layout served its purpose at the time, it was no longer fit for the needs of the club today. This marks an exciting new chapter in the club's history. As we approach our 40th anniversary, this development represents a significant milestone and something everyone connected with the club can take pride in. Combined with the ongoing improvements to our pitches, it feels as though everything is coming together.

"I look forward to seeing the facility used and enjoyed by both our members and the wider local community."

Cllr John Hacking, Executive Member for Skills, Employment and Leisure, Manchester City Council, said:

"The transformation of the Merseybank Clubhouse shows exactly what can be achieved when we invest in grassroots sport and work closely with our local clubs and communities. This modernised facility not only supports player development and participation, especially for women and girls, but also provides a versatile social space that the whole community can enjoy. It reflects our commitment to improving leisure opportunities across Manchester and ensuring that local people have access to high-quality, accessible facilities."

Cllr Lee-Ann Igbon, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbourhoods, Manchester City Council, said:

"This new clubhouse is about far more than bricks and mortar, it's about strengthening community connections, tackling social isolation, and giving residents a place they can be truly proud of. The upgrades support our wider goals of creating vibrant, inclusive neighbourhoods where people feel connected and supported. I'm delighted to see this facility reopened and look forward to the positive impact it will continue to have for years to come."

Robert Sullivan, Chief Executive of the Football Foundation, said:

"We're delighted that refurbishment works have been completed on Merseybank Playing Fields Pavilion in Didsbury West, Manchester and we're excited to see the new facilities in action."