WORK is currently under way to transform derelict land in Fordingbridge into a recreational area with a new sports pitch.

Last month, New Forest District Council gave planning permission to develop the land, which is situated south of the existing recreational ground, between the River Avon and the A338.

The application was to turn part of the site into a new playing area for Fordingbridge Sports Club , which will benefit the town’s football and Rugby club plus other community groups, expanding the recreational area by 3.7 acres.

Work began last week and it is now a race against time to get the area planted with seeds by the middle of the month so the pitch can be used for next year’s season, which starts in September.

Sports and rugby club spokesman Rob Burrows said: “If you were to see it before and see it now, you would be quite amazed at the amount of work they have been able to do in only a few days.

“I saw it for myself at the end of last week and you could certainly see the area has been transformed.”

The club has been waiting for 15 years for the opportunity to expand, with plans for the site being discussed for more than a year.

Rugby club president John Mouland said: “Any increase in our playing facilities will be very welcome, enabling us to provide a second rugby pitch for around the 200 minis and juniors from ages six to 16, who gather at the rugby club every Sunday. Indeed this season we are facing the prospect of four teams from the under 13s to under 16s having to play four matches on our one and only pitch on a Sunday morning.

“Any proposal that will alleviate this situation will be more than welcome.”