A new training facility based inside a historic football ground in Great Yarmouth is gearing up for its official opening in April.

Almost a million pounds worth of improvements will see a new FIFA-standard training facility inside the Wellesley Recreation Ground.

The ground's Grade II-listed tennis pavilion will also be renovated, bringing it back into use by providing a changing room and refreshment station for the new pitch.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: An artist impression of the renovated Grade II-listed tennis pavilion inside the Wellesley Recreation Ground in Great Yarmouth.An artist impression of the renovated Grade II-listed tennis pavilion inside the Wellesley Recreation Ground in Great Yarmouth. (Image: GYBC)

The new 3G pitch training facility is currently waiting to be certified as being up to FIFA standards and is expected to open in April.

A spokesperson for Great Yarmouth Borough Council said: "The new 3G pitch training facility will officially open in April when the comprehensive repair of the adjacent Grade II listed tennis pavillion will be completed as part of the wider programme to improve the Wellesley Recreation Ground.

"Once the planning condition has been discharged, it is expected that Great Yarmouth Football Club will test the new pitch before the official launch by using it for the training of local youth groups."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: The new 3G pitch inside the Wellesley Recreation Ground is opening in April.The new 3G pitch inside the Wellesley Recreation Ground is opening in April. (Image: GYBC)