SPORTS teams could be enjoying a new pitch in Haddington in time for the new season.

The brand new sports pitch and high-spec changing pavilion in Haddington’s Letham Mains have been completed and transferred to council ownership.

The facilities will be made available to youngsters at nearby Letham Primary School, as well as youth teams and the general public.

The pitch, operated by Enjoy Leisure on behalf of East Lothian Council, can be adapted to be used for a range of different sports, including football, rugby and hockey, and is anticipated to be available for full use from the 2025/26 season to allow the grass to take root.

Councillor Colin McGinn, the council's cabinet spokesperson for community wellbeing and sport, countryside and leisure, said: “It’s vitally important that new developments bring a broader benefit to our region, whether through investing in infrastructure or projects like this at Letham Mains.

“As a result of the creation of this fantastic facility, residents can now benefit and I hope that it encourages more young people to keep an active and healthy lifestyle.”

CALA Homes commissioned the work, as well as constructing the changing pavilion, which features a PV solar panel array to boost sustainability credentials and lower running costs.

READ MORE: More than 20,000 trees planted at new Haddington housing development

Derek Lawson, strategic land director with CALA Homes (East), was pleased with the progress.

He said: “The overarching vision at Letham Mains was to create a vibrant and healthy community and expansion to the town.

“This sports facility is emblematic of this – and is a timely boost for the young people who will be able to train and bond through using it.

“We hope it is embraced by the school and youth teams, and serves the community for generations to come.”

Bill Axon, chief executive of Enjoy Leisure, was looking forward to welcoming various clubs and teams.

READ MORE: Retail space ‘uncertainty’ forces change of plans at Letham Mains

He said: “As East Lothian’s health and wellbeing charity, we’re committed to increasing activity participation levels across all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

“With the introduction of this new pitch and pavilion, we’re hopeful that we’ll be a step closer to meeting our mission of creating happier, healthier communities.

“We look forward to working in partnership with East Lothian Council to manage this new facility.”

The completion of works at the sports facility marks the latest milestone at Letham Mains, which features more than 800 homes through various developers and housing associations.

It also includes a new linear park, civic square and the primary school, which is home to more than 230 pupils.

More than 20,000 native species of trees and hedges have been planted across the site, including birch, oak, hawthorn and willow trees, while a series of footpaths including pedestrian bridges have been completed.

Theresa Laing, chairwoman of Haddington and District Community Council, also welcomed the latest facility.

She said: “Anything that is improving the health and wellbeing of everyone is a good thing.”