Walsall Cricket Club – New 3-Bay Enclosed Practice Facility

The Challenge

Walsall Cricket Club faced the challenge of an outdated 2-lane net facility that was no longer meeting the needs of its players and coaches. The club sought a more durable and efficient training environment that could accommodate players at all levels and improve coaching precision. The existing facility's limitations were hindering the club's ability to provide top-quality training and development.

The Solution

Walsall Cricket Club decided to invest in a new non-turf 3-bay enclosed practice facility. After considering various options, the club selected our services for our reputation in cricket infrastructure and the advanced features of the proposed facility. The new practice facility features a design with a total footprint of 36.8m (L) x 11.08m (W), equipped with a Durant-CW tufted playing surface on an ECB-approved A-Base Pitch System. The facility also includes internal mesh batting screens, raised timber perimeter edging, and gravel trap borders for efficient drainage. This comprehensive solution addressed the club's need for durability, efficiency, and enhanced training capabilities.

The Results

Since the installation of the new 3-bay enclosed practice facility, Walsall Cricket Club has received fantastic feedback along with significant improvements in player aptitude, development and training efficiency. The facility's professional-grade performance and long-term durability have been instrumental in providing a top training environment. Enhanced features, such as tufted training lines for coaching precision and internal mesh batting screens for safe separation and effective ball containment, have further elevated the training experience. The new facility has successfully met the club's goals, positioning Walsall Cricket Club as a leader in club cricket infrastructure.

Funding That Makes the Difference

Behind every great project is great support, and Walsall’s transformation wouldn’t have been possible without the guidance and expertise of our funding associate, Richard Cox at Blind Summit Sports. Richard has worked along side us on countless jobs to help navigate the complex world of grant applications with clarity and confidence.

The process he and his applicants follow is both structured and supportive:

1. Free Initial Consultation
   It all begins with a no-obligation chat to assess the scope of your project and whether it’s viable for funding.

2. Upfront Planning Support
   If it’s a good fit, the club agrees to a modest upfront fee to kick off the groundwork - collecting necessary documents and shaping a compelling funding bid. This is done on a no-win, no-fee basis for the actual application.

3. Performance-Based Success Fee
   A fair and transparent success fee is only payable if funding is awarded - keeping everything results-driven and club-friendly.

4. Strong Application Development
   Richard and his team work closely with clubs to liaise with grant bodies, fine-tune the application, and offer honest, practical advice on the likelihood of success.

5. Joined-Up Project Planning
   Once the application is submitted, the club, funder, and us at DurantSports work together to align timeframes, plan the build, and ensure a smooth path from concept to completion.

6. Ongoing Grant Compliance & Support
   Even after funds are secured, clubs continue to receive guidance—ensuring the project remains compliant and funds are allocated exactly as required.

For Walsall C.C., this collaborative approach made all the difference, not just in securing additional funds, but in delivering a result that will serve the club for many seasons to come.