SPORTS pitches are back at Broadmeadow.

The former sports ground was built over an old rubbish tip, and had to be closed more than a decade ago when dangerous contamination began coming to the surface.

Now three new pitches – for rugby, football and training – are ready for use in one of the final stages of the regeneration of Broadmeadow, which began with the building of the Morrisons supermarket.

The opening will be celebrated this afternoon with games and other activities.

A Teignbridge Council spokesman said the development would provide a lasting legacy for sport and form part of the long-term vision to create a better work and leisure environment, attract more businesses and jobs, and regenerate Broadmeadow.

Planning contributions secured by Teignbridge from local development provided funds to invest in new goals, floodlights and improved changing facilities at Broadmeadow Sports Centre for the clubs using the sports pitches.

Teignmouth RFC and local football clubs will be the main users of the new grounds and have been involved in the project. All are said to be ‘delighted’ with the new facilities, which can also be booked by community clubs.

Cllr George Gribble, Teignbridge deputy leader and executive member for recreation and leisure, said: ‘We are really pleased to provide the new pitches and are absolutely delighted to see this special new facility open to the public.

‘This is yet another piece in the puzzle for this area of Teignmouth and is the culmination of many years’ work by Teignbridge.

‘Teignbridge officers and councillors have worked very hard since 2010 to make sure Broadmeadow provided a range of facilities that would be used and enjoyed by residents and visitors.

‘What we see now is an area that has been totally transformed economically with more jobs, improved leisure, retail, and transport links. The result is a very special new facility to be enjoyed by many.

‘This, together with the new theatre we are providing on the sea front and improvements to the back beach area, is continuing evidence of the confidence we have in our vision for Teignmouth and for the whole of Teignbridge’.

West ward councillor David Cox, was ‘very pleased this day has come, as Teignmouth has waited a long time for it.

‘I’m sure the town’s excellent sport clubs will welcome the return of playing fields to Broadmeadow.’

Teignmouth Rugby Club president, Geoff Webber added: ‘We are delighted to celebrate the opening of the new pitches at Broadmeadow.

‘With limited facilities for rugby in the town for many years since the original pitches closed to the public, this facility is very welcome and we’re all excited for the new season.

‘These new pitches will provide us with an opportunity to further develop rugby; recruiting and retaining more young players at a time where rugby is on a high with all the inspirational coverage of the Rugby World Cup.

‘We’d like to thank all the partners involved for making it happen.’