Orrell RU look for backing to buy Edge Hall Road

The site is owned by Wigan Warriors who used it as their training base until two years ago when they relocated to Robin Park.

With Edge Hall Road now vacant, Orrell RU officials with Brighter Better Orrell have been trying to secure it as a community facility - rather than risk seeing it sold off for housing, like their former training pitches.

They recently canvassed local people's opinion and say they have their backing.

But Orrell RU - who played at Edge Hall Road until 2007 - says their only option now is to buy the site.

A statement, shared on their Facebook page, reads: "Unfortunately, there are no short-term lease opportunities available to us to see if the facility would be viable – although the business plan for the Community Use of Edge Hall Road produced by Orrell & Winstanley Community Sport Club does indicate that it could be run as a viable operation, even with just a strong volunteer framework.

"So, we must look at the only other option – which is an outright purchase of the facility – and this is where we need your help!

"We have submitted the business plan to a couple of organisations that invest and develop community sporting hubs and we are also talking to Wigan Council as to whether they could support the initiative in any capacity."

They asked any investors or funding partners to get in touch by emailing [email protected], and are even considering crowdfunding to raise the money.

"This is an excellent opportunity for investors to be part of an incredible project that would see the facility used by the community for the benefit of grass roots sports and offering Orrell itself, and the surrounding areas a much-needed community meeting facility," the club added.

Former top-flight outfit Orrell have played at St John Rigby College, on Gathurst Road, in recent years as they looked for a permanent home.