A football complex in Reigate, Surrey, has unveiled its new facilities to the public at a ceremony attended by England and Chelsea star Shaun Wright-Phillips.

The South Park Sports Association received £328,700 from the Football Foundation – for which Wright-Phillips is an ambassador – for the project, which includes a new pavilion and pitch-drainage work.

The work was done because the facility was hosting 24 competitive teams last year, compared to 10 in 2001, which meant the changing facilities were inadequate. The pitches could not cope with the demand and were in such a poor state that fixtures had to be cancelled.

“Providing young people with access to sports facilities is something I and Chelsea care a great deal about and that’s why I am delighted that the Football Foundation has been able to provide funding to The South Park Sports Association”, said Wright-Phillips.

“Football can provide a number of opportunities for kids to get off the street and get healthy, I’ve seen it through the work the club does and I know what a difference it can make.”

Nick Thatcher of the South Park Sport Association added: “We would like to thank the Football Foundation for their grant which has allowed us to build these new facilities which will benefit all of our teams and the local community.

“The Association would like to place on record their appreciation of the support received from Gatwick Airport Community Trust, Natwest, Reigate & Banstead Borough Council, Scottish & Newcastle, Sita Trust and Surrey County Football Association.”