Council Approves AFC Knowsley Ground Upgrades
Knowsley Council has approved plans to revamp AFC Knowsley’s football ground at the Lord Derby Playing Fields in Huyton. The proposals include a new 50-seat covered spectator stand, a 50-person standing shelter, six 15-metre-high LED floodlights, a ticket booth, two eight-person team dugouts, and new perimeter fencing.
Local MP Anneliese Midgley said the club is now “firmly on the semi-professional football map” after the first team secured a place in the North West Counties Football League for the 2026/27 season.
Club Background and Growth
AFC Knowsley was formed in 1987 as Knowsley South and achieved community-chartered club status with the FA in 2001. In 2019, the club underwent a £1.4m redevelopment that included a new pavilion with changing rooms, a café, and a function room, prompting a rebrand to AFC Knowsley.
The club now has 29 teams—including men’s, juniors, girls’, academy, and disability groups—with over 600 players.
Floodlight Details and Usage
The six LED floodlights are designed to minimise light pollution and will only be used during winter months: between 6pm and 10:30pm on weekdays and 3pm to 6pm on weekends.
Reasons for Development
The club stated the development is necessary to meet Football Association and North West Counties Football League ground grading requirements, enabling progression to Step 6 football. The upgrades aim to improve spectator comfort, enhance accessibility, retain local sporting talent, and boost the club’s long-term sustainability.
Public Consultation and Objections
The application was publicised via letters to 27 neighbouring properties. Two objections were received, citing concerns over floodlight impact, noise, lack of parking, and road congestion. However, 17 letters of support praised the development for helping young people continue football careers and benefiting the wider community.
Approval Conditions
Knowsley Council approved the changes subject to several conditions, including a requirement to provide a biodiversity gain plan.
