Local clubs currently receive some of the most favourable concessions in Scotland, typically paying just 25% of the adult rates to use pitches and other facilities run on behalf of South Lanarkshire Council by South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC).

Due to funding pressures, during discussions for the council’s 2023/24 budget it was agreed that the concessions should drop to a 50% discount of the adult rate. This will move prices to nearer the average around Scotland.

However, at a meeting of the full Council today councillors approved a recommendation from the Executive Committee last week to phase in the reduction in discount over three years.

That means the concessions enjoyed by clubs will change from the current 75% discount of adult rates to a 66.7% discount in June, then a 58.33% discount in April 2024, then the 50% discount from April 2025.

Chief Executive Cleland Sneddon said: “Everyone has to understand that the funding pressures being faced by all local authorities, which depend on the Scottish Government for the vast majority of our income, means tough choices have to be made.

“However, as approved by councillors, we will work with SLLC to bring in these changes over three years, to help clubs prepare and explore their funding options.”