An exciting milestone has been reached for grassroots football as the Premier League, The FA and Government's Football Foundation have announced the completion of a set of Local Football Facility Plans.

The plans outline which facilities every local authority area across England need to meet the demand of football in their area. For the first time, this country has a road map to invest and build what every community needs. And the benefits of the facilities set out in the plans go far beyond the pitch. They transform communities and change lives for the better.

It’ll mean more people can play the national game, physical and mental health can be improved, communities can grow stronger and young people become more empowered. The plans are just the first step, which also includes work with local authorities, partners and communities to turn these plans into reality.

Find out more by heading to the Football Foundation website and searching for your Local Plan. Information can also be found by following @EssexCountyFA on Twitter and searching for ‘EssexFootball’ on Facebook.