Jeanfield Swifts Community FC has taken a decisive step forward in its ambitious stadium and pitch redevelopment initiative, submitting a high-stakes funding application to the Scottish Football Association this week that could transform the sporting landscape in Perth.

The project team have lodged the application for major funding from the Scottish Football Facilities Fund, administered by the SFA – this fund promises to elevate community sports facilities right across Scotland.

At its core, Riverside25 aims to create a comprehensive year-round facility with state-of-the-art pitches and infrastructure that enables the club to deepen its already substantial community impact, supporting physical and mental wellbeing throughout Perth and beyond.

"Our vision aligns perfectly with the SFA's funding priorities," said a project spokesperson. "As well as our long-held desire to provide a facility to match the quality of our club community, we're aiming to create Scotland's first purpose-built facility for women's and girls' football, addressing a critical gap in the national sporting infrastructure while building on our already thriving women's program."

The social impact of the project extends far beyond traditional football. The club already runs innovative community programs including Walking Football for women, the Welcome League for asylum seekers, holiday camps for local children, and the School of Football at Perth Grammar School. The expanded facility will amplify these efforts while simultaneously freeing up scarce municipal pitch resources, benefiting other clubs and teams throughout Perth & Kinross.

Infrastructure improvements are already underway. A newly completed active travel path now connects the stadium to Perth's cycling and walking network, making Riverside an accessible destination for football participants throughout the city. The planned dual all-weather pitches will eliminate seasonal disruptions, keeping local players in their home community rather than dispersing to facilities across Perth.

The project has secured impressive early funding commitments, including £300,000 from the Jeanfield Swifts Football Club Trust and £100,000 pledged by Perth & Kinross Council in February. With a total capital target of £2.5 million, discussions with additional funders are advancing rapidly.

Riverside25 represents more than just a football facility – it embodies the club's determination to realise the potential and to create inclusive sporting spaces that serve everyone. By investing in this vision, the SFA has an unprecedented opportunity to champion a project that will deliver lasting returns in community wellbeing, sports development, and social cohesion.

Join the team making Riverside25 a reality. Whether you can offer expertise in communications, accounting, legal support, general maintenance, or simply enthusiasm and energy, there's a place for you in this transformative community initiative. Contact us today to discover how you can contribute to building Perth's sporting future.