The RFL has published a 30-page document giving advice on facility development to community clubs, it was revealed today.

The document, entitled ‘Advice on Facility Development for Community Clubs’, is available to download from the RFL’s website and offers help and advice to clubs looking at developing their existing facilities.

It is designed to present an often-daunting process in simple stages, explaining terms like “partnership funding” and offering advice on project development in simple, easy-to-understand language.

There is also a major chapter devoted to describing the different types of funding available and giving contact details for the relevant funding bodies.

Andy Harland, the RFL’s National Development Manager, welcomed the document.

He said: "Due to the fantastic work undertaken by amateur rugby league clubs in developing their facilities we have been able to combine all this good practice to produce the advice document.

“The information has been provided by many experts with a wealth of experience in dealing with capital projects, including volunteers from rugby league clubs who have successfully been through the process and now operate out of new premises.

“The RFL has advised on facility development for many years and we are delighted to be able to launch this simple document for club officials to use.

“Our game is working hard to improve the environments in which our sport is played and this is another small step in helping to achieve this aim."

Niel Wood , the RFL’s Rugby League Services Manager, said: “The RFL recognises the importance of good facilities to the continued growth and development of our clubs.

“There have been some fantastic examples of new facilities being gained due to the partnership working and funding attracted by the unified approach of the sport of Rugby League.

“Clubs will continue to benefit as the unification process continues and gets stronger and we will continue to see more new and improved facilities.”

The document can be found at http://www.therfl.co.uk/COMMUNITY/facility.php and is a free-to-use resource for all rugby league clubs.