Royal Albert FC, founded in 1878, were granted a 25-year lease for Tileworks Pitches and Pavilion.

The pitches and pavilion were previously managed by South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC). However, following a review of its business plan, the SLLC Board announced in March 2024 that it could not sustain service delivery from this facility and control was to be returned to the council.

The site consists of a metal framed changing pavilion, car parking, two 11-a-side grass pitches, one 9-a-side pitch and two synthetic 5-a-side pitches.

Royal Albert FC committee member Ross Thomson said: "We would like to thank everyone who has helped us get to this point and to the council for their help during the process.

"The support we have received from the community in Stonehouse has been remarkable. The hard work starts now for us.

"We have big plans going forward. As well as our current sides we have also just started our walking football section for the over 50s and we aim to start our girls section this year."

Executive Director of Housing and Technical Resources, Stephen Gibson, said: “It’s great news for the club and its supporters that a long-term agreement has been reached for them to use the Tileworks pitches and pavilion.

“I am sure this security will allow them to grow as a club, and it’s exciting to hear the plans they have for the future. I wish them every success.”