Ledbury have secured their Ross Road ground after Herefordshire Council transferred ownership of the playing fields to the club under the Communiy Asset Transfer Scheme.
As well as ensuring the sports club has complete control over the site the move also ensures that the facilities will never be the subject of housing or commercial development.
“This is a huge managerial and financial commitment which the club is taking on,” said Ledbury chairman Jeremy Thomas.
“Our partnership with the council has been excellent and we will be sorry to see it end. They have provided great support over the years. However, with increasing pressure on discretionary spend, the level of future support from the council was likely to be threatened by the need to divert resources to areas of critical need.
“The hard work starts now, but we are confident that we can step up a gear and in doing so safeguard the facilities for all the users of the site.
“The rugby club is largely run by volunteers and no players are paid. However, running a club with the excellent facilities we have is a hugely challenging job and we call on all sponsors, members and their families to continue their great support. ‘
“The club is having a very successful season, running three senior teams with the first XV currently fifth in the League. The junior membership stands at 350 and for the second year in succession we have an under 16 player in the England squad.’
“At times we are bulging at the seams, but what a great position to be in. With England hosting the Rugby World Cup this year we are anticipating a big rise in membership. We look forward to giving more local rugby players and supporters the chance to play and enjoy the game at Ross Road.”