AN agreement has been reached between Derby City Council and Cricket Derbyshire over plans for the authority to increase rental fees for its pitches.
From April 1, the authority will raise fees from £37.80 to £55 for weekly matches after 5pm, and from £52.20 to £66 for weekday, weekend and public holiday games. It is thought that this will affect about 20 clubs.
The council says the extra cost means it will be able to keep maintaining its pitches throughout the rest of this year.
A report from officers states that the "increase is likely to be shared between 22 players".
Councillor Martin Repton said: "I am delighted that we have been able to find a way to maintain cricket provision across the city."
Ryan Duckett, Cricket Derbyshire director of partnerships, said: "We understand the need to increase fees for the new season.
"We are pleased to be working closely with the council to build a sustainable model for city club cricket and are confident new Cricket Derbyshire initiatives will have a positive impact on the numbers participating in cricket over the next few years."