Playing pitch and sports facilities strategy
Working in partnership with Sport England and national governing bodies for sport, we commissioned external consultants to assess sport facilities across the district and develop a Playing Pitch and Sports Strategy for 2018-2036.
In August 2018, playing pitch and indoor and built sports facilities strategies were adopted by the council following validation by the national governing bodies of sport (NGBs). Whilst we commissioned the study on which the strategies are based, there are strategies for sport across all sectors and as such, the responsibility for delivering them rests with a wide range of partners.
What they cover
The Playing Pitch and Sports Facilities Strategy covers pitches and facilities for football, cricket, rugby union, American football, hockey and lacrosse.
The Indoor and Built Sports Facilities Strategy covers sports halls, swimming pools, health and fitness and athletics tracks.
Assessments have been completed that:
- summarise the supply of facilities
- outline current demand and evaluate likely future demand
- evaluate the overall adequacy of provision to meet current and projected future demand
- identify any key issues
The strategies and action plans build on any issues identified by these assessments and set out strategic priorities and actions.
Our vision
Our vision and that of our partners as set out in the Playing Pitch Strategy is “To ensure that there are enough playing pitches and related facilities in South Gloucestershire of the right type, the right quality and in the right place to meet the needs of the inhabitants of the district now and in the future.”
The vision that underpins the Indoor and Built Sports Facilities Strategy is “To progress the development of a network of high quality, accessible and sustainable sports facilities capable of promoting healthy lifestyles, including a strong health and wellbeing offer and the provision of inclusive services for all; enabling the inactive to become active and more residents to fulfil their potential by participating in sport and physical activity, thus improving their long-term health and well-being.”
The focus of these strategies is to provide direction to all partners, so together they can plan and develop a more flexible, efficient and sustainable range of community based sport and leisure facilities. These will ensure residents have the opportunity to be physically active, healthier and, where appropriate, develop their sporting ambitions.
We will review these plans periodically as necessary in line with relevant policies and guidance.