Sports Infrastructure Funding To Improve Outdoor Facilities In Sussex

A new funding programme is being launched today by Wealden District Council to invest up to £600,000 over the next three years to enhance and provide outdoor sports pitches and facilities throughout the district.

A decision made at a Full Council meeting in May 2024 means the council will provide £200,000 per year over a three-year period, to organisations via a grant funding programme to support the delivery of the recommendations of Wealden’s Playing Pitch and Outdoor Sports Facilities Strategy.

These recommendations have been agreed with Sports Governing Bodies and Sport England and will see improvements being made to amenities throughout the district.

Match funding is being made available from Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) money and will help improve the quality, accessibility and protection of community-use sports facilities for generations to come.

Applications from local sports clubs, town and parish councils, schools and community organisations are being invited to support the delivery of a range of projects.

The outdoor sports that could benefit from the funding programme include football, rugby union, tennis, cricket, lawn bowls, hockey, netball and stoolball.

Councillor Kelvin Williams, Alliance for Wealden and Wellbeing and Asset Management Portfolio Holder, said:

“The health and wellbeing of our residents is pivotal to them living happier, more fulfilled, and heathier lives which is part of the new council’s corporate strategy for Wealden.

“The provision of high-quality local sports provision and outdoor sports facilities enables residents to access opportunities to adopt healthier lifestyles through physical activity, and actively being involved in their community.

“By working with and supporting local partners and communities we can strengthen local relationships and build healthy, resilient communities.

"This support funding will help to improve accessibility, and the quality of many local sports facilities located throughout the district.

"It is all about enabling and supporting local clubs improve and develop what they need at the grassroots level.”

To request an application pack, organisations should email their details and provide a short summary of the proposed project to [email protected].