Responding to the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport select
committee report on Sport in our Communities Chairman of the
Local Government Association’s Culture Tourism and Sport Board,
Cllr said: “Grassroots sport and physical activity
has an essential role within the fabric of many communities and
it is integral in our recovery from COVID-19.
“It can support work to tackle the loneliness and health
inequalities that have been exacerbated by the pandemic, bring
communities together and promote healthier lifestyles. The
development and success of athletes in elite sports is also
dependent on a solid grassroots base.
“This report rightly recognises that local government is at the
forefront of providing facilities, supporting both formal and
informal opportunities for activities, and accessible to all
members of the community.
“Councils are responsible for 31 per cent of grass pitches; 13
per cent of sports halls; and almost a fifth of all health and
fitness facilities. The majority of accessible water space is
also found in public pools compared to provision provided by
schools and the private sector. But, as the report recognises,
there is already significant competition for use of available
facilities, which will worsen as one in three district councils
expect to have to close their facilities, as highlighted by our
recent survey of councils.
“We urge the Government to use the forthcoming Spending Review to
put local government finances on a long-term, sustainable
footing, so councils can repair ageing facilities, and resume
providing sports development support to the clubs and communities
that need it.”
