Decision details

To endorse the strategy and make recommendations.

The Director of Learning and Leisure submitted a report on developments in the Playing Pitch Strategy since its adoption in 2003, the requirement to update the strategy, the issues currently impacting on the development of the strategy and service delivery and the financial input required to ensure its successful implementation.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the designation and allocation of pitches on all Parks and Countryside sites be managed in accordance with the overall Playing Pitch Strategy for the City as a whole.

(b)  That in respect of Education Leeds sites, all spare additional capacity, over and above that required for school use (including school team activities), be reserved for community use and allocated in accordance with the Playing Pitch Strategy; only where community groups show no interest should third party use be promoted.

(c)  That the Director of Learning and Leisure be instructed to include an update on the impact on sports provision both on and off school sites when subsequent Business Cases for the Building Schools for the Future programme are considered.

(d)  That the proposed pilot project to promote an increased community use of facilities provided through the Combined Secondary School PFI project through the Playing Pitch Strategy team be noted.

(e)  That the estimated cost of refurbishment of sports pitches and changing facilities across the City be noted and that Council officers and external funding bodies be encouraged to prioritise grants and external funding to outdoor sports facilities.

(f)  That the significant capital funding gap which will inevitably increase without investment be noted and that a further report on developments be brought to this Board towards the end of 2007.

Sport England

Development Department