SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION
Introduction
1.1 During November 2006, Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council commissioned PMP to review and update the previous playing pitch strategy completed in 2003. This strategy has been developed following the methodology outlined in “Towards a Level Playing Field and assesses the adequacy of provision for pitch sports, tennis and bowls in Sandwell”.
1.2 A strategy for the future delivery of pitches, bowls and courts in Sandwell is considered essential in light of the development of new households up to 2021 and the consequential increasing pressures on land. This significant growth in population will also result in increasing demand across the borough.
1.3 This playing pitch strategy will inform the development of policies within the Council’s local development framework and will set out the key actions for the future delivery of playing pitches across Sandwell.
1.4 The key objectives of this playing pitch strategy are to:
• audit the current provision of playing pitches and courts, ensuring an accurate record of the current stock of pitches within Sandwell MBC
• analyse the current level of pitch and court provision, including the geographical spread and quality of sites
• interpret the demand for pitches and courts in Sandwell, both now and in the future
• run the Playing Pitch Methodology (explained in detail in section five) to ascertain levels of under / over supply
• identify how facilities for pitch sports can be improved to meet the needs of residents
• provide strategic options and recommendations including
- provision to be protected
- provision to be enhanced
- relocation of pitches
- proposals for new provision
- pitches considered to be surplus to requirements
• develop local standards reflecting both qualitative and quantitative issues
• provide information and evidence to inform the decision making process and determine future development proposals.
1.5 This playing pitch strategy links with the borough wide greenspace audit (2005) and considers the provision of pitches and courts in detail, taking into account both the supply and the current demand. This assessment is primarily concerned with voluntary participation, by adults and young people, in competitive association
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football (referred to in this document as ‘football’), cricket, rugby union and hockey. The adequacy of provision for tennis and bowls is also assessed.
1.6 The strategy presents the key findings arising from extensive survey work and consultation, highlighting areas of both concern and opportunity and sets a vision and strategy for the future delivery of sports pitches and courts across the borough.
1.7 The strategy also sets out an action plan detailing the priorities for action over the next five years.
1.8 The findings of the study help the Council to maximise opportunities in the improvement or new provision of facilities, in particular those arising through the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme and planning obligations generated from new developments. The strategy also closely links with the Sandwell PE and Sport Strategy, and will inform the Black Country Sports Partnership Facility strategy that is currently underway.
1.9 It is important to emphasise that this document examines the provision of playing pitches (i.e. the playing surface, safety margins and the wider area for repositioning the pitch within the playing field) and not playing fields or open spaces (which include grass or other areas which are not used for sport). This is a key distinction since some of the areas surrounding pitches are not used for sport but are important in terms of open space. Tennis and bowls facilities included within this assessment will also consider the degree to which pitches are fit for purpose.
1.10 The following key areas are covered within this document:
• the current picture – a review of current participation trends and playing pitch provision in England, at a national, regional and local level • methodology – a summary of the research process and consultations undertaken • supply and demand – a quantitative and qualitative appraisal of the extent to which existing playing pitch provision meets the current (and future) competitive needs of participants in the sports under consideration • an application of Sport England’s Playing Pitch Methodology (PPM) • key actions, recommendations and priorities for the future based on the development of the main issues arising from the supply and demand consultation and PPM analysis. 1.11 Provision is analysed across the borough and is also considered more locally within the township areas of Sandwell where appropriate. All relevant information collected has been uploaded onto Active Places (www.activeplaces.com) to ensure an accurate and up to date representation of pitch provision in Sandwell.
1.12 Analysis of the adequacy of provision has been undertaken both at the current time and projecting forward to consider how the current supply will meet the anticipated demand in 2021. Population statistics used are derived from the 2004 sub national population projections.
1.13 All data collected as part of this study has been inputted into a complex excel spreadsheet. This toolkit has also been provided to the Council, enabling analysis of supply and demand issues at a geographical level. This allows detailed in depth
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analysis and testing of future scenarios. Access databases containing site quality assessments and consultation responses have also been provided to the Council.
1.14 The geographical spread of provision across Sandwell is illustrated graphically in figure 1.1 below. This will be returned to in more detail in sections 4 and 5.
Figure 1.1 – The distribution of pitches and courts across Sandwell MBC
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Sandwell Council
2.1 This section of the strategy assesses the current context for playing pitch provision both nationally and locally within Sandwell MBC. It contains the following information:
• context - a review of national, regional and local strategies relevant to sport and recreation in Sandwell • an analysis of demographic and participation trends • playing pitch provision - the national context and the local context • analysis areas - the assumed populations.
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Active People Survey Despite the explosion of local authority provision during the 1970’s Playing pitch provision makes a and recent private health and fitness boom, participation has remained substantial contribution to static, with recently released statistics highlighting that 21% of the delivering sustainable communities adult population aged 16 and over (8.5 million people) take part in both in providing opportunities for sport and active recreation (a minimum of three times thirty minutes physical activity (PPS1) and per week). enhancing the quality of the environment. The statistics enable detailed analysis on the different sports that people are currently participating in. Walking remains the most The findings of the Active People popular form of physical activity with 20% of the population survey, particularly in terms of the participating at least once a month. Fitness related activities, often levels of football participation, done on an individual basis or in classes, dominate more traditional reinforce the importance of quality sports such as football, rugby, cricket and hockey. However football provision for pitch sports. does feature in the top 10 of sporting activities with a total of 2.9 million people playing once a month or more. The findings from the survey reveal that the popularity of different sports varies substantially between men and women and across different regions in England.
Game Plan: a strategy for This report outlines the Government’s long term vision for increasing Outdoor sports facilities are often a delivering Government’s participation and high performance in sport: focal point for a local community, sport and physical activity functioning as a recreational and objectives (DCMS/Strategy “by 2020 to increase significantly levels of sport and physical activity, amenity resource in addition to a Unit, December 2002). particularly among disadvantaged groups, and to achieve sustained formal sports facility. This is levels of success in international competition” particularly true of pitches, which often have a secondary function of The Government wants to encourage the growth of a mass a local dog walking and kickabout participation culture, with the ambitious target of achieving 70% of the area. population active. However it is realised by experts within the field and those delivering sport and recreation that this target is challenging. It has therefore been recommended that a lower target of 50% of the population active by 2020, with a 1% increase targeted year-on-year.
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Game Plan’s remit is wider than sport alone and recognises the link Pitch provision can be instrumental between physical activity and improving health and the importance of in the achievement of the Game focussing on young people. In achieving such links and targeted Plan’s wider aims and objectives. participation increases there is recognition of the need for more innovative solutions to provision.
Physical Education, School Major investment to date and continuing investment relevant to this There are a significant number of Sport and Club Links project has been made into schools through the Physical Education, outdoor sports facilities at school Strategy (PESSCL). DfES: School Sport and Club Links Strategy (PESSCL). DfES: Learning sites. This serves to highlight the Learning through PE and through PE and Sport (2003) stresses the importance of PE and importance of community use Sport (2003) sport in schools (curricular and extracurricular) and reinforces the role agreements with schools to aid the of schools in serving the community. provision of facilities for the community and to maximise the use of resources.
In locations where there is express demand for further pitch provision, and where school facilities could be made available to the public but aren’t currently, the Council should consider the feasibility of formalising community-use agreements at school sites prior to seeking delivery of new outdoor sport facilities.
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Sport Playing Its Part: The The case is further illustrated in Sport Playing Its Part: The Sport and active recreation has the Contribution of Sport to Contribution of Sport to Building Safe, Strong and Sustainable potential to contribute to strengthen Building Safe, Strong and Communities (Sport England, 2005). This is one of a series of community involvement, Sustainable Communities documents published by Sport England outlining how sport can enrich engagement, identity and civic (Sport England, 2005) people’s quality of life, raise self-esteem and confidence levels and pride. provide enjoyment to individuals.
The Building Schools For the The Building Schools For the Future Programme, the largest This programme offers the Future Programme investment into the school estate provides significant opportunities opportunity to: nationwide to further joined up thinking and to provide community • protect school facilities resources. • enhance the value of school playing fields to the local community • create and enhance school club links and provide home grounds for more local clubs • facilitate the growth of mini and youth seven a side soccer • support and improve opportunities to play sport in school. • enhance joined up thinking.
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Choosing Health: making Choosing health sets out how the Government will work to provide Pitch provision is a key component healthier choices easier. more of the opportunities, support and information people want to of ensuring that people have the Government White Paper enable them to choose health. It aims to inform and encourage people opportunities to “choose health”. 2004 as individuals, and to help shape the commercial and cultural environment we live in so that it is easier to choose a healthy lifestyle. Choosing Activity: A Choosing Activity: A physical activity action plan sets out how the The provision of good quality physical activity action plan physical activity element of the choosing health white paper will be accessible pitches within Sandwell delivered. The Government plans to encourage and co-ordinate the can play a key role in the delivery action of a range of departments and organisations to promote of the targets of this action plan by increased participation in physical activity across England. providing residents with
opportunities to participate in pitch The aim of the plan is to promote activity for all, in line with the Chief sports. Medical Officers recommendations – at least five times a week.
The key outcomes of the action plan can be summarised as:
• improve information and raise awareness of the benefits of activity • support activity in the community by addressing barriers such as safety, cost and locality • support activity in early years and schools and improve community access to school facilities • support and encourage everyday activities like walking and cycling.
PPG17 Planning Policy Guidance Notes set out the Government’s national The policy guidance highlights the policies on different aspects of planning PPG17 states “the requirement for local authority
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policies on different aspects of planning. PPG17 states “the requirement for local authority government expects all local authorities to carry out assessments of decisions regarding open space, needs and audits of open space and sports and recreational facilities”. sport and recreation to be informed Well designed and implemented planning policies for open space, by local needs assessments and sport and recreation are fundamental to delivering broader an audit of existing provision. Such Government objectives, which include: audits should incorporate qualitative, quantitative and • supporting an urban renaissance accessibility considerations.
• supporting a rural renewal PPG17 assessments consider the provision of all the different types of • promotion of social inclusion and community cohesion outdoor sport facilities as one and do not break down the typology • health and well being into more detailed assessments for each sport. The playing pitch • promoting more sustainable development. strategy considers current and future pitch provision in detail as a bespoke element of outdoor sport facilities.
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Regional Context Document Summary of strategic drivers Links to playing pitch strategy Reviewed
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West Midlands The Regional Spatial Strategy guides the preparation of local authority The playing pitch strategy will ensure the Regional Spatial development plans and local transport plans to deliver a coherent opportunity for all to a healthy lifestyle. Strategy framework for regional development. The development of playing pitches and The overall vision for the West Midlands is to be: facilities will play a vital role in urban and rural renaissance. ‘an economically successful, outward looking and adaptable region, which is rich in culture and environment, where all people, working The playing pitch strategy identify areas in together are able to meet their aspirations and needs without need of improvement and development prejudicing the quality of life for future generations’. and ensure adequate provision to meet the needs of all sectors of the community. The key challenges and outcomes for the region are highlighted as: The playing pitch strategy will promote an • providing opportunities for all to progress and improve their quality excellent working relationship between of life the Local Authority and service providers • an advanced, thriving and diverse economy occupying a to meet the objectives of urban competitive position renaissance.
• successful urban and rural renaissance The playing pitch strategy will involve • diverse and distinctive cities, towns, sub-regions and communities continuous monitoring of all facilities with Birmingham as a ‘world city’ at its heart ensuring assets are maintained to a high standard. • recognition for its distinctive, high quality natural and built environment The playing pitch strategy will assess all • an efficient network of integrated sustainable transport facilities playing pitches in the area and identify and services those in need of improvement and areas with a lack of supply. • partnership working for a commonly agreed sustainable future.
Policies contained within the Regional Spatial Strategy of specific relevance to this playing pitch strategy include:
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• UR3-enhancing the role of city, town and district centres by, among other developments, identifying and creating opportunities for leisure development
• UR4-service providers to work with LA’s and community organizations, in partnership, to demonstrate how their activities contribute to the delivery of urban renaissance
• PA2-among other outcomes, ensure environmental and cultural assets are maintained and enhanced to help attract and develop business activity
• PA10-development plans should encourage the improvement and creation of facilities, subject to the capacity of the infrastructure and environment to accommodate them.
RSS phase 1 When the Secretary of State published the Regional Spatial Strategy A growth in population will mean an in 2004, he recognised that, in some instances, more work was increased demand for playing pitches. required to develop the strategy further. He noted that in this regard a particularly important sub-regional study was underway in the Black A raise in income levels will increase the Country; where there is a particular need to resolve a number of inter- amount of disposable income available for connected issues affecting the area. recreational activities.
This work has now been completed and the West Midlands Regional A more balanced population will link with Assembly and Black Country Consortium presented a Draft Revision the playing pitch strategies aim of social to the Regional Spatial Strategy to the Secretary of State at the end of inclusion. May 2006. The playing pitch strategy will ensure high The Black Country study is the urban renaissance strategy with a 30- quality, sustainable environments are year vision setting an ambitious and bold agenda for change. A created using open space as a basis. summary of the vision has been set out below:
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“By 2033, we aim to make the Black Country a confident ‘we can do it’ place, where our skills, work ethic and diversity are key to our prosperity. A transport revolution will have taken place and our manufacturing companies will be prospering, at the cutting edge of technological innovation but our high quality environment will dominate the urban landscape. All Black Country citizens will have a deep sense of belonging and will be enabled to contribute actively to the social, economic and physical well being of the area”
Following on from the vision, four headline objectives have been agreed to help drive the strategy forward:
• reverse net out-migration and grow population to 1.2 million;
• raise income levels to 90% of the UK average from 81% today;
• accommodate a more balanced population; achieving parity with the national social grade profile; and
• create high quality, sustainable environments.
RSS phase 2 Phase 2 revisions to the 2004 Regional Spatial Strategy relate to The growth of housing in Sandwell will housing, employment, transport and waste. mean an increase in the number of dwellers and therefore and increased With reference to housing figures, the recently published spatial demand for playing pitches and quality options consultation document (January 2007) presents three open space alternative housing growth scenarios (2001-2026). Figures relating to the Black Country range from 79,400 to 106,700 new dwellings. The playing pitch strategy will ensure existing open space is managed correctly Whilst the detailed breakdown of these figures across the Black and the local infrastructure is supported. Country authorities will be considered through the Black Country Joint Core Spatial Strategy, the spatial options consultation suggests that The playing pitch strategy will improve the
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the number of new dwellings constructed in Sandwell will range from quality of life within the community by 23,600 to 36,400. encouraging participation in physical activity and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Once finalised, the scale of house building in Sandwell up to 2026 will It will also enable the Council to plan now have a significant impact on open space, sport and recreation for the effective delivery of pitches in requirements in the City. One of the greatest challenges the Council future years. face is ensuring that the quality of life for existing and new communities in the area is improved. Fundamental to achieving this is to enhance existing infrastructure, including open space sport and recreation infrastructure, to support the scale of growth proposed.
The implications of population growth on the open space, sport and recreation network in Sandwell are highlighted throughout this report.
RSS phase 3 Phase Three of the RSS Revision will be looking at critical rural Upon completion of the RSS phase 3 services, recreational provision, regionally significant environmental review, the Council will have a clearer issues and the provision of a framework for Gypsies and Travellers steer of the regional planning framework sites. with regards to open space and sport policies.
West Midlands This will inform Phase 3 of RSS review, and consider the provision of Upon completion of the RSS phase 3 Regional Sport sports facilities across the West Midlands. review, the Council will have a clearer Facilities audit steer of the regional planning framework with regards to open space and sport policies.
Black Country Sport This study is currently underway and will inform Black Country Joint The Black Country Joint Core Strategy will Facilities audit Core Strategy, and consider the provision of sports facilities across be a key-planning document governing the Black Country. open space, sport and recreation development in Sandwell up to 2026 The
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development in Sandwell up to 2026. The Council should use the findings of the Playing Pitch Strategy to influence Core Strategy policy formulation.
West Midlands Sport England as the national agency driving sports development, The correct provision of playing pitches Regional Plan for Sport takes a strategic lead on the provision of sport. will increase participation.
Sign Up For Sport is a plan for sport and physical activity in the region. Wider access to sport will be provided and Its formulation has involved national, regional and local consultations this will deliver Government policies for with key stakeholders, agencies and organisations across the private, social inclusion. public and voluntary sectors that fully understand the strategic issues and local needs of the region. It has been facilitated by Sport England Healthy living will be promoted through under the guidance of the new West Midlands Sports Board. the provision of playing pitches.
The aim of the plan is: Sport development will be encouraged as demand will be met. ‘to significantly increase participation in sport within all age and social groups, leading to improvements in health and other social and Communities will become stronger by economic benefits and providing the basis for progression into higher reducing the lack of facilities available and levels of performance for those with talent and the desire to progress.’ developing strong links.
The plan has seven main outcomes: Improving school playing pitches and making playing pitches available to • increase participation in club and community sport schools will result in a high standard of education through sport and PE. • improve levels of sport performance
• widen access to sport
• improve the health and well being of people through sport
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• create safer and stronger communities through sport
• improve education through PE and sport
• benefit the economy through sport.
Black Country Sports The Black Country Sports Partnership Business Plan outlines how the The playing pitch strategy will take a Partnership Business Black Country Sports Partnership (BCSP) will take the strategic lead strategic view of playing pitches in the Plan for sport in the sub region. area and implement the Black Country vision by improving facilities in the area The purpose of the BCSP is: “To work together to increase and encouraging participation in sport and participation and performance in high quality sport and physical physical activity. activity” The playing pitch strategy will establish The Vision is: “To create a quality of life through sport and physical links between sport, education and active activity by establishing the Black Country as a world-class sporting recreation through the attributes learnt environment”. from pitch sports, such as social and behavioural skills. The aim is: “to drive the increases needed in levels of participation in sport and physical activity for all people in the Black Country and The playing pitch strategy should increase enable those with talent to progress to the best of their ability and in participation rates by improving the doing so make a significant and measurable contribution to the Black condition and provision of playing pitches Country Vision”. within the community and schools. This will be a major driving force behind the The BCSP has many key objectives for sport: objective of enabling 85% of 5-16 year olds to receive 2 hours of quality PE and • where appropriate, to integrate the strategic planning for sport into sport per week. the implementation of the Black Country Vision. By improving the facilities available to • to have established an accessible, integrated and progressive athletes the playing pitch strategy will sports pathway linking sport, education and active recreation. support the development of talented athletes and will unlock potential
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athletes and will unlock potential. • enabling 85% of 5 –16 year olds to receive 2 hours of quality PE and School Sport within and beyond the curriculum. Through community involvement and social inclusion the playing pitch strategy • supporting performance sport and talented athletes by 2009. will widen access to sport. Increased provision of pitches means there is easier • continuously widen access to sport. access to a variety of different communities.
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Local context
Document Reviewed Summary of strategic drivers Links to playing pitch strategy
Community Plan The five priorities for action are: The learning of social attributes by participating in sport will contribute to a • Promoting a Lifelong Learning Society· lifelong learning society.
• Improve Health and Achieve the Prerequisites of Health The playing pitch strategy will ensure the adequate provision of playing pitches • Revitalising the Sandwell Economy and will in turn provide the health benefits of participation in pitch sports. • Restructuring Sandwell's Physical Environment· The development of more, better quality • Creating a Safer Sandwell pitches in Sandwell will help to address latent demand. This in turn will increase the usage of the facilities and will revitalize the economy.
The playing pitch strategy will make the best use of open space and restructure Sandwell’s physical environment.
The provision of pitches will provide purpose for young people and reduce crime. Cultural Strategy Sandwell’s cultural strategy identifies the aims of the council for the The playing pitch strategy will ensure the future of culture in the area. provision of pitches for PE and sport.
The main aims are: By providing the provision of pitches to all areas of the community the • to develop an ‘Active Sandwell’ through the provision of opportunity for participation is increased opportunities for PE, sport and recreational activity to support and a healthy lifestyle is promoted. healthier lifestyles
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healthier lifestyles
• to strengthen the framework for cultural activities that support health and well being to secure long-term support for healthy lifestyles Active People The Active People survey looks at key indicators in relation to sport The playing pitch strategy should and physical activity: increase Sandwell’s participation rates by attracting funding to improve the • participation – 14.9% take part in regular participation (3 times a provision of playing pitches week for 30 minutes at moderate intensity). This is in the bottom 25% of the country By creating strong links in the community and providing high quality playing pitches • Sandwell is ranked 351st out of 354 Local Authorities nationally a sense of pride and a community and 34th out of 34 in the West Midlands for participation identity will be established. In this way the playing pitch strategy could increase • volunteering – 3% volunteer to support sport (at least 1 hour a the number of volunteers. Increased week). This is in the bottom 25% of the country volunteers will ensure that sports opportunities are available to all sectors • Sandwell is ranked 334 out of 354 Local authorities nationally and of the community. 33rd out of 34 in the West Midlands for volunteering The playing pitch strategy could increase • 61.7% of adults in Sandwell are satisfied with sports provision in the number of adults who take part in the local area, in comparison to 69.1% in the West Midlands and competitive sport by providing high 69.5% nationally quality pitches. This will increase interest in competitive sport. • 10.7% of adults in Sandwell take part in competitive sport, in comparison to 13.9% in the West Midlands and 15% nationally. This PPS will also consider the implications on pitches should participation increase. Sandwell Leisure and The main aims of the plan are: The playing pitch strategy will ensure the Cultural Strategy correct provision of playing pitches and
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will in turn provide the health benefits of • Improving health and achieving conditions of good health participation in pitch sports.
• Creating a safer Borough By providing a wider access to sport through the provision of playing pitches • Promoting a lifelong learning society crime can be reduced and sport can provide a purpose in young people’s • Ensure quality and innovation in leisure and culture lives.
• Provide for the leisure and cultural interests of young people The learning of social attributes by participating in sport will contribute to a • Use leisure and culture to improve Sandwell’s image lifelong learning society.
The playing pitch strategy will ensure the development of quality playing pitches and this will create a sense of pride within the community. This can be further enhanced with the success in sport of local teams and schools.
The playing pitch strategy will have young people at the centre of it. Young people’s interests will be appealed to and this will develop potential and self- confidence.
By improving playing pitches and creating new playing pitches quality and innovation in leisure and culture will be met through the playing pitch strategy.
Sandwell The objective of this strategy is to improve the quality of life in The playing pitch strategy will allow for a Neighbourhood Sandwell and narrow the gap between the most deprived 39 super wider range of access to all areas of the
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Strategy output areas and the others. community including deprivation areas.
Sandwell Green Space The study was carried out to provide Sandwell MBC with detailed The playing pitch strategy will drive the Audit 2006 evidence to support the production of the Local Development improvement of outdoor sports facilities Framework and Supplementary Planning Documents. It found that: and provide strategic direction to the Council to create more high quality/high • Sandwell has 2042 hectares of green space, with approximately value. 59% (by area) having unrestricted public access. The playing pitch strategy will improve • nearly 40% of this accessible green space is Natural and Semi- the quality of outdoor sports facilities in natural Green Space and 22% Parks and Gardens. There are a the area and create more high large number of relatively small Amenity Green Spaces making up quality/high value outdoor sports 18% of all unrestricted green space. facilities.
• there are 48 outdoor and sports facilities divided into a total area of 332.12 Ha, which is 16.26% of the total area. 20 outdoor sports facilities have unrestricted access.
• only four outdoor sports facilities in the area are classed as high quality/high value. Sandwell UDP The Sandwell Unitary Development Plan (UDP) is a ten-year plan, The playing pitch strategy will: which guides how land should be used.
• determine the adequacy of the Policy OS7 (sports facilities) states that proposals for development existing stock of pitches and identify that would involve the loss of existing sports pitches or facilities will areas where new provision is not be permitted and indicates specifically that: required.
• the current level of provision of playing fields and sports pitches in • provide recommendations to support Sandwell is below the standard advocated by the National Playing the policy of increased community Fields Association for pitch sports use of school sites.
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• the council must guard against any further loss, and to make the • provide a detailed evidence base for best use of existing provision and to maintain or enhance its quality the need to protect school pitches.
• Policy OS11 states the wider community use of school playing fields, other school facilities, such as sports halls, and private facilities will be encouraged, especially in areas where public provision is deficient
• synthetic turf pitches should not be considered as a direct replacement for grass pitches.
Sandwell Education This Strategy seeks to provide a local structure for development The playing pitch strategy will influence and Sports Strategy based on the principles of the National Action Plan “A Sporting Future social inclusion by relating to community 2003 - 08 for All” identity and building strong links the wider community, including minority The key issues identified for action by this strategy are: groups. The strategy will aim to ensure that pitches are accessible to all. • ensuring a proactive approach towards social inclusion, including setting targets for participation by individuals from ‘excluded’ By ensuring the adequate provision of groups. playing pitches the strategy will ensure that provision meets curricular and • addressing specific cultural needs of Sandwell’s diverse extracurricular needs. communities, including its black and minority ethnic communities, girls and women, people with disabilities, older people. The playing pitch strategy will address the low profile of physical education in • maximizing opportunities through partnership work with the schools by targeting the provision of high voluntary sports sector. quality facilities and promoting an active and healthy lifestyle. • ensuring opportunities for continued physical education and sport activity beyond the school day. The playing pitch strategy will raise awareness of Sandwell’s sport and • supporting the role of schools and teachers in delivering high leisure provision in the area. lit t hi d l i h i l d ti
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quality teaching and learning physical education. High quality pitches are a pre-cursor for the provision of quality physical • addressing the low profile of physical education in many schools. education and sport programmes.
• developing links with other key strategies, including those for The playing pitch strategy will focus upon education and lifelong learning, social inclusion and health sustainable development of open space promotion. and a high standard of facilities.
• linking the marketing operation of the borough’s sport and leisure The high standard of pitches will provision with emerging visitor economy strategies for Sandwell encourage sporting excellence and and the Black Country. provide a boost to talented people in Sandwell. • addressing negative perceptions of current provision amongst some sectors of the public through marketing and communication.
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Sandwell Council – demographics and profile
2.2 In analysing the need and demand for any new sport and recreation facilities it is important to assess the size and composition of the local leisure markets and the impact they will have upon facility usage as well as the local strategic context.
2.3 Sandwell is a Metropolitan Borough located at the centre of the West Midlands conurbation surrounded by urban areas on all sides. It covers a total of 86 sq km and has a total population of over 280,000 people.
2.4 Sandwell has six towns, one of which is defined regionally as a strategic centre (West Bromwich). It has good transport links due to the proximity of the M5 and M6 and good public transport links with the Midland Metro, railway links and bus depots. Sandwell also contains an area of green belt, the Sandwell valley and an award winning green flag park, Haden Hill Park.
2.5 The age profile, unemployment rates, mobility and ethnicity breakdown of Sandwell all affect the propensity of residents to use pitches and sports provision in general. For example, the cost of using facilities is a barrier for using facilities for people with low incomes whilst the locality of provision is a barrier for people without their own transport and who rely on public transport. Table 2.1 overleaf provides a summary of the key demographic trends and the likely implications on pitch usage across Sandwell.
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Table 2.1 - Demographic analysis summary
Demographic Indicator Impact on facility usage
The total population is 282,904 There is a large potential user base for leisure (2001 census). facilities and sports pitches within Sandwell. 32% of the population are below A high proportion of this population is aged between the age of 25. 5-14, which will have an impact on the demand for junior pitches. 37.5% of households in Sandwell The number of households without a car is do not have a car or van, significantly higher than the national average and compared to 27% in England and therefore indicates that localised sport and leisure Wales as a whole. facilities and public transport links are extremely important to ensure residents are able to access facilities. The population of Sandwell is The propensity of other cultures to participate in active ethnically diverse with a BME sport is lower and therefore it is likely that the population of 13.9% compared to participation rates will be lower than in other areas. 4.58% nationally. The high level of residents of Asian origin also impacts on demand for particular sport and contributes to the higher participation in cricket. In 2004/5 Sandwell’s overall The cost of using facilities and participating in sporting employment rate was 65%. This activity may be a barrier for residents that are is below the national rate of 75% unemployed or on low incomes. and that of other Black Country boroughs. Furthermore, Sandwell has one of the lowest household income levels in the country.
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Participation trends in key sports
2.6 Key national statistics, trends, issues and implications for future demand for playing pitches are outlined in Table 2.2.
Table 2.2 – National trends in pitch sports
Key facts Key trends Implication for pitches and ancillary facilities
Out of school, football has More children are playing due More mini soccer sized pitches experienced the biggest to popularity of mini soccer needed growth in ‘frequent’ participation from 37% in 1994 to 43% in 1999
Female soccer is now starting More women are playing the Improved quality of ancillary
ll to grow nationally at a rapid game facilities and in particular pace dedicated changing facilities
Footba A 300-400% growth in More mid-week fixtures, more Players defecting to five-a-side, informal 5-a-side football non-grass pitches therefore additional synthetic turf and indoor space may be required
The FA forecast the number of More pitches will be needed The vast number of children youth players to increase by playing mini-soccer will result in 10% over next five years the need for more junior pitches in five year’s time
Kwik cricket – a game devised Increased participation by More pitches used for Kwik cricket for children is played by 1.1 young people and new mobile pitches
million pupils in 90% of the introduced in schools country’s primary schools – 434,000 of these are girls
Despite the declining men’s Increased participation by Improved access needed to game, the number of women’s women quality training pitches and clubs increased from 4,200 in improved ancillary facilities in 1997 to 7,611 in 2001 smaller clubs is required
England won The Ashes in The England and Wales Increased pressure on pitch Cricket 2005, but subsequently lost Cricket Board has reported a availability, and requirements for them in 2006/7. 50% increase in participation additional ancillary across all forms of cricket accommodation
Rugby - Making An Impact is Over the past five seasons, Clubs will be targeted to ensure the most comprehensive study the average number of sides they can run additional teams, into participation trends in fielded by each active club therefore the demand for pitches rugby union in England. 254 has fallen to an average of will remain static or potentially ex-players, 193 people 2.7 per club, from 2.9 in the increase (outcome of Rugby involved in rugby at all levels, 1997-98 season. World Cup 2007 will have an and 1,708 members of the impact) public were interviewed Union between January and April 2003 Rugby The number of adult males Decline in the men’s game is May require better quality pitches playing rugby has decreased recognised but many with ancillary facilities by 12% over last five years initiatives are in place to increase opportunities and promote the sport
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Key facts Key trends Implication for pitches and ancillary facilities
Women’s participation has Increase in participation by Improved clubhouse facilities and increased significantly in women. Women’s rugby is increased access to pitches
recent years - from still a minority sport but is approximately 2,000 players in stronger than ever, 1988, to 8,000 by 1998 particularly in universities.
Hockey is one of top five most Slight decline in youth Continuing requirement for STPs popular games in schools, participation. Emphasis and improved clubhouse facilities although adult participation therefore is placed on to meet league requirements and declined from 20% in 1994, to promoting hockey among to encourage club/team formation ckey 17% in 1999 and the number young people to secure the may be required.
Ho of children citing it as future of the game. However, enjoyable dropped from 13% many clubs still do not have to 10% over the same period access to STPs
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Playing pitch provision
Provision in England - A lack of reliable data
2.7 The Register of Recreational Land was undertaken in the early 1990s, however, the data collected has not been updated, and therefore it is an increasingly unreliable source and should be treated purely as historical data. 2.8 With regards to ownership of pitches, around 40% of adult size pitches are in local authority control (leisure services and town/parish council), 30% in education authority control and 30% in private/voluntary sport clubs control. The Register of Recreational Land was undertaken in the early 1990s. However, the data collected has not been updated, and therefore is becoming increasingly unreliable.
2.9 Despite this, the statistics tend to reflect the most recent pitch audit – the Register of English Football Facilities (REFF) – which was commissioned by the Football Foundation and the Football Association in 2001 and completed in February 2002. The information collected went ‘live’ on the REFF website (www.reff.org.uk) in November 2002. Research revealed that there are 35,044 grass football pitches in England (21,640 adult, 8,418 junior, 4,986 mini).
2.10 Most recently, analysis of football play by the FA reveals that 82% of all football is played on public sector land of which approximately 25% is on school sites.
2.11 In July 2004 Sport England launched the Active Places website (www.activeplaces.com). This website contains information about all sports facilities in England (of certain types) and includes information on pitches in each local authority. The audit produced as part of this study will be uploaded back on to the Active Places website, ensuring that all pitches are included and details are up to date. The Council will then be able to use this tool to complement the pitch strategy and to consider the implications of different scenarios, alongside assessments of other types of sport facility. The Active Places database now indicates that 93% of residents are within a 20-minute drivetime of at least one playing pitch.
A lack of monitoring
2.12 With the exception of REFF and Active Places there are no other reliable data sources concerning the numbers of pitches in England. In addition, there is no nationally established system for monitoring change.
2.13 The exact number of pitches being lost to development or neglect remains a contentious issue. The DCMS has established a Playing Fields Monitoring Group, tasked with publishing some definitive data.
2.14 By virtue of statutory instrument made in 1996, Sport England is a statutory consultee on proposals for development that affect playing fields, land used as playing fields at any time in the last five years which remains undeveloped, or land which is identified for use as a playing field in a development plan. All applications that local planning authorities are minded to approve, but have attracted an objection from Sport England, will be referred to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) for consideration.
2.15 The local planning authority must notify Sport England when a relevant planning application is received. Data stored by Sport England on statutory consultations since 1999 reveals the increasing pressure that is being placed upon pitches throughout the country (Table 2.7 overleaf).
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2.16 Recently published figures suggest that sixty-two new playing fields were created in 2004/05 and in contrast, only two playing fields were completely lost neither of which had previously been accessible to the general public. Of all applications regarding playing pitches, 96% resulted in either no change to the overall level of pitch provision or an improvement on the pitches previously there.
Table 2.3 - Statutory consultations with Sport England
Region Number of consultations received
1999- 2000- 2001- 2002- 2003- 2004- 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 East 38 93 88 116 144 197 East Midlands 30 74 112 140 137 151 London 25 36 39 59 59 40 North East 37 36 71 74 96 85 North West 92 129 145 193 175 72 South East 147 214 162 234 237 227 South West 48 36 73 83 181 149 West Midlands 111 162 161 213 194 199 Yorkshire 97 95 134 185 190 151 England 625 875 985 1297 1413 1271
2.17 As shown in Table 2.3, Sport England was consulted on more planning applications during 2003 / 2004 than in any other year and the total level declined slightly by 2004- 2005. During 2004 /05, Sport England objected to 98 planning applications with compromised the provision of outdoor sports facilities. Of these, 51 did not go ahead.
2.18 Recently released figures by the DCMS state that £157 million has been invested over the last year in 482 outdoor facilities and 157 indoor facilities. This includes synthetic pitches and sports halls amongst other facility types.
2.19 The DCMS commended these improvements, highlighting the role that investment in facilities can have in increasing the level of physical activity across the country. Sport England continue to safeguard pitches as well as helping to enhance sporting facilities by only giving approval for alterations where there are increased benefits for sporting facilities.
2.20 The supply of pitches and courts in Sandwell will be considered in detail in section 4.
Summary
2.21 The box overleaf summarises the main implications that the contextual review has on Sandwell and the provision of playing pitches.
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Area Key Issues Role of this strategy in achieving these objectives
National context • the importance of meeting • it will highlight geographical wider national policy deficiencies in provision and objectives, particularly: participation (through the number of teams) and enable - provision of opportunities the strategic planning of future for identified target groups pitch provision - promoting the health related benefits of sport • the strategy will consider the and leisure activities implications of increased participation on the demand - increasing mass for facilities. participation levels.
• the importance of closely reflecting National Governing Body of Sport priorities. Regional Context • there is a high emphasis • the playing pitch strategy will placed on sport in the West ensure that Sandwell Council Midlands and the importance is able to plan future pitch of providing opportunities for provision to ensure it all to progress and improve contributes effectively to the quality of life and health is overall objectives of the West recognised Midlands region • the vision for the Black Country will see significant • the Black Country Sports change in the region within Partnership provides significant the next 30 years. support and direction for the delivery of Sport across the four Black Country authorities and advocates a regional approach to sporting facilities
• effective provision of pitches will ensure that opportunities to participate in increased physical activity are provided. Local Context • the need to ensure that sports • the strategy will support and development priorities and guide the role of school facility development are pitches, highlighting areas closely linked where provision at school sites is particularly important to meet • the importance of increasing demand. The strategy will also the number of people who guide future use of pitches at have the opportunity to take school sites both through the part in various sporting extended schools programme activity, in particular in under- and the Building Schools for represented groups and areas the Future initiative.
• ensuring school outdoor • the strategy will ensure that the sports facilities are used to Council are able to stimulate supplement demand. increased participation in pitch sports across all sectors and to accommodate this increased demand in future years.
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Methodology for assessing supply and demand
Previous approaches to identifying need
3.1 The first attempt to establish a standard of provision for public open space and playing fields was made by the NPFA in 1925 and has been subsequently refined on a number of occasions. It is known as the ‘Six Acre Standard’.
3.2 The Sandwell UDP refers to the NPFA six acre standard, highlighting that the current level of provision of playing fields and sports pitches in Sandwell is below the standard advocated by the National Playing Fields Association for pitch sports (1.2 hectares per 1000 population). Following the production of PPG17 in 2002, there is a focus on the use of local standards rather than aspiring to the national standard. Local standards for all types of open space, including pitches, tennis and bowls facilities will be derived as part of the next stages of work on the Sandwell MBC greenspace audit.
3.3 New local standards for pitch provision, tennis and bowls in Sandwell MBC will be set later in this report.
The Playing Pitch Methodology (PPM)
3.4 ‘Towards a Level Playing Field: A manual for the Production of a Playing Pitch Strategy’ was launched in Spring 2003 and updates the previous methodology. This revised methodology was produced by PMP following widespread consultation on the 1991 methodology, in conjunction with a steering group comprising representatives from the Central Council of Physical Recreation, Local Government Association, Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, Loughborough University and Sport England.
3.5 The aim of the PPM is to determine the number of pitches required for each activity based on demand in an actual or predicted set of circumstances. The essential difference between the methodology and approaches based on standards is that, instead of using land area per head of population as the basic unit, it measures demand (at peak times) in terms of teams requiring pitches and then compares this with the pitches available, thus providing a tangible measure of the adequacy of existing supply.
3.6 The particular advantage of this methodology is that it is related precisely to the local situation and the very task of collating and analysing the information highlights problems and issues from which policy options and solutions can be explored. Consideration is given to the quality of pitches and the ability of pitches to sustain the required level of matches.
3.7 The Playing Pitch Methodology (PPM) comprises eight stages. Stages 1 to 6 involve numerical calculations, whilst Stages 7 and 8 develop issues and solutions. The methodology is employed to analyse the adequacy of current provision and to assess possible future situations, in order that latent and future demand (identified through Team Generation Rates), and the problems with quality, use and capacity of existing pitches can be taken into account.
3.8 The playing pitch methodology also enables the analysis of the impact of increased participation rates and changing participation trends on the demand for pitches across the borough in future years.
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3.9 PPM calculations take into account only those pitches that are secured for community use, in line with Sport England guidance.
3.10 The Football Association (FA) have recently begun collecting participation data through the County Administration System (CAS), enabling accurate benchmarking against similar authorities and more robust assessments of latent demand. The information available has been used to add value to the findings of the strategy, and to more accurately predict future need.
Our approach
3.11 The success of the methodology outlined above depends largely on obtaining as accurate a tally as possible of the number of teams, pitches and courts within Sandwell Borough or wanting to play within Sandwell Borough. To achieve this, a full audit of pitches, users and providers within the authority boundary was conducted.
3.12 In order to ascertain demand and understand key issues for in the local area questionnaires (which can be found in Appendix A) were sent to:
• all known football, cricket, rugby, hockey, tennis and bowls clubs based within (or close to) the authority boundaries (identified in governing body and county association handbooks, league handbooks, pitch booking records, websites, local press, the previous PPS and local knowledge)
• all known schools and colleges within the Borough
• Town Committees.
3.13 Table 3.1 overleaf summarises the response rates from the postal questionnaires. It was of paramount importance that a 100% response rate was received from providers of playing pitches. For this reason, all non-responding schools and colleges were telephoned in order to ascertain information regarding the level of provision at each site.
3.14 The purpose of the club surveys was to crosscheck information and gather qualitative information (i.e. comments) from clubs, providing all clubs with an opportunity to input their views into the study and enabling a detailed understanding of issues faced by clubs playing within the local area.
3.15 To increase response rates, a reminder card was sent a week before the original posting deadline and in light of poor response rates, the deadline was extended.
3.16 A 100% survey response rate was not needed from clubs. This is because missing club information (basic details of club membership and venues required to run the PPM) was attained through a variety of sources including:
• telephone calls to clubs in order to obtain the basic details required
• telephone calls to league secretaries and schools all providing qualitative information as well adding to the quantitative detail. The league secretaries were particularly helpful in attaining the missing club information.
• current league handbooks
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• extensive internet research, through national databases including the Football Association, Rugby Football Union, England and Wales Cricket Board and England Hockey, league websites and clubs own websites
• council pitch booking data
• previous playing pitch strategy data
• audit undertaken as part of the green spaces audit and other Council records.
3.17 In addition to distributing questionnaires by post, a version of the survey was published online and hosted on the PMP website. Clubs were provided with a link to the website and provided with the opportunity of completing the survey online.
Table 3.1 - Consultation Audit Response Rates
Organisation Type Number of Number of Response Rate (%) Surveys Surveys Sent Returned Schools 122 41 34% Football Clubs 199 42 21% Rugby Union Clubs 2 0 - Cricket Clubs 4 0 - Hockey Clubs 3 2 67% Tennis Clubs 4 2 50% Bowls Clubs 18 2 11% Netball Clubs 4 1 25% Total 356 90 25%
3.18 The total response rate for the number of returned surveys is 25%, which is considered to be a good response rate for a postal survey. While the response from schools and hockey clubs was pleasing, responses from other clubs, in particular bowls clubs, were disappointing.
3.19 All non-responding clubs were telephoned in order to obtain the information required and to provide a further opportunity to provide comments on the perception of the adequacy of facilities across the borough. This ensured a wider representative sample of viewpoints were gathered to supplement the opinions of those responding to the household survey.
3.20 Responses from Town Committees were also disappointing, with only one Committee taking up the opportunity to participate.
3.21 In addition to the distribution of postal surveys, extensive consultation has been undertaken with internal officers, league secretaries, national governing bodies and other external agencies for all sports.
3.22 A summary of key consultations undertaken, along with emerging issues from early consultations can be found in the progress report contained in Appendix B. This progress report was compiled towards the end of the data collection phase.
3.23 An assessment of the data obtained from the above research and consultation is detailed in Section 4.
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Supply and demand
Introduction
4.1 This section outlines the current situation in Sandwell in terms of pitch provision for, and demand from, football, cricket, rugby and hockey clubs. The overall supply is analysed, taking into consideration:
• overall pitch stock
• community pitches
• location of pitches
• site visits
• club consultation.
Supply: playing pitch provision in Sandwell
Pitch stock 4.2 Overall, the research methods outlined in Section 3 identified 259 playing pitches in Sandwell Borough. This figure includes all known public, private, school and other pitches whether or not they are in secured public use. The full audit of pitches can be seen in Appendix C. These pitches comprise:
• 133 adult football pitches • 48 junior football pitches • 34 mini football pitches • 23 cricket pitches • 9 adult rugby union pitches • 1 junior rugby union pitches • 3 adult grass hockey pitches • 8 STPs. 4.3 Of these pitches, 176 (68%) are full-size adult football, cricket, rugby and hockey pitches. This equates to circa one pitch for every 1,259 adults (aged 16 plus) in Sandwell. This ratio is lower than the national average in 1991 (Source: The 1991 Playing Pitch Strategy) and compares unfavourably to many other authorities for which informal data is currently available (from PMP’s database) as shown in Table 4.1 overleaf. It is also lower than the ratio of adults to pitches in 2001, reflecting the growing demand for smaller sized junior pitches.
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Table 4.1 - Ratio of adult pitches per 1000 adults
Local Authority Ratio (Pitches: adults) Kennett District Council 1:365 St Albans City and District Council 1:540 South Somerset District Council 1:608 Colchester City Council 1:655 Halton Borough Council 1:677 North Lincolnshire Council 1:773 North Wiltshire District Council 1:804 Derwentside District Council 1:815 Kirklees Metropolitan Borough Council 1:867 South Ribble Borough Council 1:891 Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council 1:968 England 1:989 Northamptonshire County 1:1,015 St Helens 1:1,050 Swindon BC 1:1094 Portsmouth City Council 1:1,100 Sandwell Borough Council 1:1,259 Wolverhampton City Council 1:1,537
4.4 The local ratio for specific sports in comparison to the estimated national average is shown in Table 4.2 below. Despite the poor ratio of pitches to the number of adults overall, it can be seen that provision of football facilities remains above the national average.
Table 4.2 - Ratio of adult pitches to adults, for football and cricket
Sport Sandwell England Borough Council (adults per (adults per pitch) pitch) Football 1:1,666 1:1,840 Cricket 1:9,635 1:4,243 Rugby Union 1:24,622 1:8968
Community pitches
4.5 In line with ‘Towards a Level Playing Field: A manual for the Production of a Playing Pitch Strategy’ (Sport England, CCPR and the NPFA 2003), our definition of ‘community pitches’ is those pitches with ‘secured community use’, recognising that this has a considerable bearing upon the value of facilities both individually and collectively to the community at large.
4.6 In practice this definition embraces:
• pitches which are in local authority management or other public ownership or management • any facilities owned, used or maintained by clubs/private individuals which as a matter of policy or practice are available for use by large sections of the public
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through membership of a club or admission fee. In either case the ‘cost of use’ must be reasonable and affordable for the majority of the community. • pitches at education sites which are available for use by the public through formal community use arrangements • any other institutional facilities which are available to the public as a result of formal dual/community agreements.
4.7 Pitches at educational establishments are therefore only considered to be ‘secured’ for community use if one or more of the following is applicable:
• there is a formal community use agreement in place • there is a leasing management arrangement between the Council and the school requiring the pitch to be available to community teams • a policy of community use minuted by the school, including the provision of a tariff of charges • minutes of the board of school governors allowing use of pitches by community teams • written commitment from the school and; • where it is the proved intention of the school to maintain access for community teams to its pitch(es) at peak times for the next two or more years.
4.8 While many schools in Sandwell permit community use, few were able to demonstrate comprehensive formal agreements to meet the above criteria. Only those schools where community use was confirmed have therefore been included; specifically: Langley High, George Salter High, Willingsworth High and Manor Foundation High.
4.9 The issue of securing the remaining pitches for community use will be returned to in section six. This links to the opportunities offered through the extended schools programme and the Building Schools for the Future Programme and the significant housing developments scheduled during the strategy period.
4.10 School sites are frequently unable to offer the same opportunities as other pitches because many do not have separate changing facilities and pitch hire is frequently subject to school holidays. Furthermore, there is a cost to schools to open up their sites and this must be recouped through any fees payable for the use of the pitch. While many schools in Sandwell raised issues regarding the cost to the school and the increased reliance on the caretaker to open facilities as barriers to community use, almost all responding schools highlighted the poor quality of their facilities (particularly drainage) and the likely impact that additional use of these facilities would have on the pitches as the key barrier to permitting community use. 50% of responding schools indicated that the overall quality of their facilities is good, while 44% felt their facilities were poor. 34% of schools indicated that they plan to expand / improve their facilities in future years.
4.11 Five schools indicated that they would consider allowing access to facilities for community use, although many were keen to understand the benefits to the school in doing so. Burnt Tree Primary School indicated that they are particularly keen to build a relationship with a local club and have held discussions with Tipton Town Juniors. Temple Meadow Primary School also expressed desire to open facilities to the community.
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4.12 As a result of the reasons highlighted above, and the fact that midweek curriculum use significantly reduces the capacity of pitches, those school pitches currently used by the community have been considered able to sustain one community game per week.
4.13 Of the 259 pitches identified, 175 (67%) are secured for use by the local community. As demonstrated in Table 4.3 below, 67% is high in comparison to some other authorities (selected from a sample of studies undertaken by PMP). Schools that are used by the community but have no formal agreement are not included within the 67%.
Table 4.3 - Percentage of secured community pitches in other Local Authorities
Local Authority % of pitches secured for community use Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council 44% Derwentside District Council 47% South Ribble Borough Council 47% St Albans City and District Council 49% Halton Borough Council 54% Mid Devon District Council 57% Maidstone Borough Council 61% Swindon Borough Council 64% Kirklees Metropolitan Borough Council 64% Worcestershire County 66% Sandwell Borough Council 67% South Somerset District Council 69% Croydon 72% Wolverhampton City Council 73% North Lincolnshire Council 77%
Location of pitches
4.14 The location of the existing pitches in Sandwell has been considered, using the geographical areas defined in Section 1. For reference purposes, these areas are illustrated again in map 4.1 overleaf.
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Map 4.1 – Analysis areas in Sandwell
TO BE INSERTED
4.15 Table 4.4 below illustrates the area of playing pitches available for community use in each area (excluding the synthetic pitches) and the proportion of the total pitches available. These figures measure the pitch area only (as opposed to the whole site) and assume that all pitches meet NPFA size criteria).
Table 4.4 – Distribution of pitches in Sandwell Borough
Total Total playing % of playing playing pitch area pitch area pitch with secured with secured area community community (ha) use (ha) use
Sub-area Tipton 23.76 18.04 75.9% Wednesbury 35.34 23.02 65.1% West Bromwich 50.24 24.90 49.6% Rowley Regis 23.02 11.90 51.7% Oldbury 53.86 36.10 67.0% Smethwick 32.20 25.52 79.3% Total 218.42 139.48 63.9%
4.16 Whilst West Bromwich contains the second largest overall quantity of pitches, it contains the lowest percentage of playing pitch area with secured community use (49.6% of the total area). Oldbury contains the highest level of provision, although the proportion secured for community use is also lower than in other areas.
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4.17 In contrast, there are only 23 hectares of pitches in the Tipton and Rowley Regis areas. Furthermore, only 51% of this area is secured for community use in Rowley Regis. This level of provision is significantly lower than all other areas of the borough.
4.18 The highest proportion of pitch area secured for community use can be seen in the Smethwick area. In the region of 70% of all pitch area within Sandwell Borough is dedicated to football provision, reflecting the popularity of football in relation to the other pitch sports under consideration.
4.19 Sandwell Borough Council are key providers of pitches across the borough, providing a number of key sites dedicated primarily to football. Over half of all pitches provided are located at school sites, emphasising the role that the school estate can play in meeting the needs of local communities.
Quality of pitch and ancillary facilities
4.20 As stated in “Towards a Level Playing Field”, pitch quality is a key issue. Perceived quality of pitches (and ancillary facilities) is almost as important as actual quality as it can heavily influence the pattern of play.
4.21 Quality of pitches in Sandwell was assessed through site visits, analysis of cancellations and consideration of user perceptions.
4.22 Site visits assess the degree to which the sports pitch site is fit for purpose. An assessment matrix (Appendix D) was used to assess the overall site and the quality of the pitches and ancillary facilities where available. The key community use sites across Sandwell have been assessed, including all sites maintained by the Council. It is important to note that the assessments are a snap shot in time and therefore any natural influences such as the weather may affect the quality of the pitches.
4.23 Site specific improvements will be covered in Section 6, and full details of the analysis for each pitch will be provided in appendix E. Key issues emerging from site visits included:
• there is substantial variation in the quality of pitches across Sandwell, with evidence of significant investment in draining and adequate changing facilities at some facilities. This is reflected in the findings of the site assessments, with 32% of sites perceived to have good quality changing accommodation.
• consultation revealed that there is perceived to be a difference in the quality of the pitches in the north and south of the borough. While pitches in the north of the borough have received limited investment, there has been a significant increase in the quality of pitches in the south. The site visits reinforce this perception with pitches located within the Smethwick area being the flattest in Sandwell.
• in general, pitches in Sandwell were perceived to suffer from litter problems. Parking was considered to be good at 60% of the sites, but poor at 27%
• it was noted that the majority of pitches would benefit from further maintenance such as painting of goal posts. The site assessments showed that whilst the majority of sites have no evidence of vandalism (58% of sites), a significant amount (31%) had some evidence of vandalism.
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• facilities at KGV, the central venue for the minor league, are highly regarded and there is significant space for expansion to accommodate extra teams if required. A Football Foundation application is under consideration for further improvements to this site.
4.24 Full site assessments for all pitches visited can be found in appendix E.
4.25 Site visits were supplemented through consultation. Key issues emerging from visits and consultations at the Council managed venues include:
• Barnford Park – facilities at this location have undergone a substantial programme of improvement, having been re levelled and drained. • Cakemore Playing Fields – whilst pitches at this site have also been re-levelled and partially drained, it is evident that they can cut up very badly. • Hydes Road Playing Fields – issues at this site relate the pitch levels. • Jubilee Park – despite the lack of drainage work in this locality, the pitches are considered to be good quality. • Lion Farm – a number of pitches at this site have been closed due to drainage problems, with ongoing water logging problems at the others. There are further issues regarding the parking at this site. • Redhouse Park – the dressing rooms at this facility are considered to be of very poor quality. There are concerns that a large training school is run at this facility which is in conflict with the requirements of local leagues. • Tividale Park – issues relating to waterlogging at one of the sites. Draining work is underway on 2 of the remaining pitches. • Victoria Park (Smethwick) – the site has recently been redrained. • Londonderry Playing Fields – a high quality site, each pitch has full-netted goals which are well maintained and show no signs of rust, the line markings are also deemed to be of a high standard because they are white and clearly visible.
Demand: pitch sport clubs in Sandwell
4.26 Table 4.5 below illustrates the clubs and teams for football, cricket, hockey and rugby union currently playing in Sandwell. A full list of teams can be found in Appendix F.
Table 4.5 – The spread of teams across Sandwell
Sport Number of clubs Number of teams Football 185 319 Cricket 16 47 Rugby Union 2 11 Hockey 3 13 Total 206 390
4.27 Of the 390 teams currently playing within Sandwell Borough, 82% are playing football. In depth analysis of participation in football in the borough in comparison to participation in
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2001 highlights a decline in the participation in the adult game, contrasting with increases in the number of junior and mini football teams. Over 50% of all football teams in Sandwell are now junior or mini teams. This trend is reflective of the national trends.
4.28 The number of cricket teams within Sandwell is declining. Despite this, some league secretaries stated that leagues could sustain a lot more teams, however the level of participation is undermined by the quality of pitches. Cricket is growing in popularity amongst the ethnic minority population although participation is inhibited by a lack of appropriate facilities. In light of the potential demand for cricket, the improvement of cricket facilities within the borough provides a key opportunity to increase participation, particularly amongst under represented groups.
4.29 Although there are only two and three clubs playing rugby and hockey in the borough respectively, all of these clubs are strong clubs, evident by the number of clubs that these teams are producing. As rugby and hockey participation is focused around the key clubs and the development opportunities these clubs offer, residents living in all areas of the borough therefore travel to the home venues of these clubs.
4.30 The key issues in terms of participation, facilities used, issues experienced by clubs and development opportunities are summarised in tables 4.6 – 4.9 overleaf.
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Table 4.6 Football in Sandwell
Membership Football is the most popular team sport in terms of participation in Sandwell with a total of 319 teams playing across the borough. In line with national trends, these teams are predominantly male (5 female teams). The balance of teams is slightly skewed towards junior football, with 57% of teams in the borough playing either junior or mini football. 46% of clubs in the borough have seen their club membership grow over the last 5 years. Both large adult football leagues indicated that there has been a decline in the membership of their leagues, with the Sandwell Premier league declining from 180 teams to 62. In contrast, participation in youth and minor football has increased. It is evident that there are few clubs with opportunities for progression from junior football to adult football. This issue was also raised through consultation and identified as a key target for the future improvement of the delivery of football. Limited participation in football in primary schools is also a key barrier to the growth in participation across Sandwell. Despite this, there are a number of large clubs across the borough, including Tipton Town FC, Bustlehome Boys FC and Hilltop Rangers. Bustlehome Boys operate teams from grass roots levels up to semi professional. Bustleholme, Tipton and Hilltop have all obtained FA charter standard. There are good links with the Birmingham FA. Standard of play There are two main leagues for adult football across Sandwell – The Sandwell Premier league, focused predominantly in the north of the borough and the Warley Sunday League, playing primarily in the South. Sandwell Premier League contains three divisions, the premier and district and divisions one and two. Warley Sunday league runs eight divisions catering for teams playing at a wide range of standards. Several teams also play within the Birmingham and District Amateur League. The majority of youth teams play within the Bilston Youth Partnership League which encompasses teams from across the Black Country. The Sandwell Minor League was set up in 2005 and has increased in popularity with 36 teams participating this year. This league provides opportunities for young people to participate in grass roots football. The philosophy of this league is fun and encouraging participation. The knock on effect of participation at a young age is also evident, with several young teams approaching the Sandwell league over the last three seasons. West Bromwich Albion FC play the highest standard football in the borough, in the nationwide championship. The team is currently challenging for promotion and a return to the premiership. WBA also play a key role in the delivery of grass roots football across the borough, providing community schemes across the borough. The Hat Trick Project, run by WBA, looks to engage people in football and focus participants on sport rather than other diversionary activities.
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Facilities used The local authority is one of the key providers of football pitches with the majority of teams using these facilities. Greets Green Recreation Ground, Hydes Road Recreation Ground, Redhouse Park, Charlemont Farm, Thimblemill Recreation Ground and Lion Farm (Birchley Playing Fields) are the largest local authority grounds in the borough. Greets Green Recreation Ground is currently being considered for improvements as part of the housing market renewal 2007. In addition to some privately owned / managed sports clubs, there are also a number of schools permitting community access to their facilities. Many of the Council managed facilities serve a dual purpose as they are located in parks and are perceived as a recreational and informal resource for the local community. Minor soccer is played predominantly at King George V on Sunday mornings. This is a highly regarded site and there is significant space for expansion to accommodate the extra teams if required. A Football Foundation application is under consideration for further improvements to this site. While adult teams highlight that pitch provision in quantitative terms is sufficient to meet demand, representatives of the Bilston Youth Partnership League suggest that teams experience difficulties in accessing facilities. All Sandwell Teams playing at Under 10 level travel to East Park in Wolverhampton in order to access facilities.
Issues and constraints The main issues raised by clubs and league secretaries focused on the quality of pitch provision in Sandwell, with the only constraints arising from the quantity of pitches relating to the provision of junior facilities across the borough. Those highlighted include: • there is a perceived difference in quality between pitches in the north and south of the borough. While pitches in the north of the borough have received limited investment, there has been a significant increase in the quality of pitches in the south. 42% of respondents to the questionnaire indicated that pitch provision had deteriorated in recent years, while 27% suggested it had improved • pitches in the north are perceived to be poor quality, with key issues including poor maintenance (specifically line marking, grass cutting and pot holes) and inadequate ancillary accommodation • despite this, of all football clubs responding to the survey, only 32% felt pitch quality was poor overall, while 26% perceived it to be good. Drainage of pitches was highlighted as the key issue, with 55% of clubs suggesting this was poor. In contrast to findings of other consultations, 45% of clubs indicated that the quality of changing facilities was good, although issues surrounding the provision of showers were expressed. The evenness of the pitch and bounce of the ball were perceived to be acceptable. Some issues were raised regarding the length of the grass and line markings, reflecting concerns expressed through other consultation means. • Redhouse Park (good pitches, poor changing rooms) and Friar Park (insufficient changing facilities to
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cater for the number of pitches) were highlighted as particular issues. While some clubs use facilities at school sites, on the whole there is limited use of these facilities as there are significant barriers including restrictions on opening times and reliance on the school caretakers as highlighted previously. • pitches are perceived to be poor value of money, not just as a result of the poor quality of facilities but also because of the blanket charge for 15 home games per season (Sandwell League), regardless of the number of matches actually played. This was reflected by clubs responding to the survey, with 59% indicating that pitches are poor value for money. Only 40% of clubs would be willing to pay more if the additional income was invested back into pitches. Fees and charges for pitch hire will increase by a further 16% in April. A cost comparison with other West Midlands authorities is set out in Section 6. • a number of junior teams are playing outside of their local area as there are insufficient junior pitches to meet demand. Full details of the perceived quality of facilities is set out in the progress report in appendix B. Other issues raised by clubs include: • many clubs suffer from a lack of internal and external funding • there are perceived to be insufficient appropriate training facilities. Many clubs highlighted that training on pitches is leading to deterioration of the overall quality of facilities across the borough. • as highlighted above, costs are felt to be prohibitive, particularly to junior teams wishing to hire out facilities • some clubs expressed issues surrounding the leasing of pitches, indicating that they would like a greater degree of control of their own pitch. Other issues raised Differences in opinions regarding support offered by volunteers were evident, with junior and adult teams indicating that there are numerous volunteers for coaching across the borough. Despite this, a lack of volunteers to drive the management of the Sandwell Borough Minor League has resulted in an emphasis on the Sandwell Leisure Trust to continue to operate this league. Consultation highlights that the cancellation process is perceived to have improved in recent seasons, and league secretaries continue to feel that cancellation by the referee following pitch inspections remains the most appropriate method. The pitch booking and pitch allocation system was also highlighted by league secretaries to be efficient.
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Table 4.7 Cricket in Sandwell Membership There are four key clubs playing across Sandwell Borough at the current time, specifically Old Hill Cricket Club, West Bromwich Dartmouth, Smethwick Cricket Club and Wednesbury Cricket Club. Wednesbury Cricket Club is over 125 years old and is part of the Wednesbury Sports Union which consists of cricket, hockey, junior football, tennis and table tennis. There are a further 12 clubs playing primarily at Council managed venues across the borough and participation in cricket across Sandwell totals 47 teams.
There is a high participation in cricket from people of ethnic minorities, a group which traditionally play less sport. Provision for cricket therefore presents significant opportunities to grow participation across Sandwell MBC. Consultation with the ECB highlights a growth in junior participation in recent years.
An indoor cricket league also operates in Sandwell from November to late March and contains three divisions of six teams. The presence of this league may impact on the deamnd for training facilities out of season and provides opportunities for teams to participate during the off season.
Standard of Play Teams from the four key clubs play primarily in the Birmingham and District Leagues, and the Staffordshire and West Midlands Youth Leagues. The presence of 1st, 2nd and 3rd teams, alongside youth teams offer opportunities for players of all standards. West Bromwich Dartmouth are the highest standard team from Sandwell within the Birmingham and District league, playing in the premier division. Old Hill also has one team competing in the premier division of this league. The more informal teams play in Sandwell Cricket League, a league that contains twelve teams. Facilities used The four key clubs have private facilities which accommodate the majority of play by teams at these clubs. Despite this, consultation has indicated that some juniors stuggle to access facilities at the site and use facilities at other venues. Teams participating in the Sandwell Premier league play at Council venues across the borough, specifically Hydes Road Playing Fields, Barnford Park, Redhouse Park, Victoria Park (Tipton), Victoria Park (Smethwich) and West Smethwick Park.
Additional wickets have been installed within the borough over the last few years in order to accommodate the demand from nomadic cricket clubs. Despite this, the specialist maintenance requirements of these facilities poses problems in terms of the overall cost. Some clubs highlighted that a lack of appropriate faciltities constraints demand.
The Sandwell League has now been running for fifteen years and operates from Tipton Sports Academy, Wednesbury Oak Road, Tipton, West Midlands on Saturdays during the off season.
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Issues and constraints Consultation highlighted a lack of facilities in schools across the borough dedicated to cricket. While the ECB would like to develop cricket a grass roots level, a lack of facilities inhibits this growth and to the future development of cricket. Despite this, a recent focus on Kwik cricket in schools should see an increase in participation in club cricket in the near future.
The Sandwell Cricket League highlighted the quality of pitches as the key barrier to increasing participation, stating that the league could sustain a lot more teams of the quality of pitches was to improve and more facilities were provided. West Smethwick Park was illustrated as an example, containing two 2 pitches, but with space to fit a further two pitches on if the remaining wickets were usable. It was highlighted that several injuries occurred due to poor quality pitches last season. Many of the quality issues were perceived to stem from the collocation of football and cricket pitches on the same site.
Similar to clubs using private facilities, the league also cited a lack of facilities available for juniors as a key constraint to the further development of cricket. Wednesbury Cricket Club indicated that they are looking to develop a female team, but a lack of facilities of appropriate quality constrains this at the current time.
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Table 4.8 Rugby in Sandwell
Membership There are two rugby union clubs playing within Sandwelll, specifically Warley RUFC and Wednesbury RUFC. In total, the clubs run 11 teams ranging from adult to mini teams. Both clubs have strong links with the RFU. Standard of Play Both Wednesbury and Warley RUFC play in the midlands leagues (Division 3 and 6 respectively). As both clubs run 1st, 2nd and 3rd teams there are significant opportunities for players of different standards to participate.
Training is also run for junior teams on a weekly basis and competitive matches are played at weekends. Facilities used Both rugby clubs in Sandwell MBC are based at private grounds in Warley and Wednesbury. While there remain issues in terms of the quality of facilities at the current time, plans for development which are already underway will see improvements to the quality of facilities and will ensure that the sites are sufficient to sustain the needs of the club in the short term.
Wednesbury RUFC is currently receiving funding from the RFU to improve the existing changing facilities on the site through the Community Development Fund scheme although for this essential work to progress the club requires an additional 2 years on the lease of the existing facilities. Despite these improvements, the facilities at the clubs home ground continue to suffer from poor maintenance coupled with overuse, indicating that facilities are poor. The RFU Staffordshire investment plan schedules improvements to these sites as medium to high priority.
Warley RUFC is also starting to expand further and have only recently started to run a junior section. Despite match facilities currently being of sufficient quality, there are few opportunities for training and a 3g training facility for this club with floodlights has been identified as a priority across the midlands. Issues and constraints The RFU focuses the majority of efforts towards club development, taking a strategic approach across the West Midlands as a whole in addition to within each specific local authority. While much of the RFU work focuses on the development of facilities to support clubs, the Governing body is also keen to work improve opportunities for rugby in conjunction with schools. Provision of third generation pitches at school sites provides opportunities for training and alleviates pressure on match pitches, in addition to providing opportunities for coach education. It is anticipated that significant growth in participation in rugby can be achieved through increased participation in schools.
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Table 4.9 Hockey in Sandwell
Membership There are three hockey clubs playing in Sandwell at the current time, specifically West Bromwich HC, West Bromwich Ladies HC and Wednesbury Hockey Club. These clubs run a total of 13 teams across the borough, only three of which are junior teams.
Participation across the borough is varying, membership static at Wednesbury, increasing participation in West Bromwich and declining numbers at West Bromwich Ladies.
There is significant cross border travel, with only 35% of members of Wednesbury Hockey Club living in Sandwell and 50% of West Bromwich Ladies from Sandwell Borough. This highlights a willingness to travel to reach facilities for hockey. Standard of Play Both Wednesbury and West Bromwich play in the West Midlands Premier League, other leagues run through the Midlands Hockey Association. As all clubs offer a variety of teams, players of differing standards are welcome in the clubs and have the opportunity to participate in competitive fixtures. Facilities used Both sections of West Bromwich HC currently use the synthetic pitch at George Salter High School as their main match venue. The facility at Tividale High School is also used as an overspill pitch for West Bromwich Hockey Club.
In contrast, Wednesbury Hockey Club are forced to travel outside of Sandwell Borough to play, highlighting that there are no facilities to meet their needs, and that facilities in Tipton are of insufficient quality. Issues and constraints West Bromwich Hockey Club are working to increase participation specifically in hockey, and in physical activity generally across the borough as part of the Greets Green Active Lifestyles project by running training sessions for young people in the area, regardless of their ability or experience of hockey. Such taster sessions may increase participation in hockey in these age groups.
Clubs highlight that a lack of appropriate facilities is the key barrier to further development, particularly as some players are forced to travel outside of the local area. Hockey has traditionally been played at social clubs, where players are able to socialise after matches at the clubhouse. A lack of suitable facilities in the area inhibits the development of this atmosphere.
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Summary 4.31 The key issues emerging from supply and demand data detailed in section 4 can be summarised as:
• there are 259 playing pitches in Sandwell Borough. Of these pitches, 66% are full size adult football, cricket, rugby and hockey pitches. This equates to circa one pitch for every 1,259 adults – which is lower than the national average in 1991 and compares unfavourably to many other authorities for which informal data is currently available. • of the pitches identified, 67% are secured for use by the local community – which is high in comparison to some other authorities. In addition to this, there are five schools that have expressed a strong desire to forge links with local community clubs. • there is perceived to be a difference in the quality of pitches in the north and south of the Borough. While pitches in the north of the borough have received limited investment, there has been a significant increase in the quality of pitches in the south. The site visits reinforce this perception with pitches located within the Smethwick area being the flattest in Sandwell. • in terms of vandalism, 58% of the sites showed no signs at all. The remaining 42% were predominantly credited to graffiti, litter and general waste.
• overall, evenness and slope of the pitches (gradient and cross fall) was found to be good. With regards to goals on football pitches, they were found to be safe and sturdy although the majority were in need of painting.
• the increasing levels of participation are generating significant facility implications which are likely to increase further in future years. The growth of female sport, particularly football and rugby also generates facility implications. Mini sport is seeing particular increases at the current time.
4.32 The supply and demand data contained in this section will be set in context by applying the Playing Pitch Methodology in Section 5.
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The Playing Pitch Methodology: findings for Sandwell
5.1 The Playing Pitch Methodology (PPM) comprises eight stages. Stages 1 to 6 involve numerical calculations, whilst Stages 7 and 8 develop issues and solutions. The methodology is employed to analyse the adequacy of current provision and to assess possible future situations, in order that latent and future demand (identified through Team Generation Rates), and the problems with quality, use and capacity of existing pitches can be taken into account.
Flow-chart to illustrate the key stages:
Stage 1 Identifying teams
Stage 2 Calculating home games per team per week
Stage 3 Assessing total home games per week
Stage 4 Establishing temporal demand for games
Stage 5 Defining pitches used/required on each day
Stage 6 Establishing pitches available (allowance for qualitative issues)
Stage 7 Assessing the findings
Stage 8 Finding solutions
5.2 It is implicit to the methodology that each sport is dealt with individually with a specific set of calculations for each because, despite some superficial similarities, they exhibit very different patterns of play.
5.3 We have further subdivided the analysis of some sports to deal with specific sub- sectors of activity within them, e.g. junior play or adult play, in order that important aspects are not submerged in aggregated data. Football and rugby have been subdivided in this manner, whereas no differentiation has been made between junior and senior cricket and junior and senior hockey teams as they play on pitches of similar dimensions.
5.4 As the playing pitch strategy is a peak day model, we have determined on which day teams / leagues wish to play their fixtures at the peak time.
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Carrying capacity
5.5 The methodology set out Towards A Level Playing Field allows authorities to take into account carrying capacity (i.e. the number of games that pitches are adequately able to sustain per week) when calculating the playing pitch methodology.
5.6 There is no formula for calculating the carrying capacity of pitches, as it is dependent on a wide range of factors such as weather conditions, age/weight of users, quality of players etc. However, through local knowledge, user surveys, site visits, interviews and an analysis of usage patterns from the previous season, it is possible to consider the approximate capacity of each pitch.
5.7 In calculating the carrying capacity of a pitch, the following should be considered:
• what proportion of games are cancelled on the pitch due to poor pitch condition? • is the condition of the pitch declining over the season? • what is the maintenance regime for the pitch at present? • could the capacity of the pitch be improved by enhanced maintenance? • to what extent are pitches required to accommodate training activity?
5.8 In addition to considering the degree to which pitches meet existing demand, it is important to take into account the provision of the long-term life of pitches. The importance of rest and recovery of pitches should not be underestimated in order to maintain pitch quality and to prevent the longer-term deterioration as a result of constant use.
5.9 The playing pitch methodology calculations therefore take into account the perceived carrying capacity of pitches. The weighting system used and the resulting audits are outlined in Table 5.1. The standard PPM assumes that pitches are able to take 2 games per week, Sport England’s recommendation. If in reality, it is only able to carry one, it is considered to be only half a pitch – able to take one game per week.
Table 5.1 – Carrying capacity for each type of pitch
Carrying Capacity Multiplication Factor Three matches (or more) per week 1.5 Two matches 1.0 One match per week 0.5 One match or less per fortnight 0.25
5.10 As discussed in section 4, a number of school facilities in Sandwell are available for community use at weekends and there is significant use of some school sites, particularly from junior teams. In light of the demands placed on the pitches as a result of curriculum pressures and the heavy use of pitches by pupils, facilities at schools have been considered able to take only one community game per week. This is not a reflection on pitch quality, but reflects the fact that use by school pupils is equivalent to use by community teams.
5.11 Synthetic hockey pitches are not affected by the conditions discussed above as wear and tear on these pitches does not occur to the same degree as grass. These pitches have therefore been considered able to take three games per week. This will however depend on flexible programming of matches to ensure this is feasible.
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Grass hockey pitches are no longer used for competitive senior matches and have therefore been excluded.
5.12 Sport England currently recommends two games per week on Council owned pitches. This should be considered the optimum usage. Increasing the number of games each pitch takes per week reduces the overall number of pitches required. Pitches where specialist drainage has been installed may be able to sustain more games per week without the deterioration in quality experienced at most sites.
5.13 Current Council booking procedures allocate pitches to teams each week, ensuring that any poor quality pitches are rested if possible. Pitch allocations are made to 2 major leagues, and then individual teams are incorporated around what else is available. At the present time, the vast majority of teams prefer Sunday morning kick offs and this dominates the bookings. The Council are currently looking to condense play on Saturdays and Sunday afternoons to ensure better management of facilities and ensure that a reduced stock of facilities is available.
5.14 Some sites in Sandwell experience constant quality issues and the carrying capacity has therefore been reduced at these sites in order to reflect the reduced level of play possible:
• Cakemore – it is considered necessary to reduce the carrying capacity at this site because the pitches can deteriorate very quickly.
• Lion Farm – it is considered necessary to reduce the carrying capacity at this site due to drainage issues. Two pitches at this site are closed permanently due to drainage issues and have therefore been excluded from calculations. There are ongoing drainage problems on the other adult pitches.
5.15 Further issues regarding quality; and the adequacy of changing provision at some sites will be discussed in more detail in section six.
5.16 PPM calculations take into account only those pitches that are secured for community use, in line with Sport England guidance. There are a further 17 schools permitting informal community use. While these are not included in the calculations they will be returned to later in section six.
5.17 Table 5.2 overleaf shows the calculations undertaken to determine the surplus/deficit of pitches in Sandwell. One STP is considered to be able to sustain 6 games per week for the purposes of calculation of the PPM.
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Table 5.2 - PPM calculations for Sandwell Borough Council (2007)
Football Mini-soccer Cricket Rugby Union Hockey
STAGE ONE Adult games 140 29 6 10 50 Identifying teams Junior teams 129 18 5 3 STAGE TWO Adult games 0.5 0.7 0.5 0.5 0.5 Calculate home games per week Junior teams 0.5 0.7 0.5 0.5 STAGE THREE (S1x S2) Adult games 70 20 3 5 25 Assessing total home games per week Junior teams 65 13 3 2 STAGE FOUR Adult games 20% 0% 0% 0% Saturday AM 0% Junior teams 20% 0% 0% 0% Adult games 0% 60% 100% 100% Saturday PM 0% Junior teams 0% 100% 0% 0% Adult games 80% 0% 0% 0% Sunday AM 100% Establish temporal demand for Junior teams 80% 0% 0% 0% pitches Adult games 0% 0% 0% 0% Sunday PM 0% Junior teams 0% 0% 100% 100%
Mid week 1- Specify Adult games 0% 40% 0% 0% 0% day Junior teams 0% 0% 0% 0% Mid week 2- Specify Adult games 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% day Junior teams 0% 0% 0% 0% STAGE FIVE (S3 x S4) Adult games 14 0 0 0 Saturday AM 0 Junior teams 13 000 Adult games 0 12 3 5 Saturday PM 0 Junior teams 0 13 0 0 Defining pitches used each day Adult games 56 0 0 0 Sunday AM 25 Junior teams 52 000 Adult games 0 0 0 0 Sunday PM 0 Junior teams 0 032 Mid week 1- Specify Adult games 0 8 0 0 day 0 Junior teams 0 000 Mid week 2- Specify Adult games 0 0 0 0 0 day Junior teams 0 000 STAGE SIX Adult games 103 4 30 18 11 Establishing pitches currently available Junior teams 10 0
STAGE SEVEN (S6-S5) Adult games 88.5 4.0 Saturday AM 30.0 18.0 10.5 Junior teams -2.9 0.0 Adult games 102.5 1.0 Saturday PM 30.0 -6.8 5.5 Junior teams 10.0 0.0 Adult games 46.5 4.0 Sunday AM 5.0 18.0 10.5 Identifying shortfall (-) and surplus Junior teams -41.6 0.0 (+) Adult games 102.5 4.0 Sunday PM 30.0 18.0 9.0 Junior teams 10.0 -2.5
Mid week 1- Specify Adult games 102.5 4.0 30.0 9.9 10.5 day Junior teams 10.0 0.0 102.5 4.0 Mid week 2- Specify Adult games 30.0 18.0 10.5 day 10.0 0.0 Junior teams Notes: 1. As per PPM guidance, it is assumed that all football, cricket and rugby teams play a home match every fortnight. However, for cricket teams it is assumed that many teams play home matches more than every fortnight (ie mid-week matches), hence the figure of 0.7. 2. Determined by a combination of questionnaire responses, telephone interviews and discussions with league secretaries. Figures are approximate and it is acknowledged that these may change weekly. 3. The figures highlighted in Red or Green represent the peak-day demand.
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5.18 Table 5.1 overleaf highlights that the majority of demand for pitches is on a Sunday morning. As a result of the high proportion of demand on the peak day, there remain large quantities of pitches available on other days of the week.
5.19 Key issues arising from the PPM Calculations (Table 5.2) are:
• the over-supply of full-size adult football pitches (46.5) on peak day (Sundays) indicates that, in theory, senior football is currently well provided for in Sandwell and there are sufficient pitches to accommodate the required number of matches • the under-supply of junior football pitches (-41.6) on peak days (Sundays) indicates that junior pitches are currently being overused or junior teams are playing on full sized pitches. This suggests that there are high pressures on junior pitches and that teams may be displaced across the Borough. • there is an over-supply of mini-football pitches (5) on peak days (Sunday) indicating that there are sufficient pitches to accommodate the required number of matches at the current time • there is an under-supply of cricket pitches (-7.3) on peak days (Saturday). It can be seen that there is also demand from teams for midweek and Sunday play suggesting that in addition to the shortfall on a Saturday, in some instances these facilities may be required at least three times per week. • there is an over-supply of adult rugby union pitches (4) on peak days (Sunday).
Analysing provision in Sandwell in more detail 5.20 Analysing pitch provision in Sandwell as a whole disguises the patterns of supply and demand within different geographical areas.
5.21 For pitch sports there is an acceptance that there will be a requirement for players to travel to games. Despite this, there is a public expectation that local facilities will be provided wherever possible. Local facilities and / or efficient public transport networks are vital in particular for junior pitches, as players are unable to travel to matches themselves. Consideration of provision in the separate analysis areas is set out below. Recommendations and solutions are discussed in section 6.
5.22 The expectation for local facilities is particularly apparent for football and cricket. Several teams (both football and cricket) indicated that a lack of pitches of suitable quality forces them to travel outside the borough to use facilities. This represents displaced demand and will be returned to later.
5.23 Table 5.3 overleaf reveals the shortfall/surplus by each area. Negative numbers indicate a shortfall of provision and are highlighted in red. Details on shortfalls and surpluses by ward can be found in Appendix G.
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Table 5.3 - Summary of PPM results by area
Sub-area name Shortfall of adult football Shortfall of junior football Shortfall of Mini-soccer Shortfall of cricket Shortfall of adult rugby union Shortfall of junior rugby union Shortfall of adult rugby league Shortfall of junior rugby league Shortfall of hockey Total pitches Tipton 0.0 -1.2 -0.5 3.2 1.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 4.5 7.0 Wednesbury 10.2 -8.6 2.0 -3.6 0.0 -1.0 0.0 0.0 -2.5 -3.5 West Bromwich 15.8 -6.8 3.5 -0.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 12.2 Rowley Regis 3.1 -6.2 -1.0 -6.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 -10.4 Oldbury 10.6 -10.8 1.0 3.2 0.0 -1.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.5 Smethwick 6.8 -8.0 0.0 -3.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.0 -1.6 46.5 -41.6 5.0 -7.8 1.0 -2.5 0.0 0.0 5.5
5.24 Analysis of the information presented in Table 5.3 suggests that:
• there are overall shortfalls of pitch provision in three of the six geographical areas with Oldbury, Tipton and West Bromwich clusters having sufficient overall supply to meet demand • despite the overall shortfalls, all areas contain sufficient adult football pitches to meet demand, with oversupplies in Wednesbury, Oldbury and West Bromwich areas exceeding ten pitches. The proposed changes to the layout at Greets Green Recreation Ground would reduce the surplus of adult pitches in West Bromwich by 3 pitches. This will be discussed in more detail in section 6. • in contrast to the surpluses of adult pitches, there are shortfalls of junior provision in all areas of the borough. The overall shortfall of junior pitches almost exceeds the surplus of adult pitches. • similar to junior football, there are high pressures on mini football pitches, with a shortfall of pitches in two areas. In all other areas the level of provision is adequate to meet current demand. Indeed most mini soccer is concentrated at KGV in West Bromwich. • like football, it is evident that there are pressures on cricket pitches to meet demand on the peak day. The greatest pressures are located in Wednesbury and Smethwick areas, where there are shortfalls equivalent to almost four pitches.
5.25 While the above analysis provides an indication of the ability of pitches to meet existing demand, it does not consider potential latent demand. Where there are not facilities, teams are not able to play in an area.
Predicting the future Team Generation Rates
5.26 Team Generation Rates (TGRs) indicate how many people in a specified age group are required to generate one team. TGRs are derived by dividing the appropriate
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population age band in the area by the number of teams playing within that area in that age band. Calculating TGRs enables fair comparison of participation to be made between different areas where similar studies have been undertaken.
5.27 TGRs can be calculated for each of the individual disciplines, eg adult men’s football, adult women’s football, mini-soccer. Once these TGRs have been calculated, they can be brought together to form one TGR for each sport.
5.28 The TGRs for football, cricket, rugby and hockey in Sandwell Borough are shown in Table 5.6 to 5.8, and are compared to the national average based on the Sport England database of Playing Pitch Strategy information as at October 2004. These remain the most up to date figures on the Sport England website for comparative purposes. Team Generation Rates for Sandwell should be submitted to Sport England for inclusion in this database.
5.29 The following examples help clarify what TGRs mean:
1:100 Î high TGR Î relatively low latent (unmet) demand 1: 1000 Î low TGR Î relatively high latent (unmet) demand
5.30 These figures are only a guide and do not specify the sport or refer to local conditions. For example, the national popularity of football will mean that it will almost always have the lowest TGR. Equally, hockey usually has the highest. Therefore, it is more useful to compare Sandwell with other areas.
5.31 Table 5.4 indicates that participation in football in Sandwell is below the national average in relation to all different age groups and genders. This reflects the findings of the Active People survey; where participation in Sandwell is significantly below national averages.
Table 5.4 - Football Team Generation Rates
Age group Sandwell TGR National1 Average Senior male 1:423 1:314 Senior female 1:14,397 1:10,593 Junior male 1:92 1:71 Junior female 1:5,855 1:818 Mini-soccer 1:329 1:141 Overall average (excluding mini 1:515 soccer)
5.32 The team generation rates for rugby union (senior and junior male) in Sandwell are similar to the national average, indicating a good level of participation in the borough. This is exhibited in table 5.5 below.
Table 5.5 - Rugby Union Team Generation Rates
Age group Sandwell TGR National Average Senior male 1:10,795 1:10,315
1 The National Average TGR for Football have been collected by the FA through the County Administration System (CAS) and refers to the number of affiliated football members as of September 2006
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Senior female 0 1:43,770 Junior male 1:876 1:1,864 Junior female 0 1:19,529 Overall average 1:5875
5.33 Analysis of team generation rates for hockey indicates that levels of adult participation are above average the national average for males but below the national average for females. Participation in junior hockey is below the national average. Hockey team generation rates are set out below.
5.34 Table 5.6 - Hockey Team Generation Rates
Age group Sandwell TGR National Average Senior male 1:7198 1:7,595 Senior female 1:28,793 1:10,292 Junior male 1:4864 1:4,239 Junior female 1:9729 1:5,115 Overall average 1:10356 1:2,376
5.35 Participation in cricket is above the national average for the adult game, however participation in junior cricket is significantly below national targets. This is perhaps reflective of consultation, which suggests the existence of poor quality and unsuitable facilities within the Borough. As an example, Wednesbury Cricket Club has to hire a ground in Walsall (Aston University) as it is considered that none of the pitches in Sandwell are of adequate standard (parks and school pitches are in very poor condition). Furthermore, it is felt that the number of pitches in Sandwell has reduced dramatically over recent years.
Table 5.7 - Cricket Team Generation Rates
Age group Sandwell TGR National Average Senior male 1:1285 1:1,333 Senior female 1:25,696 1:72,518 Junior male 1:2807 1:1,481 Junior female 0 1:15,926 Overall average 1:2,061
Football 5.36 Over recent years The FA, together with the County FAs and Local Football Partnerships, have been developing a robust system to accurately measure levels of affiliated participation across the Country. This system, known as CAS (County Administration System) produced the first set of data for the Season 05/06. The system accurately tracks how many people are taking part in affiliated football throughout the country and can be analysed down to a Local Authority level.
5.37 At present the approach adopted for identifying future need relies on a mix of local consultation, sports development targets, demographic trends, and a degree of benchmarking of TGRs. The data collected by the FA enables benchmarking across the country. This data has been used to provide an indication of participation in Sandwell in comparison to other city and service areas across the UK and areas in the West Midlands.
5.38 Unlike cricket, rugby and hockey, the FA data measures participation in terms of conversion rates. Conversion rates are defined as
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the percentage of the relevant population actively playing affiliated football
5.39 Conversion rates are calculated by dividing the number of teams by an assumed number of players per team (e.g. 15 players per 11-a-side team). This gives a figure for the total number of players and is then divided by the relevant population to provide the percentage of affiliated players within that relevant population.
5.40 From the analysis of these conversion rates, it is possible to determine which quartile the level of participation falls into and therefore identify potential opportunities to increase participation. Authorities falling into the top quartile are the highest performing authorities in terms of participation.
5.41 The target conversion rates for cities and services are set out below.
Table 5.8 – Target conversion rates for cities and services
Conversion % Small- Total Adult 11-a-side Youth 11-a-side Mini- sided - soccer adult Male Female Male Female Mixed Male Quartiles 0% 2.5% 0.0% 10.6% 0.4% 2.9% 0.0% 2.6% 25% 4.0% 0.1% 16.4% 1.1% 4.5% 0.5% 4.1% 50% 5.0% 0.1% 19.3% 1.7% 5.7% 2.8% 5.3% 75% 5.6% 0.2% 23.3% 2.7% 8.4% 7.4% 6.2% 100% 7.3% 0.4% 38.0% 7.4% 12.1% 20.7% 13.8%
5.42 Conversion rates for Sandwell BC and other areas in the West Midlands are set out in table 5.9 below:
Table 5.9 – Conversion rates for Sandwell and other areas in the West Midlands
Conversion % Small- Total Mini- sided - Adult 11-a-side Youth 11-a-side soccer adult Male Female Male Female Mixed Male Sandwell 5.10% 0.10% 23.10% 0.70% 4.00% 0.00% 4.10% Walsall 3.10% 0.20% 19.30% 1.00% 5.10% 0.00% 3.40% Wolverhampton 5.30% 0.10% 18.30% 2.20% 5.80% 3.00% 5.30% Dudley 3.30% 0.10% 18.40% 2.10% 7.70% 1.80% 4.30% Birmingham 3.00% 0.10% 10.90% 1.30% 3.30% 1.00% 2.80% Coventry 5.00% 0.00% 16.40% 2.50% 4.80% 0.10% 3.80%
5.43 As can be seen in table 5.10 above;
• West Midlands authorities as a whole are poor in terms of participation and the achievement of the target conversion rate. • participation in adult male football in Sandwell is the second highest of the selected West Midlands authorities behind Wolverhampton. This places Sandwell in the third quartile nationally.
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• participation in youth male football is the highest out of all the selected authorities across the West Midlands, furthermore it is the only authority in the sample to be in the third quartile • participation in mini soccer is amongst the lowest of the sample authorities, placing it in the bottom quartile alongside Birmingham.
5.44 Analysis of Team Generation Rates on the preceding pages highlights that participation by females is low in comparison to other areas of the country. This may be influenced by the proportion of residents of ethnic minority in Sandwell as well as by general participation trends. Should future sports development initiatives focus on breaking down barriers to involvement in sports for these groups, participation rates may rapidly increase.
5.45 Whilst the above conversion rates provide an indication of current participation, it is possible to use this data to assess latent demand. This will be returned to when assessing future pitch requirements later in this section.
Projecting the Future
5.46 By applying TGRs to the population projections for 2021, we can project the theoretical number of teams that would be generated over the next decade. This can then be applied to the PPM model to forecast the future shortfall of pitches; assuming the supply of pitches and capacity of pitches does not alter in the interim.
Sports development 5.47 Sandwell Leisure Trust – Sport Development Team offer support and assistance on the development opportunities in sport for individual, clubs, schools, voluntary organisations and community groups within Sandwell. They also coordinate and support with the provision of a wider range of outreach events, training courses and activity programmes.
5.48 Key areas of support include:
• Sport Provision – at Sandwell Leisure Trust and partner organisations facilities
• Funding Opportunities – for clubs, community groups and individuals
• Club Development – charter standards, coach education, sporting pathways
• Schools – After school clubs, sports days, training courses, club links
• Competitive Opportunities – Clubs, Black Country Youth Games, competitions, Active Sports
• Events – Race for life, Black Country Youth Games, Indoor Athletics and other competitions.
• Holiday Programmes – Leisure Centre based, community facilities and outreach programmes
• Sports Coaches – recruitment, training, placement, mentoring
• Training – Sport specific coaching, BT Tops, First Aid, equity, STA, CSLA, JSLA, child protection.
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5.49 Much of this support provides a grass routes opportunity to participate in sport as well as local competitive opportunities.
5.50 National Governing Bodies and the National Government have also identified specific targets for increasing participation, with increases up to the Olympics targeted at 1% per year.
5.51 It has been assumed for modelling purposes that there will be the following increases in participation over the next five years
• Football – 5%
• Mini Football – 5%
• Cricket – 5%
• Rugby Union 5%
• Hockey – 5%
5.52 The future PPM model is based on current team generation rates combined with future population figures and likely participation trends to predict future demand.
5.53 Current national and local agendas to increase health, physical activity and promotion in sport may have a significant increase on participation in pitch sports in future years and may impact on the overall demand for pitches. Provision of pitches will be critical to the achievement of the aims and objectives of the health agenda.
5.54 Modelling this change in future demand has the following affect on the results of the PPM (Table 5.10 below):
Table 5.10 - Summary of PPM results by analysis area for 2026
Total pitches
Sub-area name Shortfall of adult football Shortfall of junior football Shortfall of Mini-soccer Shortfall of cricket Shortfall of adult rugby union Shortfall of junior rugby union Shortfall of adult rugby league Shortfall of junior rugby league Shortfall of hockey Tipton -2.6 -3.6 -0.6 2.9 1.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 4.5 1.6 Wednesbury 7.7 -12.1 1.3 -5.9 -0.7 -1.4 0.0 0.0 -3.4 -14.6 West Bromwich 13.0 -10.2 -1.7 -1.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 -0.6 -0.6 Rowley Regis 0.8 -8.8 -2.1 -8.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 -18.9 Oldbury 4.3 -14.9 -1.0 2.9 -0.4 -2.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 -11.3 Smethwick 2.3 -11.2 -0.8 -5.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.0 -12.4 25.4 -60.9 -4.9 -15.9 -0.1 -3.5 0.0 0.0 3.6
5.55 As shown in Table 5.10, the demand for pitches is likely to increase significantly in light of population growth and projected increases in participation. Pressures on
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junior pitches and cricket pitches will continue to grow and by the end of the LDF period, it is likely that five of the six areas will have shortfalls of pitch provision.
Using FA benchmarking data to assess latent demand 5.56 While the above analysis is undertaken using the projected increases in participation for each sport, the benchmarking data provided by the Football Association provides an opportunity to add another level of the assessment of latent demand.
5.57 The FA are keen to continue to grow the game of football and recognising the different challenges that authorities face, the FA are keen to encourage and support all local authorities to achieve the conversion rate currently associated with the top quartile in their benchmarking group for each type of football and to plan the appropriate facilities for the delivery of this objective.
5.58 The benchmarking data therefore enables the calculation of latent demand through:
• dividing the relevant population by the targeted conversion percentage (ie 75th percentile level) for any type of football. This will provide details of the number of players required to achieve the targeted conversion percentage. • the current number of players is then subtracted from the targeted number of players to identify the latent demand.
5.59 Using the above policy criteria as a base, the latent demand in Sandwell is set out in table 5.11:
Table 5.11 – Latent Demand in Sandwell
Conversion Target LD LD % Quartile (players) (teams) Adult Male 5.1 5.6 232 15 Adult Female 0.1 0.2 63 4 Youth Male 23.1 23.3 17 1 Youth Female 0.7 2.7 173 12 Mini 4 8.4 499 50
5.60 It can be seen above that in order to meet the targets outlined by the FA, an additional 82 teams in total would be required; the majority of which would be mini football teams.
5.61 It can therefore be seen that significant latent demand can be considered to exist in Sandwell when comparing participation against that in other authorities.
5.62 If this level of growth was to occur and participation in Sandwell was to increase to meet the conversion rate targets (hence reducing latent demand); the playing pitch methodology calculations indicate that:
• surpluses of adult football would decrease from 45.5 to 37.9 pitches • shortfalls of youth pitches would rise from 45.6 to 50.8 pitches • a small surplus in mini football pitches (3) would become a shortfall of 22 pitches.
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5.63 There are therefore significant implications for the provision of football pitches in the Borough if participation was to increase. It is essential that planning to meet future demand is considered now in order to ensure that future participation is not constrained by a lack of facilities. This will be returned to in section 6.
5.64 Consideration should be given to the reasons behind the high levels of latent demand, in order to address the causes and facilitate future growth. Reasons behind this may include:
• a lack of facilities – there are current shortfalls of junior and mini pitches in the borough – this may be suppressing demand – residents may also be travelling outside to use facilities • poor quality facilities – residents travel outside to use facilities • a lack of referees • a lack of volunteers to run clubs • a lack of awareness.
5.65 The effect of mini sports (both rugby and football) must also be taken into consideration when assessing the level of under / oversupply in Sandwell. Participation in mini football is growing rapidly both nationally and locally in Sandwell and demand for pitches is therefore likely to continue to increase.
5.66 A growth in the numbers of participants at a young age may also generate increased levels of participation in junior and senior sports in future years.
5.67 Based on table 5.11, the likely key issues for future pitch provision can be summarised as:
• increases in participation across the borough are likely to result in shortfalls of pitch provision in all areas, particularly in junior and mini sports • the high growth in mini soccer is likely to place further demand on existing facilities. Similar growth in junior football is also likely to generate further shortfalls of pitch provision. This may also have consequential impact on participation at adult level in future years. Mini soccer is particularly likely to increase, given that current levels are significantly below the national average. • rugby clubs are likely to experience significant pressures on the existing facility stock in future years, particularly resulting from increasing participation of younger players
• the demand for hockey is likely to increase. In light of the unsuitability of some pitches in the borough for the sport, clubs will face increasing pressures on the facilities they are using. They may also face rising competing demands from football and cricket clubs wishing to use synthetic pitches for training.
Maps showing over-supply and shortfall by catchment area
5.68 Maps showing surplus and deficiency by area and by sport for the current and future situation are shown below. Figures for 2026 have been produced by applying TGR figures for each area to estimated population projections and taking into account sports development trends. This provides an indication of the way in which the
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adequacy of local provision in each area and across Sandwell will change during this period.
Map 5.1 – Level of provision for Adult Football in 2026 Map 5.2 - Level of provision for Junior Football in 2026
Map 5.3 – Level of provision for Mini Football in 2026
Map 5.4 – Level of provision for Adult Rugby Union in 2026
Map 5.5 – Level of provision for Cricket in 2026
Map 5.6 – Level of provision for Hockey in 2026
Summary
5.69 The playing pitch methodology takes into account the supply of pitches (number of pitches), and the demand for pitches (number of teams). It measures the demand for pitches on peak days for each sport.
5.70 Calculations indicate that that there are significant pressures on pitches in Sandwell at the current time and that pressures have increased since the previous strategy in 2003. Pressures are focused primarily on junior pitches, particularly from football teams. In contrast, there are sufficient adult pitches to meet demand.
5.71 Current national and local agendas to increase health, physical activity and promotion in sport may have a significant increase on participation in pitch sports in future years and may impact on the overall demand for pitches. Provision of pitches will be critical to the achievement of the aims and objectives of the health agenda.
5.72 In order to calculate future provision and assess current participation team generation rates are calculated. As can be seen from the assessment of team generation rates, participation in football in Sandwell is below the national average in relation to all different age groups and genders. The team generation rates for rugby union (senior and junior male) in Sandwell are similar to the national average, indicating a good level of participation in the borough. Unlike other sports, while participation in cricket is above the national average for the adult game, participation in junior cricket is significantly below national targets.
5.73 This is echoed when using the benchmarking data provided by the FA. If participation targets were to be met, increases equivalent to 82 additional teams would be required, placing significant additional demand on the current pitch stock – there is particularly high latent demand in terms of mini football. This level of latent demand highlights the key opportunities that pitch sports provide in increasing physical activity across the local authority.
5.74 It is essential that future participation in sport is considered now to ensure that appropriate planning of facilities to meet the projected increases in demand can be undertaken.
5.75 Further analysis and recommendations based on the above calculations will be discussed in Section 6.
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The Future Delivery of Playing Pitch Provision across Sandwell Borough
6.1 The application of the Playing Pitch Methodology and a detailed analysis of the supply and demand for pitch sports across Sandwell has been set out in sections 4 and 5. This section considers the key findings of this analysis and provides solutions for the future delivery and implementation of pitch data.
6.2 Ensuring the appropriate distribution of pitches across Sandwell to meet local needs and existing and future demand is particularly important in light of:
• the significant population growth anticipated over the next few years as outlined in the West Midlands Regional Spatial Strategy review. The Phase two spatial options consultation outlines three options for growth. Option two (derived from the responses of the Strategic Authorities to the Section 4(4) Brief – both the initial advice and from subsequent discussions between the WMRA and each Section 4(4) Authority) suggests an indicative figure of 23,600 dwellings being built in Sandwell between 2001-2026. The detailed distribution of provision will be determined through the Black Country Joint Core Strategy. Assuming the household figures are realised, there is likely to be a significant increase in demand for playing pitches.
• high levels of deprivation across Sandwell, with 83% of the total super output areas falling within the worst 40% in the country. Ensuring access to local facilities for residents living in these deprived communities is essential.
• the results of the Active People survey undertaken by Sport England suggest that the proportion of people participating in sport a minimum of three times per week is just 14.9%, placing Sandwell in the lowest quartile nationally. Implementation of the playing pitch strategy will be a key tool in increasing this low level of participation.
• the Building Schools For The Future programme offers the opportunity to maximise resources and facilitate good quality accessible provision.
6.3 The distribution of community use pitches across Sandwell is illustrated in map 6.1 overleaf. A 20-minute walk time catchment buffer has been placed around each facility, enabling the identification of areas where residents are currently outside of the appropriate distance threshold for a pitch. It also highlights where pitches are of particular significance to the local community.
6.4 A 20 min walk time catchment has been chosen in line with CPA indicators. In light of the high levels of deprivation and low car ownership (i.e. poor levels of mobility) highlighted above, the provision of local facilities is particularly important, to ensure that all residents have sufficient opportunity to access sports pitch provision.
6.5 The key issues for pitches in Sandwell were perceived to be:
• Tipton – there are likely to remain high pressures on junior pitches and pressures on adult pitches will increase. By 2026, Tipton is likely to have a shortfall of adult pitch provision, the only area of the borough where this will be the case
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• Wednesbury – improving the quality of existing facilities represents the biggest challenge for the Council and other key providers and qualitative improvements should therefore be prioritised
• Oldbury – the Council should prioritise community use of school sites, particularly for junior pitches. Brandhall Primary, Rounds Green Primary and Langley Primary all contain junior pitches and should be secured for community use to offset unmet demand in the short and medium term. Qualitative improvements are also required to enhance provision in this area
• West Bromwich – The changing facilities at Redhouse Park are currently insufficient to adequately cater for the number of teams at the site and are of poor quality. Should Greets Green be lost, this site will become increasingly important and should be prioritised for improvement.
Figure 6.1 – Access to Sports Pitches in Sandwell
Key: Borough Boundary
20 minute walk time (960m) Grass Pitches
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6.6 As can be seen in map 6.1;
• the majority of residents are within the appropriate distance threshold of at least one facility, indicating that pitches are well distributed across the borough
• only residents living south of Wednesbury and in the far eastern extremes of the borough are outside of the appropriate catchment for facilities
• while the majority of facilities are well spread, there are clusters of facilities serving similar catchments. This is particularly evident in Rowley Regis, where there are several facilities in close proximity to each other. Clusters of small facilities are less economical than larger, multi-pitch sites.
6.7 Map 6.2 overleaf illustrates the spread of different pitch types across Sandwell. It can be seen that:
Football pitches are evenly distributed around the borough
• Cricket pitches are focused predominantly in the South of the borough, indicating that some residents are required to travel. This may reduce the overall quantities of people playing cricket, particularly in light of the low levels of mobility in comparison to the national average
• There are few rugby pitches in the borough, although the two key sites are located in the north and south, maximising access for residents.
6.8 The remainder of this section details:
• aims and objectives of the strategy
• recommended actions for the next five years across the borough.
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Playing Pitch Strategy 66 SECTION 6: DELIVERY OF PLAYING PITCH PROVISION ACROSS SANDWELL METROPOLITAN BOROUGH
Map 6.2 – The Distribution of Cricket, Rugby and Hockey Pitches
Key: District Boundary 20 minute walk time (960m)
Football Pitches Football & Rugby Pitches Cricket & Football Pitches
Cricket, Football & Rugby Pitches
Aims and Objectives
6.9 All suggested actions are based on the principles of:
• maximising opportunity – ensuring that the growth and development of Sandwell Borough advocated in the Regional Spatial Strategy is seen and used as an opportunity to improve pitch provision. Opportunities to use facilities should be promoted across the borough.
• positive planning - ensuring that the precise locations of significant housing developments and their implications on pitch provision are understood (based
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on the proposed local standards), so that appropriate developer contributions can be sought to maximise strategic funding
• improving the availability of pitches – ensuring the provision of the right amount of pitches, in the right places to the right standards that are accessible to the highest number of people
• sustainability - ensuring the long-term sustainability of pitch provision. Promoting enhancement of larger sites where possible and avoiding use of single site pitches. Pitches may be provided as part of multi sports facilities / sport villages, where the incorporation of wider services offers an opportunity to cross subsidise sporting provision courtesy of assured rental income on the site. Examples of other partners include, health, education/skills, community development, social facilities, and private sector.
• partnership working – between key stakeholders and providers of pitches – notably schools. This is considered particularly important in light of the Building Schools For The Future programme that offers the opportunity to maximise resources and facilitate good quality accessible provision.
• restructuring the physical environment – high quality pitch provision can have a significant role in making Sandwell a more attractive place in which to live, work and invest, and, in addressing high levels of deprivation. Not only do natural environmental features such as playing pitches create more amenable and pleasant living spaces, they can also make areas more attractive to new employers who in turn create new employment opportunities.
6.10 It is essential that this playing pitch strategy is not considered in isolation, but that links with other strategies are recognised and the opportunities to achieve wider objectives through pitch provision are sought. The report should be a key driver in the implementation of the findings and recommendations of the open space needs assessment and in the delivery of wider strategies, such as the PE/School Sport/Club Links. Quantity
Ensure the quantity of pitches in the borough is sufficient to meet the needs of local residents now and in the future
6.11 Playing pitch methodology calculations highlight shortages of pitch provision in four of the six geographical areas with only Tipton and West Bromwich clusters having sufficient overall supply to meet demand - indicating that there are significant pressures on the existing pitch stock. These shortfalls are particularly apparent in terms of junior pitches, with many clubs reporting that they are forced to travel outside of the borough to access pitches.
6.12 Based on the current shortfalls in provision revealed by the playing pitch methodology, and in light of the fact that pitches are often under threat from other, non sport development, protection of pitches is of paramount importance. Moreover, the Regional Spatial Strategy advocated a substantial level of housing growth in Sandwell, and therefore protection of pitches will become increasingly important over the LDF period.
6.13 In order to deliver an adequate quantity of playing pitches, the Council should:
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1) Ensure that all pitch sites are afforded protection within the emerging Local Development Framework. Pitch sites should not be developed unless it can be proved through the application of both the playing pitch methodology and PPG17 that the site is:
• surplus to requirements in terms of demand for pitches and not providing an important local amenity (where there is a deficiency of other forms of open space planning permission should be subject to securing the use of some of the land to reduce the deficit (s))
• not surplus to requirements but the proposed development will secure the conversion of other land to substitute the land lost – where provision will be to an equal or higher quality.
6.14 The Council should consider preparing an SPD for open space, sport and recreation, which can set out the expected financial contributions arising from housing and employment development. This would help secure investment through the planning system and ensure that pitch provision meets future local needs.
6.15 An important outcome from a playing pitch strategy is the development of local standards of provision, in accordance with national planning policy. This is particularly important in light of significant development across Sandwell. Such standards will:
• underpin negotiations with developers over their contributions towards new pitch provision to meet the needs of new residential developments
• provide an additional overview of the general supply of pitches/level of provision
• assist in protecting land in playing field use
• assist in benchmarking with other areas/authorities.
6.16 The NPFA’s Six Acre Standard states that for every 1,000 people, 1.2 hectares of playing pitches should be provided. However, this is a national benchmark and has little value at a local level as local standards can be as low as 0.4 or 0.5 in urban areas. Therefore local factors are of vital importance when establishing a local standard. The recommended quantity standard for pitches is set out below.
6.17 PPG17 advocates the development of local standards that consider the local population and local community needs. This playing pitch standard reflects local demand for football, cricket and rugby pitches in the borough.
6.18 The existing and future local standard has been calculated below. The existing standard is based upon the current supply of pitches (measured in area) in each analysis area, divided by the population in that analysis area. The current level of provision is therefore equivalent to 0.49ha per 1000 population.
6.19 Playing pitch methodology calculations outline where current shortfalls and surpluses exist for each type of sport, and suggest potential solutions to ensure that provision meets the needs of the community.
6.20 The future local standard calculation is based upon the findings of this report for 2026. This figure has been derived from the Regional Spatial Strategy Phase 2 Spatial Options paper – this option is derived from the responses of the Strategic
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Authorities to the Section 4(4) Brief – both the initial advice and from subsequent discussions between the WMRA and each Section 4(4) Authority. As such, the distribution is based on local knowledge of opportunities and constraints as well as seeking to meet an appropriate distribution of housing proposals across the Region.
6.21 It takes into account the additional (or surplus) pitches identified within this report in 2026 and calculates the required area per thousand population, which is 0.47 ha. The current level of provision required is lower than the existing standard. This can be explained by the large amount of residential growth up to 2026 expected in Sandwell. Therefore although the demand analysis placed a requirement for a further 36.65 hectares of provision, based on a population growth figure of 87240, the requirement for 1000 population is actually lower than the existing level of provision. The emphasis on additional pitches for juniors (smaller than adult facilities) is also a key determinant of the lower standard.
Future Total playing Playing pitch Additional Total playing pitch area area per 1,000 pitch area future Future pitch area Sub-area Population with secured population required pitch area population per 1,000 community (ha) (ha) (ha) population use (ha) (ha) Tipton 41,371 18.04 0.44 -6.39 11.65 52,276 0.22 Wednesbury 35,705 23.02 0.64 12.03 35.05 46,610 0.75 West Bromwich 68,142 24.90 0.37 -3.70 21.20 89,952 0.24 Rowley Regis 49,749 11.90 0.24 17.52 29.42 64,289 0.46 Oldbury 46,723 36.10 0.77 3.72 39.82 61,263 0.65 Smethwick 41,214 25.52 0.62 12.35 37.87 55,754 0.68 Total 282,904 139.48 0.49 35.54 175.02 370,144 0.47
6.22 However, this figure constitutes a minimum level of provision to ensure that supply and demand are aligned, and does not take into account the recommended strategic reserve.
6.23 In addition to providing pitches to meet a minimum quantity standard, it is important to allow for the rest and recovery of sites. It is therefore suggested that an additional 10% is added onto the standard to allow for this (this links to the recommendation regarding strategic reserve). It is therefore recommended that the local standard is set at 0.52ha per 1000 population.
2) Meet identified deficiencies through:
• the redesignation of existing open space, sport and recreation facilities (in some areas it may be possible to make better use of land by relocating it as a playing pitch – particularly in areas where there are surpluses in other types of open space)
• creation of new facilities where appropriate (new provision may be required where there will be a planned increase in population and will be required in areas which are currently devoid of pitch provision)
• improving pitch quality (these will be those pitches which are critically important in avoiding deficiencies in diversity, accessibility or quantity but scored poorly in the quality assessment).
3) Ensure that all new developments contribute to the provision of outdoor sports facilities through the use of S106 agreements. Where quantitative
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deficiencies do not exist, money should still be required for qualitative improvements. Emphasis should be given to:
• pursuing a strategic approach at local authority level
• the need to link the corporate strategy and Best Value work of authorities with the process of negotiating new and refurbished sports facilities
• joint working between sport and leisure professionals and land use planners
• the provision of sound justification for what is sought from developers and other applicants for planning permission.
• monitoring of s106 contributions towards pitch provision.
6.24 The local standard should be used in order to ascertain the level of input from developers as it states the required amount of land per 1000 population. For example, a development providing housing for 1000 people would be expected to provide sufficient funding for 0.53 hectares of playing pitch provision. The most appropriate type of provision (i.e. the sport where there is the highest need) should then be determined using the results of the playing pitch methodology. In some cases where there are no deficiencies it may be appropriate to fund the enhancement of existing pitches. A developer should only be asked to fund the additional shortfalls their development will create. They cannot be asked to make up existing deficiencies.
4) Ensure that the quantity of provision is sufficient to exceed local needs – some degree of spare capacity is an integral part of playing pitch provision for the following reasons:
• to accommodate latent and future demand for existing pitch sport teams • to enable the development of new clubs and teams • for the development / expansion of new pitch sports (such as mini-soccer and 1‘tag’ rugby) • to accommodate backlogs and for rest and recovery periods. Enhancing Accessibility
Maximising access to pitches in the borough 6.25 A c cess to outdoor sports facilities is of particular importance, as sites are only highly valued if they are accessible to the local community. An inaccessible facility is of limited value to the local community as a sports facility, regardless of the quality of the space.
6.26 Access to school sites is a frequently raised issue across the UK, with many good quality playing fields sitting unused on peak days. Of the 259 pitches identified, 67% are secured for use by the community. Schools that are used by the community (but have no formal agreements) are not included within the 67%.
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6.27 Encouraging schools to permit community use may require genuine financial commitment from the local authority to improve playing surfaces and capacity, provide or improve changing accommodation. The Building Schools For the Future programme may offer opportunities to enhance community use of facilities in future years. The extended schools agenda may also facilitate the use of school facilities for community use.
6.28 Increasing access to pitches at school sites ensures that resources are maximised. Sandwell Borough Council will therefore ensure that access to pitches within the borough is maximised through the following policy objectives:
5) Improving Access to School Pitches - school pitches can provide a crucial resource for community sport in Sandwell. Opening up school facilities provides a key opportunity to address local facilities and ensure that all residents have access to facilities near to their homes. Despite this, schools are frequently reluctant to open up their facilities for community access and clubs may not be attracted to using them. Reasons include:
• sustainability concerns – there are concerns that school pitches cannot sustain a higher level of usage over and above that required for curricular use– with many suffering from poor drainage and lower quality maintenance
• access to appropriate changing facilities
• the use of school pitches can frequently be governed by the school term times. In addition, it is common for schools to change pitches from football to cricket for the summer term, which may not correspond with the requirements of community use teams.
The council should support schools in drawing up formal community use agreements which secure the use of the facility for use outside school hours where there is local community need. These agreements should facilitate the use of these facilities and ensure long-term access.
6) Ensuring facilities are accessible to all through compliance with DDA - the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) of 1995 received additional powers in October 2004 when an additional phase came into force. This renewed focus upon disability rights has not only introduced greater legal powers in the protection of disabled persons legal rights, it has also reinforced awareness of existing legislation in this area. The implications of this are considerable as all goods, services and facilities – whether charged for or provided free of charge – are covered by the legislation. Providers should ensure that:
• people are not treated less favourably
• service providers must make reasonable adjustments for people with disabilities, such as providing extra help or making changes to the way they provide their services
• service providers may have to make other reasonable adjustments in relation to the physical features of their premises to overcome physical barriers to access.
The full Code of Practice is downloadable from http://www.disability.gov.uk.
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Playing Pitch Strategy 72 SECTION 6: DELIVERY OF PLAYING PITCH PROVISION ACROSS SANDWELL METROPOLITAN BOROUGH
6.29 It is important to ensure that all residents are able to access a pitch within an appropriate distance of their home. PPG17 recommends that local standards for outdoor sports facilities are set and applied to determine areas of deficiency. Although the guidance set out in Towards a Level Playing Field does not consider the accessibility of pitches in relation to distance thresholds, consideration of access is an essential tool in effective planning of pitch provision.
6.30 The CPA indicator for sports pitch provision measures the amount of residents within a 20 minute walk time catchment of a pitch. The application of a 20minute walk time to the existing distribution of pitches in Sandwell (set out in Figure 6.1) highlights that the majority of residents are able to access at least one pitch within this distance. The Council should work to ensure that 100% of residents are able to reach at least one pitch with secured community use within a 20-minute walk time of their home. Furthermore, where possible, consideration should be given to ensuring that residents have access to a variety of facilities. Cricket pitches are located predominantly in the south and therefore residents in the north have lower propensity to participate.
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Playing Pitch Strategy 73 SECTION 6: DELIVERY OF PLAYING PITCH PROVISION ACROSS SANDWELL METROPOLITAN BOROUGH
Quality
Ensure the quality of pitches in the borough is sufficient to meet demand both now and in the future
6.31 Provision of quality facilities is essential to encourage people to participate. In addition, it impacts not only on the quality of play, but also on the potential capacity of a pitch. To ensure an equitable distribution of facilities all residents should be within 20-minutes walk time of good quality pitch provision.
6.32 The quality of pitches in Sandwell is varied, with a widely held perception that pitches in the south are of a higher quality that pitches in the north of the borough. Cricket clubs in particular highlighted the poor quality of public facilities in the borough. Improvements to pitch quality will be essential to maintain and increase participation rates in the borough.
6.33 In order to effectively meet demand, the Council will therefore facilitate the delivery of improved quality facilities through the implementation of the following policy objectives:
7) drive a rolling programme of improvements across Council pitch sites. This will improve capacity at pitch sites, drive increases in participation, improve access for all groups and enable higher participation levels to be maintained over a sustained period. All facilities should meet with National Governing Body Standards in terms of both the quality of pitches and ancillary facilities.
6.34 PPG17 highlights that there are several factors integral to the successful delivery of a network of high quality sport and recreation, stating that:
“Quality depends on two things: the needs and expectations of users, on the one hand, and design, management and maintenance on the other”
6.35 The Sport England CPA accessibility indicator reinforces the importance of quality through the implementation and application of the standard:
% of population that are within 20 minutes travel time (urban areas – by walk; rural areas – by car) of a range of 3 different sports facility types of which one has achieved a quality assured standard, specifically;
• Quest
• Green Flag
• ISO 9001:2000
• Investors in Excellence
• Chartermark.
6.36 A park containing sports pitch provision can be one such means of achieving the above quality standard. All new pitches developed should meet the quality standards detailed above.
6.37 Site visits undertaken as part of this study were summarised in section 4. The results of the visits provide an indication of the current quality of provision. In order to drive a
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Playing Pitch Strategy 74 SECTION 6: DELIVERY OF PLAYING PITCH PROVISION ACROSS SANDWELL METROPOLITAN BOROUGH
programme of improvements, a minimum quality standard should be applied, measured by the score according to the site assessment matrix. It is recommended that this is set at:
• 90% for the site and ancillary facilities (the score currently required to fall within the top quarter of sites)
• 62% for the pitch area (the score currently required to fall within the top quarter of sites). This should reflect a minimum standard of provision.
The proportion of pitches and ancillary facilities meeting this requirement should be monitored annually.
8) provide support to all partners in the maintenance, improvement and enhancement of their facilities
9) operate a policy of rest and recovery at all pitch sites, ensuring that the quality of pitches does not deteriorate over the course of a season or from season to season. Improving the current and future management of facilities
Ensure that facilities are managed in the most effective way
6.38 Efficient management and maintenance of facilities is as important as the quality, quantity and access to the facilities. Sandwell Borough Council pitches may be booked by individuals, teams or leagues. Teams book for a season and are essentially allocated a home pitch, paying weekly to play their matches on this pitch. This system has been implemented long term and has received only isolated complaints. The majority of complaints are related to pitch markings, or grass cutting. There are a few complaints about pitch conditions.
6.39 Council Pitches in Sandwell are broken down into three classes, with different fees and charges dependent on the availability of changing rooms (wet and dry facilities or just dry facilities).
6.40 There are also a number of self management pitches in the borough, which are charged per season, per pitch. Of these pitches, Kent Road isn’t used as present as it gets very wet and is in need of fencing and draining. Newton Road has 3 pitches, however there is currently no interest in the site – which is potentially linked to the lack of parking at this site.
6.41 For Council pitches which have changing rooms (wet and dry), the cost to regular senior users (football and rugby) in 2006/7 was £32. For casual users the cost increases to £60. In terms of junior use, the fees are reduced to £17 and £30 for regular and casual users respectively.
6.42 For pitches with no changs rooms, the cost to regular uses (football and rugby) in 2006/7 was £10. For casual users the cost increases to £25. These fees are the same for senior and junior users.
6.43 Consultation highlights that clubs feel that the pricing structure does not represent value for money. A pricing comparison with other authorities in the Black Country. An average pitch price has then been calculated for comparison purposes.
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LA Name Adult Football Junior Football
Sandwell £25 £25
Wolverhampton £28 £18
Dudley £26 £26
Walsall £25 £12
6.44 The average price for pitches across the Black Country is therefore
• Adult football - £26
• Junior Football - £20.25
• The price for hiring an adult pitch in Sandwell is just below the average price across the Black Country at £25. However, the price for hiring a junior pitch in Sandwell is significantly above the Black Country average price of £20.25.
6.45 It is therefore recommended that the junior pitch pricing system be revised across Sandwell borough as a whole.
6.46 The Council continue to take a hands on approach to the delivery of pitches at the current time and should look to maintain and improve this service through:
10) Ensuring the pitch booking system remains simple and efficient to use – this should be reviewed on an annual basis in consultation with users. Consideration should be given to the inclusion of school facilities with formal agreements in the system to facilitate access to these sites.
11) Ensure facilities offer value for money - As identified previously, a key emerging issue was cost of hiring pitches in light of the perceived quality of many public venues. Given that there is no interest in the self management pitches at Newton Road the Council should considering revising the cost of this scheme or improving the quality of the site to increase demand. Consideration should also be given to a review of the pricing policy in light of comments received from clubs through the consultation process.
12) Promote joint and partnership working across the Council and with key stakeholders in the provision of playing pitches through the development of a joint working group. The group should involve key stakeholders across the borough including leisure and grounds maintenance, Parish Councils, Education, Sports Development, Key Clubs and Planning. Consideration should also be given to the development of increased partnership working between clubs, through the development of specific forums for particular sports in the borough. Addressing the key issues
6.47 The suggested key actions and areas for further investigation are set out overleaf. Tables 6.4 – 6.9 give consideration to the adequacy of provision to meet current and local needs for football, rugby, cricket and hockey. Issues and potential solutions are discussed on a borough wide basis for cricket, rugby and hockey, in light of the lower
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Playing Pitch Strategy 76 SECTION 6: DELIVERY OF PLAYING PITCH PROVISION ACROSS SANDWELL METROPOLITAN BOROUGH
levels of participation in these sports, while the demand for football pitches is considered specifically within the different geographical areas of the borough.
The Role of Synthetic Pitches
6.48 Common problems with pitch provision are often related to a lack of training/practice facilities. If players are to improve and clubs develop they require access to training facilities as well as match pitches. Training on match pitches further exacerbates the quality issues at pitch sites and generates wear and tear.
6.49 Artificial surfaces provide more consistent playing and practice conditions than grass. The development of synthetic turf pitches (STPs) has fundamentally changed the way some sports are played and matches are programmed. Few hockey matches are now played on grass, and frequently games can only be accommodated by sequential programming on match days. In time, the development of ‘third generation’ STPs for football may have a similar effect.
6.50 Sport England research into the use of STPs indicates that they play two principal roles, midweek training for football and weekend matches for hockey. Additionally, the popularity of five a side football as a game in its’ own right is increasing.
6.51 Throughout this report, the analysis of the demand for synthetic pitches has focused on the demand for hockey pitches. In light of the growing role of synthetic pitches for football training, it is essential to consider the need for additional facilities
6.52 The capacity of artificial pitches is greater than grass pitches, however this is dependent on opening hours and the availability of floodlighting. One of the greatest impacts of artificial training areas and 5-a-side courts is that they free up sports hall space for other sports by accommodating 5-a-side football. It is necessary therefore that links are created between this playing pitch strategy and consideration of indoor sports facilities. Additionally, the provision of 5-a-side facilities may reduce the demand and programming issues on full size synthetic pitches that are required for hockey training. Artificial training areas can provide for the casual needs of various sports and reduce pressure on existing grass pitches from casual use and training.
6.53 The role of artificial training areas and 5-a-side courts should therefore be recognised in terms of provision for informal/casual use and all-weather training for football. Current behaviour patterns are not necessarily a good means of assessing demand for training, as demand is constrained by supply.
5.1 Unofficial training on grass pitches emerged as one of the key issues facing clubs within Sandwell at the current time. Cost is however a particular barrier to the usage of synthetic facilities.
6.54 The use of third generation synthetic facilities for competitive football is becoming increasingly acceptable and the benefits that synthetic facilities provide is recognised. Third generation pitches are suitable for both training and competitive matches for football. The replacement of any grass pitches with synthetic provision should be considered carefully in light of the loss of open space, taking into account the need for other types of open space as well as the demand for sports provision. Opportunities for synthetic pitch provision are considered alongside other priorities in the tables that follow.
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Playing Pitch Strategy 77 SECTION 6: DELIVERY OF PLAYING PITCH PROVISION ACROSS SANDWELL METROPOLITAN BOROUGH
Table 6.4
Area Action It is important to note that one of the key challenges for football provision in Sandwell is the high proportion of teams that wish to play at the peak time. While there are numerous opportunities for football teams outside of peak hours, there are high pressures on the pitches to meet these local needs at peak times. The number of pitches to meet demand is therefore greater. Should programming of league matches be adjusted, the number of pitches required to meet current and future demand will be reduced.
In light of the demand for football facilities and the high levels of deprivation in some areas of the borough, it is important to provide local facilities to maximise participation at a junior and senior level. Analysis of pitch provision for football has therefore been carried out on a town basis.
Large pitch sites provide economies of scale and provide a competitive environment and higher quality atmosphere. It is however essential to ensure that changing accommodation is sufficient to enable the use of all pitches at the same time and to comply with league regulations. Child protection issues must also be addressed.
Tipton The PPM reveals that there is an overall shortfall of pitch provision in the Tipton area, with the small surplus in adult football (1.4 pitches) countered by a shortfall in junior football of 2.4 pitches. This indicates that there is pressure on pitches in this area. Although there are currently sufficient pitches to accommodate demand for adult football, in the longer term, there will also be a shortfall in adult football, as well as continuing shortfalls in junior and mini soccer.
Projecting the results of the PPM model forward to 2026 reveals that there will be shortfalls in adult, junior and mini soccer. As a consequence, it is important that the Council investigate the potential for further football provision within the Tipton area. This should be achieved in the first instance through increased community use at school sites such as Glebefields Primary, Ocker Hill Junior, and Joseph Turner Primary.
In the short to medium term, there are likely to remain high pressures on junior pitches and pressures on adult pitches will increase. Provision of a third generation pitch in the area, or the development of new facilities should be considered. This new facility could be placed at Tipton Sports Academy, ensuring maximum benefit for both curricular and community use.
Existing pressures on junior pitches will result in the wear and tear of pitches. Tibbington Playing Fields is the key site for junior football in this area, currently containing two junior pitches. This site should be prioritised for improvement; and if space permits, additional junior pitches should be provided on this site.
Developer contributions should be used towards increasing the quantity of provision in the locality.
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Playing Pitch Strategy 78 SECTION 6: DELIVERY OF PLAYING PITCH PROVISION ACROSS SANDWELL METROPOLITAN BOROUGH
Table 6.5
Theme Action Wednesbury While there are currently 10 adult football pitches surplus at peak times in Wednesbury, participation increases and population growth up to 2026 will see this surplus decrease to 7.7 pitches. Despite this surplus in adult football pitch provision, there are shortfalls in junior pitches in this area (8.6 pitches). These shortfalls are likely to increase over the strategy period up to 2026 to over 12 pitches.
The largest site in Wednesbury is Hydes Road Playing Fields. This site is currently used by both adults and juniors, although it contains adult pitches. Hydes Road Playing Fields is an important strategic site in the north of the borough and should be protected through the LDF.
Both Bilston Recreation Ground and Kent Road Playing Fields are single pitch sites. Consideration should be given to allocating one or both of these as junior sites (providing potential scope to set out two pitches).
School sites can also be used to meet some demand for junior pitches. Harvills Hawthorn Primary school currently contains junior pitches, and should be secured for community use to offset unmet demand. Renovations and redevelopment of facilities at school sites provides an opportunity to ensure that provision is appropriate to meet the needs of the local community as well as the curricular needs of school pupils. In addition to meeting the shortfalls of pitches in the Wednesbury area for rugby and hockey, consideration should be given to the provision of junior football pitches at school sites.
While there is currently a small surplus of football pitches in this area, in light of increasing participation and growth in the local population, no pitches in the area will be surplus to requirements during the strategy period. By 2026 shortfalls in provision will exceed surpluses and there will be demand for additional facilities. At least five additional junior community pitches will be required by 2026 and this requirement would be significantly greater should latent demand be realised.
While there are issues regarding the quantity / access to pitches in this area, in the short term, improving the quality of existing facilities represents the biggest challenge for the Council and other key providers and qualitative improvements should therefore be prioritised. In light of the importance of Hydes Road Playing Fields as a central venue for adult football in the area, improvements to this site should be given highest priority in this area of the borough. Improvments to the pitches at Kent Road should also be scheduled, to ensure that use of these pitches as a junior football venue is maximised.
In the longer term, the provision of new facilities should be considered. These should be facilitated by the planning process through developer contributions and should be focused on meeting the needs of youth football players. There are currently sufficient mini soccer pitches to meet the needs of the local community and if participation increases only marginally, the current stock will meet demand up to 2026. In the event of continuing participation growth in mini soccer, an increase in pitch provision may be required. While demand should be monitored, further provision for mini soccer should not be prioritised at the current time.
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Playing Pitch Strategy 79 SECTION 6: DELIVERY OF PLAYING PITCH PROVISION ACROSS SANDWELL METROPOLITAN BOROUGH
Table 6.6
Theme Action Oldbury Whilst there are currently 10.6 adult pitches surplus at peak times in Oldbury, participation increases and population growth up to 2026 will see this decrease to only 4 pitches.
Furthermore, there are particular pressures and demand for junior pitches in the area (9.6 pitches) that are likely to grow to a shortfall of 13.2 pitches up to 2026.
Key sites in this area are Lion Farm, Barnford Park and Tividale Park. In light of the shortfalls of junior facilities and the contrasting surplus of adult facilities in the area, there is a need to redesignate some provision for adults as junior facilities. The current and long-term surplus of adult facilities suggests that this is possible, although there will be an overall shortfall of pitches in the area.
Lion Farm Playing Fields is a large multi pitch site. Constant quality issues are experienced at this site pitches are currently out of use due to drainage issues. Quality improvements to pitches at this site, including the reinstatement pitches currently out of use should be prioritised. Improvements to the capacity at this site would enhance the overall level of provision increase the number of surplus adult pitches. This will further enable the redesignation of adult pitches.
Improvements to existing pitches at Lion Farm will ensure that the supply of adult pitches is sufficient to meet demand. In order to meet the needs of junior teams, consideration should be given to the redesigntation of Barnford Park. In the short term, the Council should prioritise community use of school sites, particularly for junior pitches. Brandhall Primary, Rounds Green Primary, and Langley Primary all contain junior pitches, and should be secured for community use to offset unmet demand in the short and medium term.
The development of a 3g pitch in the area would increase opportunities for sports participation and ensure that more juniors are able to access pitches. In light of long term overall shortfalls, this will be particularly important.
Provision of additional community use sites accommodating the needs of juniors should be prioritised. In the event of additional facilities / improvements to Lion Farm, some senior sites may be considered surplus to requirements. Basons Lane (a single pitch site which are more economically difficult to sustain) may be considered for alternative uses. The loss of a pitch should be mitigated through investment in other sites.
Whilst there are issues regarding the supply of pitches, in the short term, improving the quality of existing facilities is also a key challenge for the Council and other key providers. The fourth pitch at Tividale Park suffers from waterlogging and improvements to this site should be made to ensure all pitches are playable. Lion Farm has constant quality issues and this should be improved to ensure that resources are maximised.
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Playing Pitch Strategy 80 SECTION 6: DELIVERY OF PLAYING PITCH PROVISION ACROSS SANDWELL METROPOLITAN BOROUGH
Table 6.7
Theme Action
West West Bromwich is one of only three areas in Sandwell where there are overall surpluses of pitch provision at the current time. (The PPM results Bromwich reveal that West Bromwich has the greatest oversupply of adult football pitches in the borough (15.8) whilst the undersupply in junior football is 6.8). However this surplus of pitches is predicted to decrease substantially up to 2026. West Bromwich Albion Football Club are particularly active in this area of the borough, encouraging large numbers of children to participate as well as running the professional teams.
The shortfall in junior pitches occurs primarily as a result of the number of teams run by Bustleholme Youth FC who play at Charlemont Farm. Given the high level of pressure on this facility, and more generally the shortfall in junior pitches in the West Bromwich area, it is recommended that 7 adult pitches in West Bromwich are re-designated as junior pitches.
The key sites located within the West Bromwich area are Greets Green, Charlemont Farm and Red House Park. There are currently 6 pitches available at Greets Green, which are allocated for Sunday morning use only. Regeneration proposals in the Greets Green area currently indicate that there may be a loss of the pitches at this site. Should this occur, supply will equal demand (assuming that 6 pitches have been lost and 7 redesignated for junior use). This highlights the importance of considering the provision of replacement pitches.
In the event of pitch loss in this area, community use of school sites will take on increased importance. Schools such as Holy Trinity Primary, Hamstead Junior, Ferndale Primary, Grove Vale Primary and Whitecrest Primary all currently contain junior pitches that could be used to cater for community teams at weekends. In light of the loss of a large strategic venue, qualitative improvements should be prioritised in the short term to ensure that the facilities available are of good quality. The changing facilities at Redhouse Park are currently insufficient to adequately cater for the number of teams at the site and are of poor quality. Should Greets Green be lost, this site will become increasingly important and should be prioritised for improvement. Redhouse Park should be invested in as the new strategic venue in the West Bromwich area.
The PPM results show that there is a surplus of mini soccer that is equivalent of 3.5 pitches. The mini soccer league continues to grow in popularity, and it is important to plan for the growth in demand in term of pitch provision. The additional space on the KGV site should be protected and as demand increases, additional pitches should be marked out.
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Playing Pitch Strategy 81 SECTION 6: DELIVERY OF PLAYING PITCH PROVISION ACROSS SANDWELL METROPOLITAN BOROUGH
Table 6.8
Theme Action
Rowley While there are currently sufficient adult pitches to meet demand (3.1 pitches), demand for junior pitches outstrips supply (shortfall of 6.2 pitches) Regis and hence there are significant pressures on pitches. This is exacerbated by a shortfall of mini pitches. Like other areas, the shortfall of junior pitch provision in Rowley Regis is likely to increase by 2026 to 8.8 pitches. Should latent demand be realised, this would place further pressures on the pitches.
Although in future years surpluses of adult football pitches will decrease to 0.8 pitches (the smallest surplus of adult pitches across Sandwell), priority should be given to addressing the needs of junior football teams in the short term. The existing shortfall of 6.2 junior pitches, coupled with the small surplus of 3 adult pitches indicates that the overall shortfall of pitches for football is greatest in this area at the current time.
In the short term, community access to school sites should be secured, particularly to those sites where there are junior pitches on site. Heathfield High School currently permits informal community use, and formalising this may alleviate pressures on other sites. Renovations and development plans at Timbertree Primary will result in additional pitches available to the community. Cakemoor Playing Fields provides a good opportunity to meet the demands of junior teams. Although the site has been recently been relevelled and drained, the pitches continue to cut up badly. Redesignating this site as a junior site (who generate less wear and tear) would minimise quality deterioration.
Despite this, further new facilities for youth football may be required within the Rowley Regis area over the medium term. Given that the quality of facilities within the Rowley Regis area is reasonable, priority in this area should focus on the provision of sufficient pitches.
The provision of new facilities will be particularly important in the long term. All opportunities to deliver improvements through the redevelopment of school sites / modernisation of community sports facilities should be seized. Consideration should be given to the provision of a third generation pitch within the Rowley Regis area at a school site. Third generation pitches offer a greater capacity than grass pitches and are able to sustain higher numbers of matches and also cater for the training needs of clubs. This will be particularly important in this area in light of current and future pressures.
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Playing Pitch Strategy 82 SECTION 6: DELIVERY OF PLAYING PITCH PROVISION ACROSS SANDWELL METROPOLITAN BOROUGH
Table 6.9
Theme Action
Smethwick Like much of the south of the borough, pitches in the Smethwick area are of good quality.
While the provision of mini soccer pitches in the Smethwick area is sufficient to meet demand, there are shortfalls of junior football pitches equivalent to 8 pitches. This shortfall will rise to11.2 pitches by 2026 and the surplus of adult football pitches (currently 6.8) will reduce to 2.3 pitches. Like other areas, a focus on the delivery of more junior pitches is essential to ensure that there are sufficient opportunities for juniors to play.
In the short term, there are sufficient surplus adult pitch sites to enable the redesignation as junior pitches. Britannia Park already provides opportunities for mini football in this area. Consideration should be given to the allocation of two senior football pitches at this site to provide a focal point for mini and junior football in the area. There are numerous other sites containing one or two adult pitches that could provide a short- term home for junior football teams. In the first instance, sites without changing facilities (which do not comply with regulations for adult football) should be used, including Black Patch Park, Lewisham Park, Smethwick Hall Park.
Longer term however as demand increases for adult pitches, alternative solutions to meet the needs of junior football teams will be required.
School sites provide a key opportunity for addressing unmet demand in the local area. Devonshire Junior School, Albion Junior School, George Betts School all currently contain junior football pitches and negotiations with these schools should be prioritised in order to ensure that these are formally available for community use. Facilities at the Sandwell Academy could also be used in order to address deficiencies in junior pitches.
Should insufficient pitches be available at school sites for junior use, new provision will be required. Where possible in order to maximise resources, this should be located at a school site.
Unlike some other areas of Sandwell Borough, the quality of football pitches in the Smethwick area is perceived to be good and has recently improved significantly. Improvements to the quantity of pitches to ensure that junior needs are met should therefore be prioritised over further qualitative improvements in the medium term. Implementing a programme of rest and recovery of sites in this area and ensuring that pitches are not over used should be a key priority of the Council. Victoria Park, Smethwick and West Smethwick Park are key sites for the delivery of football in the Smethwick area and it is essential that these sites are able to sustain at least two games per week.
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Playing Pitch Strategy 83 SECTION 6: DELIVERY OF PLAYING PITCH PROVISION ACROSS SANDWELL METROPOLITAN BOROUGH
Cricket in Sandwell Areas for Investigation Analysis of the provision of cricket indicates that overall there is an undersupply of cricket pitches on peak days (Saturdays) across Sandwell. There is also demand from teams for midweek and Sunday play suggesting that in addition to the shortfall on a Saturday, in some instances these facilities may be required at least three times per week. Therefore as a consequence of this shortfall in provision, it can be inferred that existing pitches have to sustain a higher level of use than would be the case if further wickets were available in the borough. Further pitch provision should therefore be considered in locations with a quantitative shortfall – to alleviate unmet demand and facilitate the improvement of existing pitches by reducing pressure on these sites. These shortfalls indicate where immediate pressures exist. Quality issues were also raised.
The four large clubs have private facilities that accommodate the majority of play by teams at these clubs however the majority of clubs have difficulties accommodating junior teams, as indicated by shortfalls in provision.
The largest shortfalls of cricket in the borough can be found in Rowley Regis (6.3); where Old Hill Cricket Club is the
Area Cricket Provision in 2007 Cricket Provision in 2026 focus of cricket and there is no other provision - highlighting significant pressures in light of the high participation evident Tipton 3.7 3.4 at this sports ground. In order to reduce pressures on this site, the existing pitch site should be protected through the Wednesbury -3.6 -5.9 LDF, and new provision should be considered in consultation with Old Hill Cricket Club. West Bromwich -0.8 -1.1 In order to adequately meet demand, while simultaneously encouraging the development of cricket in schools, provision Rowley Regis -6.3 -8.9 at school sites, (and made available for community use) should be considered. In Rowley Regis, consideration should be Oldbury 2.2 1.9 given to the provision of a wicket at Heathfield High School. Heathfield High currently permits informal community use of Smethwick -3.4 -5.7 existing facilities at the school site. This should serve to meet some demand. Similar to Rowley Regis, quantitative shortfalls can also be found in Wednesbury (3.6), West Bromwich (0.8), and Smethwick (3.4). The shortfalls in Smethwick and Wednesbury can be largely attributed to the high demand to play at three of Sandwell’s main cricket venues - Smethwick Cricket Club (Smethwick), Dartmouth Cricket Club (Smethwick) and Wednesbury Sports Union (Wednesbury). Like in the Rowley Regis area, in order to facilitate the development of cricket in schools as well as providing overspill facilities to enable existing cricket clubs to accommodate their junior teams, provision of cricket facilities should be considered. In light of pressures on existing pitches, consideration should be given to providing facilities at Stuart Bathurst High School, or providing an additional pitch at Wood Green Sports College. Opportunities to provide facilities at schools through Building Schools for the Future and other regeneration programmes should be seized.
In addition to pressure on existing facilities from private cricket clubs, there is also pressure on public facilities, primarily from clubs in the Sandwell Cricket League. In contrast to shortfalls in Wednesbury, Rowley Regis, West Bromwich and Smethwick, there are surpluses in Tipton and Oldbury, arising from pitches not being used.
Consultation highlights that the Sandwell League would prefer to use a large multi pitch site. Should this be considered an attractive possibility, consideration should be given to the improvement of pitches at Smethwick Park and the reinstatement of the two unused pitches to provide a venue with four pitches. The unused pitches could then be considered for alternative uses. The improvement of facilities at Smethwick Park for cricket would also enable Smethwick and Dartmouth Cricket Clubs to use these facilities to cater for junior teams.
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Cricket in Sandwell Areas for Investigation
Analysis of existing patterns of play indicates that there is little use of some sites as they are perceived to be of poor quality. In the event that the conversion of Smethwick Park into a central venue for cricket is considered inappropriate, the improvement of some of these cricket facilities should be prioritised. Victoria Park in Tipton is a particularly poor site that should be prioritised for improvements. Should the two pitches at this site be improved, teams may travel from other areas and alleviate pressures on these pitches.
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Rugby in Sandwell Areas for Investigation In quantitative terms, there is an overall undersupply of rugby union pitches across the borough when considering the demand from adult and junior teams on their respective peak days (currently –1.5, but likely to increase to –3.6
y y by 2026). b b g g Area 2007 2026
u u While supply is sufficient to meet the needs of the adult teams on peak days in quantitative terms, training by junior r r
r r and mini teams, alongside competitive fixtures for these age groups places significant pressures on pitches. As o o
i i indicated by the supply and demand figures generated through the playing pitch methodology calculations, pressure n n union 2007 union 2026
u u is likely to increase on pitches in future years resulting in a greater undersupply. j j
f f
o o The majority of mini teams use astroturf to train and have therefore not been included in calculations. This
l l l l requirement will however be considered when taking into account the need for additional facilities and / or qualitative a a f f
t t improvements. r r o o
h h It can be seen there is an overall shortfall in Wednesbury, the location of Wednesbury Rugby Club, (1 pitch) S S illustrating that these pitches are consequently suffering from overuse, and subsequent quality deterioration. The RFU national facility strategy indicates that pitches without drainage should not be required to sustain more than 2
Shortfall of adult rugby union Shortfall of adult rugby union hours play per week. Should this shortfall not be rectified pressures will increase, generating a shortfall of 1.4 Tipton 1.0 0.0 1.0 0.0 pitches. Wednesbury 0.0 -1.0 -0.7 -1.4 In the short term, improvement to the quality of these pitches to ensure that they are able to sustain the required West level of use is essential and should be prioritised. In addition to the ongoing replacement of changing facilities, this Bromwich 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 should include improvements to the pitch surface and drainage. Full training facilities (with floodlights) should also be Rowley Regis 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 provided in line with NGB recommendations. Third generation facilities are able to sustain greater levels of play than grass and therefore may offer a more sustainable long-term solution. Oldbury 0.0 -1.5 -0.4 -2.1 The rugby pitch at Hydes Road Playing Fields in Wednesbury can act as an overspill for the main club site at Smethwick 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Wednesbury sports union if required. Facilities at this site should be made available to the club, particularly on peak 1.0 -2.5 -0.1 -3.5 match days and for training to ensure that pressure on pitches does not result in quality deterioration. This pitch is rarely used. Pressures on rugby pitches in the Warley area (from Warley Rugby Club) are greater than those in the Wednesbury area, with existing shortfalls measuring 1.5 pitches which will increase to 2.5 pitches. The current quality of facilities is higher than at Wednesbury, although this is likely to be primarily because the club has only recently expanded to include junior teams. While consultation and site visits highlight that the current quality of these facilities is good, these pitches are likely to begin to experience deterioration if additional facilities are not provided. The provision of a floodlit training area to reduce demand on match day facilities should therefore be considered a priority. Additional facilities may also be required if the recently increased level of demand is sustained. In light of targets to increase participation, and the need to facilitate the introduction of young people to rugby at an early age, consideration should be given to the provision of rugby pitches at school sites. This would provide opportunities for the rugby clubs in the area to use school facilities as pressures on club pitches increase, as well as ensuring that pupils are able to participate in rugby during school time. The Warley area should be considered a priority for new provision of school sites.
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Hockey in Sandwell Areas for Investigation Analysis of the provision of hockey across the borough indicates that overall, provision of pitches is sufficient to meet demand in quantitative terms. This however disguises localised deficiencies. The figures opposite reflect actual numbers of synthetic pitches required. It can be seen that provision of 1 additional pitch upto 2026 would be sufficient to meet the needs of Hockey players. Demand from football teams for synthetic pitches for training is considered separately.
Area George Salter High School currently meets the needs of the West Bromwich Hockey Club and Tividale School acts as an overspill facility for this club. Despite the adequacy of these facilities in terms of the degree to which they are fit for purpose, the traditional social element of hockey is lacking. Although there is not sufficient demand in this area to justify an additional facility for hockey, support should be given to the club to develop a small social clubhouse on or adjacent to the George Salter High School site. This is essential to ensure the ongoing development of hockey and to maintain the culture and social element of the sport.
Analysis of the current supply and demand for hockey across the borough as a whole disguises shortfalls of provision in the Wednesbury area generated by the presence of Wednesbury Hockey Club. New synthetic provision in this area is therefore required.
Hockey Provision 2007 Hockey Provision 2024 Current shortfalls of hockey in this area are likely to increase as participation and population grows. As indicated by Playing Pitch Methodology calculations for 2026, provision of one additional synthetic pitch should offset unmet demand and meet needs up to 2026.
Tipton 1.5 1.5 This should be located at either Wednesbury Sports Union (enabling links with the existing social facilities and other sports clubs in Wednesbury -0.8 -1.1 the union), or at a school site. Full community access to the facility outside school hours should be secured. Wood Green High School, a specialist sports college should be considered for this provision. Should the new facility be located at a school site, in light of West Bromwich 0.2 0 issues raised by West Bromwich HC, social facilities should be provided. Rowley Regis 00 Oldbury 0 0 In light of pressures on pitches in Sandwell for hockey, it should be ensured that hockey fixtures are prioritised over football training and casual bookings at peak match time. Smethwick 11 Ongoing demand for further synthetic facilities for hockey should be monitored. Although PPM calculations suggest that the provision of one additional facility will be sufficient, participation levels are particularly low in Sandwell MBC at the current time. Should initiatives to increase these participation levels be successful, an additional STP may be required. Full community access to sites should be secured.
NB: the key actions arising from the tables above are summarised overleaf; alongside timescales for the action. The actions focus on the Council, as the overall enabler of pitches in Sandwell.
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Sources of capital funding
6.55 Areas for improvement identified in the previous tables require either capital or revenue expenditure (or both). There are several potential sources of financial aid. These include:
• Football Foundation
• Sport England Community Investment Fund
• Rugby Football Foundation
• Community Club Development Fund
• National Lottery Funding.
Football Foundation
6.56 The Foundation is dedicated to revitalising the grass roots of the game, constructing modern football infrastructure creating facilities that are fit for the game in the 21st century. The maximum grant for a capital project is £1 million. Grants of this size will only be awarded in exceptional circumstances. The percentage level of support is typically around 50% but in exceptional circumstances could reach 90%.
• (See http://www.footballfoundation.org.uk/ for more information)
Sport England Community Investment Fund
6.57 The Sport England Community Investment Fund (http://www.sportengland.org/text/cif_guidance_notes.pdf) is used for funding applications over £5000. Projects that are eligible for funding are assessed against the priorities of the national framework for sport. However, decisions regarding funds are actually made by the nine regional sports boards and applications must also fit in with the regional funding criteria.
6.58 Sport England’s mission is to increase participation in sport and active recreation by 1% every year to 2020. It is committed to investing in a coherent system for community sport and promoting a consistent framework for how sport is organised at a local level. County Sports Partnerships have responsibility for achieving increases in participation within their area and it is therefore important that discussions about each project are held with the CSP.
6.59 Projects must:
• directly increase participation in priority groups
• have secured or have strong indication of securing significant levels of partnership funding
• come from areas of social deprivation and that particularly benefit isolated rural communities
• develop more than one sport or activity.
(See http://www.sportengland.org/ for more information)
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Rugby Football Foundation
6.60 In January 2003, the Rugby Football Union (RFU) announced the commencement of this fund. Community rugby clubs can apply for grants and/or interest-free loans to fund capital facility projects which contribute to the recruitment and retention of players. This funding is available to clubs participating at Level 5 or below.
6.61 There are two different elements to the fund:
• Ground Match Grant Scheme: this provides easy-to-access grant funding for capital playing projects which contribute to the recruitment and retention of players. A list of projects that qualify for a grant will be sent to clubs on request as part of the application pack. All projects that qualify for a grant also qualify for the loan (see below)
6.62 At present, clubs can apply for between £1,500 and £5,000, which they must equally match (i.e. 50:50). Clubs may only apply for one grant per project.
6.63 Interest-free loan schemes: the interest-free loan scheme provides loans to clubs to help finance capital projects which contribute to the recruitment and retention of players. The key features of the scheme are:
• loans will be interest-free (though if a club defaults on a capital payment, the whole loan will be subject to interest until the outstanding amounts are paid)
• the maximum loan available is £100,000
• the maximum loan period will be 15 years, including an initial two-year capital holiday
• security will be required for the loan scheme in the form of either a charge over property or personal guarantees.
6.64 Clubs may apply for both a grant and a loan for the same project (providing that the appropriate conditions are met). A club could, therefore, apply for a maximum grant of £5,000 (providing it matches it with £5,000 of other funding) and a maximum loan of £100,000. Grants and loans will be awarded by the Trustees of the Rugby Football Foundation.
The Big Lottery Fund
6.65 The Big Lottery Fund (BIG) hands out half the good causes money from the National Lottery. It is committed to bringing real improvements to communities and the lives of people most in need. There is a range of grants available. Listed below are some of them that are most applicable to funding sports projects and improvements to outdoor sports facilities and voluntary sports clubs. For more information on the programme visit the website at http://www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/index/
Awards for All
6.66 The Lottery Small Grants Scheme offers Awards for All grants of between £500 and £10,000 for small projects which involve people in their community. The Council could not directly apply for such funds but could work with clubs in order for them to apply.
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Parks for People
6.67 This fund is committing £90 million over the next three years to parks and gardens in England. It aims to improve local environments and quality of life as well as making a lasting impact on the lives of local people and the places where they live.
6.68 Grants will range from £250,000 to £5m however the main aim is for improvements to a green space used for informal recreation and enjoyment. 25% of the project costs would need to be raised by the Council themselves, including at least 5% cash from the Council’s own resources.
Reaching Communities
6.69 This lottery fund is about responding to the needs identified by communities, funding projects that help those most in need including people or groups who are hard to reach. It is a three-year programme that will give grants of more than £10,000 and up to £500,000, including a maximum of £50,000 for capital grants. The fund hopes to bring about the following changes:
• people having better chances in life, including being able to get better access to training and development to improve their life skills
• strong communities, with more active citizens, working together to tackle their problems
• improved rural and urban environments, which communities are better able to access and enjoy
• healthier and more active people and communities.
6.70 Reaching Communities has proven to be a very popular and highly competitive programme. Competition for funds is very high, and difficult decisions have to be made, often resulting in very good projects not being funded. For more information visit http://www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/prog_reaching_communities.htm?regioncode=- uk&progStatus=open&status=theProg&title=Reaching%20Communities
Landfill Tax Credit Scheme
6.71 The landfill tax credit scheme (LTCS) was introduced with the landfill tax in October 1996 and enables landfill site operators to donate up to 6.0 per cent of their landfill tax liability to environmental projects in return for a 90 per cent tax credit. The LTCS was designed to help mitigate the effects of landfill upon local communities. It encourages partnerships between landfill operators, their local communities and the voluntary and public sectors.
6.72 Landfill tax credits must be spent in compliance with the landfill tax regulations, which set the following objects for the LTCS:
• projects that involve reclaiming land, the use of which has been prevented by some previous activity
• projects that reduce or prevent pollution on land
• projects that provide or maintain public amenities or parks within 10 miles of a landfill site
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• delivery of biodiversity conservation for UK species habitats
• projects to restore or repair buildings for religious worship, or of architectural or historical interest within 10 miles of a landfill site
• projects fund the cost of administrative, financial or other similar services, supplied to other enrolled environmental bodies.
6.73 For further information on this scheme go to the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme website http://www.ltcs.org.uk/default.asp
Young People’s Fund
6.74 A further lottery funded programme is the Young People’s Fund. This is designed to support projects which provide opportunities for young people in deprived areas. The projects must show that they are contributing towards keeping young people active, healthy, safe, enjoying activities and making a positive contribution to the community.
6.75 Applicants to the Young People’s fund can be either young individuals, voluntary or community organisations. Grants between £250 and £5,000 are available to individuals aged between 11 and 25 years old. Community and voluntary organisations have been provided with a total of £40 million, to be divided into grants between £5,000 and £150,000 over a three-year period.
Sportsmatch
6.76 The Sportsmatch scheme is government funded and designed to match pound for pound funds raised. Funding is aimed at projects which aim to increase participation in sport at the grass root level and/or improve basic skills. Capital projects under £5,000 are considered but most of the annual £3.6 million pounds are aimed at revenue based projects. The maximum amount available is £50,000.
Lord Taveners
6.77 The Lord’s Taverners distribute funding for cricket projects through various County Cricket Boards. Grants of up to £6,000 are available for the installation of non-turf pitches and practice ends. The Council cannot apply for funds directly but could work with other local organizations to prepare such a bid.
Barclays Spaces for Sport
6.78 The Barclays Spaces for Sports scheme is an exciting new partnership between Barclays, Groundwork and the Football Foundation, providing £30 million over three years to create or improve sports facilities in communities across the UK.
6.79 Seven flagship sites per year will be delivered with matched funding from the Football Foundation. A further number of smaller sites will also be created, offering basketball, netball, tennis through to skateboard and BMX tracks.
6.80 Every site will be supplied with sports equipment with further support available to help the community get the most out of the new facilities.
6.81 In terms of site selection, Barclays Spaces for Sports is a closed Scheme, which means the general public are not being asked to send in applications for the sites. Instead, Barclays will use and build upon the existing local networks of Groundwork and Football Foundation to identify potential sites.
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Foundation for Sports and the Arts
6.82 The foundation for sports and the arts distribute monies collected by the football pools companies. The aim of the charity is to:
“increase participation in sports and the arts, especially amongst young people and those with more ability than resources”
6.83 Awards up to £100,000 have been awarded in the past, though such levels are unusual. It is not currently possible to make applications for football based projects.
Community Club Development Fund
6.84 This fund is distributed by Sport England but is actually funded directly from central government. £20 million was released to clubs in the period 2004 to 2006 and it is expected that further monies will be made available from 2007.
6.85 The criteria for successfully applying for funding includes:
• projects which provide enhanced facilities for sports at clubs with inadequate existing provision
• projects which are demonstrably linked to other NGB priority development work eg volunteering, coaching talent development and club/school links
• projects serving clusters (eg through a Beacon club infrastructure) meeting the needs of several clubs/sports
• clubs able to provide the greatest sporting and community benefit in terms of contributing to improved health, community cohesion, crime prevention etc
• clubs in areas of both sporting and greatest social deprivation.
Developers
6.86 Through Section 106 agreements (see earlier in this Section).
6.87 It is assumed that sufficient financial resources will not be available immediately to meet all the identified needs. To ensure strategic development of all the potential projects in the borough it is necessary to:
• give all partners, providers and users the opportunity to add to this long list of projects and ensure that it evolves as necessary throughout the course of this strategy
• develop a set of criteria against which projects can be judged, in order to assess which of the potential projects should be developed first
• make priorities against this criteria.
The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)
6.88 The DDA aims to end the discrimination that many people with disabilities face. This act gives people with disabilities rights in the areas of:
• employment
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• access to goods, facilities and services
• buying or renting land or property.
6.89 On 1 October 2004 the final stages of the goods, facilities and services provisions of Part III of the DDA came into force. The new duties will apply to all providers of services to the public where physical features make access to their services impossible or unreasonably difficult for people with disabilities.
6.90 The Disability Rights Commission (DRC) published the revised Code of Practice on this subject in February 2002. This statutory code, agreed by Parliament, provides detailed advice on the way the law will work, together with practical examples. This document can be obtained from www.drc-gb.org.
• The DRC list 18 types of services and facilities that are covered by the DDA, one of which is sport and leisure. Therefore, the Council should ensure that all their facilities comply with the DDA requirements. Some funding opportunities to help ensure facilities comply are shown below.
Children in Need
6.91 The BBC Children in Need Appeal gives grants to organisations with disadvantaged children and young people living in the United Kingdom. Applicants must be from properly constituted non-for-profit organisations, for example:
• self-help groups
• voluntary organisations
• registered charities.
6.92 This would make it unlikely that The Council could directly approach the fund, however it can encourage and assist disability groups in the area to apply to the fund. It should be noted that any application for funds must be for a project that starts within 12 months of the application date.
LloydsTSB foundation for England and Wales
6.93 The mission of this trust is:
• “to support and work in partnership with charitable organisation which help people, especially those who are disadvantaged or disabled, to play a fuller role in communities throughout England and Wales”
6.94 The trust does not fund Council’s directly and application would be best served through a sports club or charitable organisation. Grants can be between £500 and £10,000.
Peter Harrison Foundation
6.95 The foundation runs a nationwide programme entitled “opportunities through sport” and only accepts application from organisations that are:
• registered charities – or
• friendly societies or industrial provident societies – or
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• organisations whose charitable status is recognised by the Inland Revenue in Scotland or Northern Ireland.
6.96 The organisation will not fund projects that directly replace statutory funding or activities that are primarily the responsibility of central or local government. Applicants can apply for up to a maximum of 3 years of revenue support and projects that are likely to be successful should include a high degree of community use.
Summary and Conclusions
6.97 The summary and conclusions of this Playing Pitch Strategy will be finalised following the meeting (date to be confirmed) to discuss the findings of this study and to agree the priorities within the action plan. These priorities will then form the final recommendations.
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Tennis and bowls
Introduction and background
7.1 This section considers the provision of outdoor tennis and bowls in Sandwell. The Playing Pitch Methodology does not extend to the provision of these sports, so this section assesses the adequacy of provision for these sports setting out:
• background and context • supply and demand within Sandwell • key issues • priorities and recommendations. Bowls
7.2 The English Bowling Association governs the game of flat green outdoor bowls for men in England. There are thirty-five affiliated Counties, to which a total of 2,700 clubs are in membership nationwide. Approximately 132,000 players come under the jurisdiction of this Association.
7.3 The England Bowls Youth Development Scheme seeks to provide a pathway to enable children and young people to participate in the sport of bowls and to develop their potential to whatever appropriate level they so wish. The Scheme started in November 2000 with the introduction of a series of County Invitation Singles events followed by six Regional Schools of Excellence and then a National School of Excellence. Should this scheme be successful, demand for bowls in Sandwell may increase over the strategy period.
7.4 Sport England has invested almost £42 million of Lottery funding in bowls since 1994. This includes more than £38 million capital investment into new and improved facilities as well as further investment into the sport in the community.
Supply and Demand – Bowling in Sandwell 7.5 The assessment of outdoor bowls provision is underpinned by a comprehensive audit of all facilities within the borough. This reveals that there are a total of 19 bowling sites in the following locations:
• Farley Park • Victoria Park, Tipton • Hydes Road Playing Fields • Haden Hill Park • Thimblemill Recreation Centre • Warley Rugby Club • Dartmouth Bowling Club • The George Public House • Rowley Labour Club • Wednesbury Leisure Centre • Wernley Public House
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• Smethwick Cricket Club • Gate Inn • Langley Bowling Club • Old Cross Pub • Pheasant Public House • Londonderry Inn • Churchfield Tavern • Broomfield Bowling Club.
7.6 The distribution of bowling clubs within Sandwell is illustrated in figure 7.1.
7.7 Based on a local population of 282,904 the supply of bowling greens is therefore equivalent to 0.0671 bowling greens per 1,000 population (or 1 bowling green for every 14,890).
7.8 In order to measure the demand for facilities, questionnaires were sent to all clubs in the borough and discussions held with key stakeholders. In total only two questionnaires were returned from bowls clubs. Non-responding clubs were called to ascertain their views. This also presented local clubs with the opportunity to comment on the quality of existing facilities.
7.9 Consultation highlights that:
• the biggest on-going concerns of bowling clubs relate to funding and membership recruitment and retention. By way of example, Churchfield Tavern Bowling Club Members manage and maintain the costs of running the club and green to include fertilizers, mowing, painting, licence agreement and public liability insurance. • the majority of clubs had capacity to sustain a greater number of members; indicating that supply is sufficient to meet existing demand and that there is scope to accommodate more players.
7.10 Site visits were undertaken to bowling greens throughout the borough. The overall quality of bowling greens was perceived to be good. High quality was particularly evident at private bowling facilities.
7.11 Figure 7.1 (overleaf) shows the location of each of the bowling greens with a 720- metre buffer around each site. This buffer illustrates those areas that are within a 20-minute walk of the facility. The 20-minute walk time is based on Sport England’s Choice and Opportunity Indicator, which measures the percentage of the population that are within 20 minutes travel time of a range of three different sports facility types of which one has achieved a quality assured standard. For urban areas such as Sandwell, this should be based on a walk time.
7.12 In addition to the stock of outdoor bowls facilities, indoor bowling facilities can be found at Tipton Sport Academy. These facilities are available to the public outside of school hours.
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Figure 7.1 - Bowls provision in Sandwell
Key The main findings to emerge from figure 7.1 are as follows: District Boundary • residents in the south east of Sandwell Bowling Facilities (Oldbury and Smethwick) are particularly 20 minute walk time buffer (960m) well served by outdoor bowls facilities. However, within this locality sites are not evenly distributed, meaning that whilst some residents are within a 20 minute walk of numerous facilities, others are outside of the catchment area of any. This is particularly the case to the east of Smethwick. • the area of Sandwell where residents currently have to travel the furthest to reach an outdoor bowls facility within the borough is the north east. Within this locality, all residents are outside of a 20-minute walk time of outdoor bowls provision. • with the exception of the three bowling greens in Wednesbury that serve a similar area (and those cited above in the Smethwick and Oldbury areas), the remaining sites within Sandwell are well distributed and serve unique catchment areas – maximising the number of residents who are within a 20 minute walk time of a bowling green.
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Tennis
7.13 The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) is the national governing body for tennis. 35,000 courts now exist across the country, including local authority, schools, clubs, commercial and hotels. There are 1,345 indoor courts and about 250 clay courts (12 of those indoor).
7.14 There has been a 55 per cent increase in the number of regular junior tennis players since 2003 and currently 464,000 juniors play regularly (at April 06). The average age of those starting to play tennis is now below 12 compared to 17 in 2000.
7.15 Tennis was identified as the ninth most popular participation sport in England by a Sport England survey in November 2006. The Active People Survey showed that there were 860,000 people over the age of 16 playing tennis once a month. Based on 2001 census population figures, there are 46.93m people in the United Kingdom. Applying the Active People Survey findings suggests a participation rate equivalent to 1.83% of the population.
7.16 Based on the local population of Sandwell and assuming that the nationwide participate rate is broadly applicable, this would suggest that in the region of 5,177 people over the age of 16 in Sandwell are playing tennis once a month.
7.17 Tennis is one of four focus sports managed by the sports development team in Sandwell. The number of players within the tennis development programme has increased rapidly, due to retaining a strong coaching team, led by a professional Head Tennis Coach. In anticipation of the success of the SD programme, demand for tennis in Sandwell is likely to increase.
7.18 Sandwell has high quality public indoor tennis centres at Tipton Sports Academy – which are not only local but also regional and national significance. The Sports Academy has recently become an integral part of the Lawn Tennis Association's (LTA) National Performance Programme. This is a comprehensive national strategy for developing outstanding tennis talent and raising standards in British tennis. The LTA is constructing a national network of independent, high-quality training environments for players with the desire and ability to compete at the highest level. The National Accredited Performance Programme (NAPP) is already operating in 30 clubs around Britain, of which Tipton Sports Academy is one. Each club must have at least four players who fulfil the criteria for being of 'national' standard. Tipton Sports Academy currently has 10.
7.19 The centre has 6 indoor cushioned acrylic and 6 outdoor acrylic tennis courts, which have floodlights. There is also a kid’s zone mini tennis area and a knock up wall. Of the outdoor tennis courts, Tipton Tennis Club hire 2 courts all year round.
7.20 Activities available at the centre include: pay and play, junior tennis coaching, mini tennis (children aged 4-11), raw tennis (children aged 10-18), performance squads, “schools out’ fun tennis sessions for primary & secondary children, adult coffee mornings and 50+ mix in sessions, adult coaching groups, community tennis sessions, and individual tennis lessons.
7.21 They also link with many schools within Sandwell as part of an outreach programme. This involves sending coaches into schools to run tennis sessions within curriculum time and at after school clubs. Children are then encouraged to continue to participate in tennis by joining the programme at Tipton Sports Academy.
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Supply and Demand – Tennis in Sandwell
7.22 The assessment of outdoor tennis provision reveals that there are a total of 26 tennis courts in the following locations (this figure excluded sites provided at school sites such as Dartmouth High and Alexandra High):
• Britannia Park • West Smethwick Park • Victoria Park • Brunswick Park • Red House Park • Wednesbury Sports Union • Old Hill Tennis Club • Tipton Sports Academy
7.23 Based on a local population of 282,904 the supply of outdoor tennis courts is equivalent to 0.09 courts per 1,000 population (or 1 court for every 10,881 residents).
7.24 The distribution of tennis courts within Sandwell is illustrated in figure 7.2.
7.25 In order to measure the demand for facilities, questionnaires were sent to all clubs in the City. Non-responding clubs were called to ascertain their views. This also presented local clubs with the opportunity to comment on the quality of existing facilities.
7.26 Key consultation findings include:
• membership at both Tipton Sport Academy and Wednesbury Sports Union has grown over the last five years. The Tennis Development Programme is growing to the level where more indoor courts and court time are required. This increased demand from the development programme means there is less scope for casual access for the public. • the quality of the outdoor courts at Tipton were noted to be average, whilst the ancillary accommodation was noted as being very good (car parking, clubhouse, spectator seating etc). Similarly the quality of the outdoor courts at Wednesbury Sports Union (not floodlit) were considered to be average. • the main issue identified by Wednesbury Sports Union was the lack of external funding available and membership recruitment and retention. Wednesbury Sports Union future plans include the provision of floodlights • although the facilities at Tipton Sports Academy were praised (particularly the indoor facilities), the provision of facilities for the remainder of Sandwell needs to improve. There are a few tennis clubs in Sandwell with reasonable facilities, and some schools also have good tennis facilities. If tennis participation is to grow further in this borough, easier access to further/improved facilities is required.
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Figure 7.2 - Tennis provision in Sandwell Accessibility Key Figure 7.2, shows the location of each of the tennis courts in District Boundary the borough with a 20-minute walk time buffer illustrated from Tennis Facilities each. As per outdoor bowls this is based on Sport England’s 20 min walk time Choice and Opportunity indicator. buffer (960m) The main findings to be derived are as follows:
• the majority of publicly accessible outdoor tennis provision is located on the periphery of Sandwell. As a consequence, residents in central Sandwell currently have to travel much further than a 20-minute walk time to access an outdoor tennis facility. • four of the eight tennis facilities in Sandwell serve overlapping catchment areas.
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Conclusions and recommendations
7.27 Outdoor bowls facilities are well dispersed across Sandwell, albeit that a cluster of provision can be found in the south east. Although there is high usage levels at the majority of sites there is deemed to be the capacity at most sites to allow additional usage of facilities. Provision of further sites should be driven by clear localised demand. Moreover, the Council should look to protect current sites, whether public or private, and to maintain the level of quality of its own greens and ancillary facilities.
7.28 In terms of outdoor tennis provision, there are large areas of Sandwell that are outside of the relevant accessibility catchment (consider to be equivalent to a 20 minute walk time). A number of tennis sites are located close to one another, meaning that residents in this locality are particularly well served, whilst other residents cannot feasibly consider joining the club due to access difficulties. As a consequence, new provision should be prioritised in areas that are currently deficient in terms of tennis courts and where there is clear local demand. The Council should look to work with schools to open up access to their facilities rather than provide new ones – particularly given that consultation with Tipton Sports Academy reveals that some schools have good tennis facilities, whilst other publicly accessible sites were thought to be in need of improvements. If tennis participation is to grow further in this borough, easier access to further/improved facilities is required.
7.29 With regards to both outdoor bowls and tennis, monies raised from developer contributions should be used for increasing the quality of existing facilities and, should the quantity of monies allow, for the long term planning of new facilities in areas currently without access.
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