News

Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Chair of the LGA’s Culture, Tourism and Sport Board, responds to today's tourism sector deal announcement by the Prime Minister.

“Many of the facilities run by councils are ageing, particularly swimming pools, and could be updated to better meet the needs of communities and be more energy efficient and cost-effective to run."

“The survey results are concerning, and highlight the importance of helping children to be active during this period to support their physical and mental wellbeing. Councils are working hard to keep parks and green spaces open and available for this, and by implementing active travel routes to support safe cycling and walking.”

“We urge Sport England to work with the Government to also secure grant funding for these organisations."

“Alongside other partners, councils have also made good progress in improving children’s health, from health visitors supporting new parents to weight management services."

It is positive that children and young people’s overall activity levels have remained stable across 2022-23.

"Councils as leaders of place have a huge role to play in delivering place-based solutions that reflects the unique needs of their communities and geographies."

“Councils are working hard to try and ensure sport and leisure facilities are available once national restrictions are eased and will have a key role to play in realising this Strategy’s ambitions.”

Local government plays a critical role in delivering sport and fitness activities and maintaining the UK’s leisure infrastructure. It is fantastic to see so many places reopening and welcoming back their communities.

This is an exciting plan that will enable the right support and funding to be directed to places that need it most, in a collaborative and targeted way. This includes opening up funding opportunities for small community organisations which often play a vital role within their communities.