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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.

"To capitalise on this success and level up the health of the nation, particularly those in the most economically deprived areas, it’s vital that Government, key partners and stakeholders work together with councils to create healthy places with accessible green spaces and affordable sport and leisure opportunities."

"The LGA has long made the case for the importance of green and outdoor spaces for people’s health and wellbeing. This funding is a positive step and will enable more local authorities to create spaces to enable communities to build activity in their daily lives."

Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Chair of the LGA’s Culture, Tourism and Sport Board responds to the Government’s announcement in the Spending Review of funding for the UK’s culture, tourism and sport sectors.

“Councils need a fair and sustainable funding settlement in the upcoming Spending Review to ensure they can continue to fund these essential community services and deliver against the Government’s plans for Levelling Up.”

Long term investment in public sport and leisure facilities is key to supporting efforts to tackle health inequalities exposed by the pandemic, councils say today.

Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Chair of the LGA’s Culture, Tourism and Sport Board responds to Arts Council England’s new Delivery Plan.

The new report, Securing the Future of Public Sport and Leisure Services published in partnership with the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) and Chief Cultural and Leisure Officers Association (CLOA) evaluates the current state of public sport and leisure services and sets out recommendations to ensure the survival and development of the sector.  Councils are currently the biggest investor in sport, leisure, parks and green spaces, spending £1.1 billion per year in England. They are unique in what they offer for communities, providing lifelong opportunities for all to be

“The LGA is pleased this new report recognises the importance of local authorities to tourism, both as leaders of place and as direct deliverers of tourist attractions."

Investment in sport and leisure facilities, from financial support, to strategic partnership working between central and local government and community organisations is essential in increasing the development of young people, preparing them with vital life skills and healthy habits.