Sport Wales, in partnership with Welsh Government, has launched a new fund, ‘A Place for Sport’, with up to £1m available for sports clubs and organisations across Wales.
The fund will support projects seeking to improve, protect or create new sporting facilities.
Applications are invited from community sport groups and can include things such as floodlights, new multi-sport surfaces, expansion or improvements to existing facilities, etc. The detailed fund criteria can be found on the Sport Wales website.
Applications must be made online by 28 June 2019 and, importantly, the projects need to be completed by the end of March 2020.
Brian Davies, Director of Performance at Sport Wales said:
“It’s known that having the right facilities in the right place can have a big impact on a person’s experience of sport and affects the likelihood of them participating on a regular basis. This fund will help sports clubs, organisations and facilities across Wales to create environments at the heart of our communities for participation, enjoyment and fulfilment.”
“There should be a place for sport for everyone. By applying to this fund, you could give your club or group the opportunity to create or enhance a facility that will have a lasting impact on new and existing participants for years to come.”
Sam Warburton OBE, former Wales and British & Irish Lions captain said:
“I was fortunate enough to train with excellent facilities growing up in Cardiff. However, I know that not all sports or athletes are that lucky so it’s important we improve the facilities across Wales to encourage the next generation to have fun and achieve their potential. I strongly urge anyone involved with grassroots facilities to apply to this new fund so that they can be developed and make a real difference to the whole community.” Sam’s first club was Rhiwbina Rugby Club and he’s now an ambassador for the Cardiff Blues Community Foundation.
The new capital fund for sports facilities in Wales demonstrates a firm commitment from the Welsh Government to help modernise sports facilities that support the vision for an active nation where everyone has lifelong enjoyment of sport.
Dafydd Elis -Thomas, Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism said:
“Modern, accessible and sustainable facilities are important if we are to encourage and support people of all ages to lead healthy and active lives. I am delighted we have been able to identify some funding to create this new fund and I look forward to seeing some exciting applications.
“We know the positive impact sport can have on our health and wellbeing, whether it’s as a participant, a volunteer or a spectator. Sport also plays an important part in binding communities, giving young people aspiration, raising our international profile and creating economic benefits for Wales. With this investment, we hope we will create a place for sport for more people.”
To apply for funding, please visit http://sport.wales/funding–support.aspx or if you have any specific questions about the fund, please call 0300 3003130.
