Councils and clubs need to work together in a tight funding climate, say the Central Council for Physical Recreation:
The future of local authority sport in a tightened funding climate is a major concern to sports’ governing bodies. Many clubs depend on local authority facilities, whilst development and coaching posts are often co-funded by governing bodies and local authorities.
Whilst County Sports Partnerships are making connections between local authority provision and club sport, there is still a sense that club and council sport are ‘different’. Yet surely a badminton club in a council sports centre, and an asset based tennis club offering pay and play are equally club sport and local authority provision?
Recognising this interdependence can reduce costs to authorities, and increase sustainability for clubs. For instance, how many outdoor changing rooms in your borough need a refresh, but have not made the top of the list? Asking a user-group to maintain this in return for secure usage would provide a club base and make savings for the council.
And its not just about the sports budget. Traditionally sports clubs have received discretionary rate relief, but some authorities are now withdrawing this. With clubs surviving on average surpluses of just £1,300, this is a real threat to survival. Registering as a Community Amateur Sports Club secures 80% mandatory rate relief paid for by central government, saving both club and council money. Council officers can help clubs make this switch.
Its about more than money too – sport must be prioritised in the revised planning guidance for a ‘natural and healthy environment’, and the Community Infrastructure Levy needs to contribute to sporting infrastructure.
With cuts looming, clubs and councils must help each other to weather the storm, and local authority sports teams must take advantage of other policies that can support their work.
Tags: CASC, clubs, councils, funding, investment, local, partnership, sport, taking part
