Wandsworth Council is set to inject £30 million into its leisure infrastructure over the next five years, aiming to boost physical activity and enhance community well-being across the borough. The investment plan, discussed at a recent Environment Committee meeting, focuses on protecting and improving existing facilities, from leisure centres to parks and playgrounds. The plan has been developed within the context of the council's Decade of Renewal commitments, and aims to enhance physical activity across the borough through initiatives under Active People, Active Communities, and Active Environments. The council aims to ensure equitable access to these improved leisure facilities for all residents, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds or with disabilities.
The funding is a direct result of the Wandsworth Moves Together strategy, approved in July 2024, which prioritises active people, active communities, and active environments.
According to council documents, at least £10 million of the £30 million investment is expected to generate a positive financial return, in addition to the social benefits. It is expected that at least £10m of this investment will provide a positive return over and above the financing costs. The council aims to ensure that leisure assets remain financially sustainable while increasing participation in physical activities.
Key areas of focus for the investment include:
- Protecting existing infrastructure: Ensuring facilities are safe, accessible, and compliant with regulations.
- Enhancing leisure centres: Upgrading health and fitness provisions, improving swimming facilities, and enhancing accessibility.
- Improving playing pitches: Addressing shortfalls in pitch numbers and quality, and exploring opportunities for new artificial pitches.
- Enhancing parks and open spaces: Installing new trim trails, cycle facilities, and maintenance stations.
- Prioritising sustainability: Aligning all investments with the council's goal to become carbon neutral by 2030.
The council has already committed funds to several leisure projects. Funding for Leisure Infrastructure had already been committed, and this year has seen the opening of two new Padel Courts at King George's Park, improvements to tennis courts at Barn Elms Sports Centre and Battersea Park Millennium Arena, funding secured for the Nine Elms Community and Health Facility, emissions cut at Wandle Recreation Centre through investments in Air Source Heat Pumps, and work started on grass playing pitch improvements.
Councillor Judy Gasser, Cabinet Member for the Environment, emphasized the importance of the investment, stating that the council is committed to doing everything we possibly can to meet our climate targets and to support our residents through the changes.
The Leisure Infrastructure Plan is a key component of the council's broader strategy to create a more sustainable and active borough. The Environment Committee has endorsed the plan, and it will now move forward for consideration by the Executive.
