Funding awarded to grassroots sport facilities

991 community projects across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have been awarded funding through the Multi-Sport Grassroots Facilities Programme in 2025/26.

The money will be spent on new all-weather pitches, extended playing hours through floodlighting, modern changing facilities designed to welcome underserved groups like women and girls.

It is hoped that the new and refurbished facilities will enable families to stay active on their doorsteps.

At least half of all funding will go directly to the 30% most deprived communities in the UK.

To ensure broader participation beyond football, at least 40 per cent of funded projects must have a multi-sport offer.

Applications are now open in England for the next £85 million investment for 2026/27 for grassroots sports facilities. Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland will follow.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, said: "This is sport delivering for the nation. Every pound we invest in grassroots facilities is a pound that takes pressure off our NHS, supports mental and physical health, and opens doors for new community members to benefit from sport - like women and girls who’ve been shut out for too long.

"We’re supporting communities that have made do with run-down pitches and crumbling changing rooms for years. This government is turning that around – building the facilities that get people active, bring communities together, and nurture the next generation of sporting talent."

Sport England Chief Executive, Simon Hayes said: "Community sport sits at the heart of our society. It brings people together across the UK, helping them to connect, have fun and live healthier lives. But none of that is possible if there aren’t enough pitches and facilities, designed in the right way and located in the right places. We therefore very much welcome today’s announcement and look forward to working with the Government and our partners to ensure as many people as possible from all over the country have the chance to participate."