The legacy of Team GB’s success during this summer’s Tokyo Olympics risks being lost without further investment in grassroots and community sport facilities, the LGA has warned.
Councils provide the majority of public swimming pools and leisure facilities. However, they are expensive to build and maintain, with increased pressures to divert funding from sports to fund statutory services, such as adult social care.
Three in five swimming pools and 63 per cent of main sports halls are past their expected lifespans or overdue refurbishment, resulting in some facilities remaining closed after the pandemic and in need of costly repairs.
The LGA is calling for a second round of National Leisure Recovery Funding, worth £700 million, to keep facilities operational, and longer-term investment through the upcoming Spending Review to refurbish the estate, raise environmental standards, and ensure services are future-proofed.
Investment in sport and leisure facilities is essential in increasing the development of young people, preparing them with vital life skills and healthy habits.
Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Chair of the LGA’s Culture, Tourism and Sport Board, said: “The country is hugely proud of the tremendous achievements of our athletes at the Tokyo Olympics. Their success could lead to a legacy of inspiring young people to take up sport and healthy lifestyle habits.
“We must take action now if we want to ensure this success is repeated, and that young people from all backgrounds can aspire to compete in future Games.
“Local leisure facilities play a vital role in ensuring our communities can get healthy and active, but they are also the starting point in discovering bright new sporting talent, that can go on to represent Team GB on the world stage.”