Wandsworth (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Wandsworth Council is investing £24 million in leisure centres, expanding concessions, supporting SEND residents, women, and girls, providing grants to local sports groups, and developing facilities to increase borough-wide participation.
As My London News reported, Wandsworth Council is investing £24 million in its leisure centres over the next 10 years. The move is part of the borough’s new plan. The council said the strategy, approved in June 2024, has already made progress in its first year.
They mentioned that a major step has been the launch of the UK’s “most generous and compassionate” concession scheme. It offers free or discounted access to leisure centres and other council services for residents on low incomes. More than 6,500 people have signed up so far.
How is Wandsworth Council improving sports access and inclusion across the Borough?
The council has also worked to improve facilities and services. A 10-year contract with Places Leisure will manage the leisure centres and provide ongoing investment. Services at Roehampton Sports and Fitness Centre and Wandle Recreation Centre have been redesigned to better serve the community.
The council has started parkrun events at Battersea Park and improved playgrounds. Changes, including those to facilities, services, and community initiatives, aim to provide more outdoor opportunities for families and for residents to be physically active and support health and wellbeing right across Wandsworth.
Wandsworth Council has revealed its plans for the 2nd year of the Wandsworth Moves Together strategy, focusing on improving access and inclusion in sport and physical activity. The council said it wants all residents to benefit from an active lifestyle, no matter their age, ability, or background.
Volunteers will be recruited to mentor people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND. The council will also expand discounts for young disabled residents and launch a small grants programme to encourage more women and girls to engage in sporting activities.
The authority said it will provide grants to local sports organisations to help them grow and reach more residents. Plans are also underway to identify sites for new 3G football pitches and to offer funding for schools to open their facilities to the wider community.