Playing Pitch Strategy & Sports Facilities Update Paper - Test Valley Borough Council - Test ...
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Playing Pitch Strategy & February 2022 Sports Facilities Update Paper Test Valley Borough Council
1. Introduction Governing Bodies for Cricket, Football,
Hockey and Rugby.
• Any development of a specific sport or
particular format of a sport;
2.3 An action plan was prepared for each • How the PPS has been applied and the
1.1 The Test Valley Borough Playing Pitch strategy, based on the understanding of lessons learnt; and
Strategy (PPS) and Sports Facilities current and future needs for the sports
Strategy (SFS) were approved in 2020. In and activities. The actions involve a range • Any new or emerging issues and
order to ensure these strategies remain of partner organisations, with some opportunities.
up to date, they are kept under review. focusing on specific sites, whilst others
are relevant across the Borough.
1.2 This update paper brings together the 2.5 This update paper seeks to bring
relevant information to ensure the PPS 2.4 Sport England’s PPS guidance1 highlights information together to cover all of the
and SFS are kept up to date. the importance of keeping the strategies above points. It focuses on providing
up to date and robust, including through an update on progress in delivering
1.3 This document provides an update up to regular reviews. Such reviews should be the action plans, as well as identifying
and including December 2021. undertaken with the input of the partner emerging issues and opportunities. It
organisations that formed part of the has been prepared with input from the
2. Background
steering group for the preparation of Council, Sport England, Energise Me, and
the strategy. It is recommended that the the Governing Bodies for Cricket, Football,
following matters are considered as part Hockey and Rugby.
of the review:
2.6 As part of this update, the assessment
2.1 The PPS & SFS were produced to provide • How the delivery of the of the quality of pitches has not been
an assessment of sport and recreation recommendations and action plan has reviewed; nor has the supply and demand
facility needs across the Borough and progressed and any changes required been recalculated. But the document
understand how this may change in the to the priority afforded to each action does include a section which provides
future. The PPS looked specifically at the (e.g. the priority of some may increase information on supply changes since the
pitch based sports of cricket, football, following the delivery of others);
last PPS, and an anecdotal update from
hockey and rugby. The SFS generally focus National Governing Bodies on demand
on those sports and activities that may • Any changes to particularly important
in 2021 which looks at how teams have
include a need for built sports facilities sites and/or clubs in the area (e.g. the
most used or high quality sites for a changed during their first season return
such as sports halls and swimming pools. post Covid restriction.
However, the two strategies need to be particular sport) and other supply and
considered together. demand information, what this may
2.7 It is recognised that the Covid-19
mean for the overall assessment work
pandemic will have had an effect on sport,
2.2 In preparing the strategies, input and the key findings and issues;
leisure and recreation activities. It would
was sought from local clubs, parish therefore be appropriate to defer any
councils, schools and a range of other review of the baseline until circumstances
organisations. The work was co-ordinated become more settled as we move past
by a steering group including the Council, 1 Playing Pitch Strategy Guidance: An approach to recovery.
Sport England, Energise Me, and the developing and delivering a playing pitch strategy, Sport
England, 2013.
2
3. Drivers 3.4 More information on the next Local Plan
is available at: www.testvalley.gov.uk/
planning-and-building/planningpolicy/
3.8 In 2020 and 2021, we have seen formal
and informal sport being forced to
operate under heavy restriction and for
for Sport and local-development-framework most sports, there have been times where
its play has been banned altogether by
Covid - 19
Recreation
law.
3.5 It would be remiss not to note the 3.9 At the time of starting to prepare this
significant impact that Covid-19 has update, restrictions were still in place
had on sport and participation since which impacted participation, play, and
The Local Plan the documents were released in 2020. spectate sport and active recreation. And
Therefore this initial update will not although sport now returns to “normal”
3.1 The adopted Local Plan remains the deal with a recalculation of supply and rules, the long term impact and behaviour
same as when the Playing Pitch Strategy demand but will focus on significant change is here to stay.
and Sports Facilities Strategy were changes to the Borough’s sporting
prepared, namely the Revised Local Plan infrastructure and review progress made 3.10 That said there have been packages
Development Plan Document 2011 – to date on the documents’ action plans. of support created to help the sport
2029. and activity sector through these
3.6 Coronavirus is likely to be one of the most unprecedented times, which have
3.2 Within the Local Plan, chapter 8 disruptive events for sport and recreation supported clubs and organisations across
considers the theme of leisure, health for at least a generation. Although there is the Borough, these include;
and wellbeing. The Council is continuing some information available which looks to
to prepare the next Local Plan for the capture this disruption, the full impact is • Sport England’s Return to Play Fund
Borough, with a refined Issues and still emerging.
Options consultation having taken place • Sport England’s National Leisure
in 2020. 3.7 The UK Active 2021 paper “ A decade of Recovery Fund
change” provides an insight into how
3.3 As set out within the objectives of the two people’s habits and attitudes to activity • RFU : Rugby Union Winter Survival
strategies, they will provide an evidence has changed already since Coronavirus Fund
base for the next Local Plan in relation first took hold. This research, alongside
to playing pitches and sports facilities the data that emerges in the years to • RFU: Immediate Support Fund
including protecting and enhancing the come sets out a key evidence point which
existing provisions and informing the should be considered when looking at • Test Valley Borough Council: Councillor
approach to improving and enhancing how activity is delivered. The Council and Grant
facilities to include accounting for changes other stakeholders will continue to follow
in population and demographics. The the research as it emerges. • ECB : Return to Cricket Fund
timescales for preparing the next Local
Plan were updated in September 2021. • ECB : Inspired to Play Fund
• UK Government’s Small Business
Grant.
3
3.11
Strategy Development
New strategies have emerged in 2021
4. Supply and
which will support the delivery of the
action plans in addition to those already Demand overview
mentioned in the original documents,
these are ;
4.1 In 2019 a full supply and demand 4.2 The table below details the secured use
• Sport England’s 10 year strategy assessment was completed as part of pitch supply for 2019, 2020 and 2021/22.
“Uniting the Movement”. the strategy development works. The The increase in pitch supply is attributed
assessment concluded that there was to the opening of Abbotswood in 2020
• Energise Me’s “We can be active” adequate provision of grass pitches for all and the anticipated opening of Ganger
strategy which replaces their current sports, although work could be done to Farm and Picket Piece in 2022 which
physical activity strategy later in the
improve the quality of some of the pitch brings an additional 5 football pitches
year.
stock in Test Valley. (adult / junior), and increases the AGP
supply for both 3G and sand dressed
• The FA’s “Local Football Facilities Plan
for Test Valley” (LFFP) which closely pitches in Test Valley by one each.
aligns with the PPS action plan.
Table 1: Secured community use pitch supply
• The RFU 2021 England Rugby Strategy.
Sports pitches 2019 2020 2022
• ECB Strategy Inspiring Generations
2020-24. Cricket 26 26 26
• ECB Facilities Strategy 2021.
Football 107 109* 114**/***
• UK Actives’ 2021 report The Decade of
Hockey 5 5 6**
Change for public sector Leisure.
Rugby 11 11 11**
3.12 In addition to these, the Community
Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and Community AGP (full size sand) 5 5 6**
Asset Fund (CAF) have both had a
significant impact in the Council’s ability AGP (3G full size) 3 3 4**
to progress projects in the actions plans,
specific CIL and CAF support will be
* Abbotswood ** Ganger Farm *** Picket Piece
identified in latter sections of this update
report
4
Hockey
4.3 Hockey has seen an increase in the
number of players across Test Valley in
2021 with a big increase of 50+ players
at Romsey which might be attributed to
the anticipated new facility there. Trojans
Hockey Club have been invited to join
the first cohort of clubs in the country
to work towards Talent Centre (37 clubs
nationally). This progression will further
enhance the need for investment in the
facilities and a second pitch at the club
as there is a predicted further junior
growth as centre of excellence within the
Borough. Andover Hockey Club remains
stable in terms of numbers and is looking
at the NGB initiative Hockey Heroes to
target 5-8 year olds in the local schools
further boosting their junior numbers.
Charlton athletics track post refurbishment
This information shows steady growth
and development pathways for Hockey in
Test Valley, where clubs can be supported Rugby the need for balanced opportunity for
though access to high quality facilities. rugby participation in the north of Test
4.5 With Rugby, uptake has remained stable Valley
Football across all sections since the last PPS was
released. With Trojans fielding 5 senior Cricket
4.4 For football, there has been a fairly teams (3 male / 2 female), Andover Rugby
significant increase in teams across the Club fielding 4 senior teams (3 male / 1 4.6 Cricket is arguably the grass pitch sport
Borough with some teams having to female) and Romsey Rugby Club fielding which has been impacted the least by
be displaced outside of the Borough 2 senior teams (2 male) this season. Covid-19. Its summer season, and the
for match play. In October 2021 there Youth take up has also remained resilient abundance of space on a cricket pitch has
were around 300 teams registered against Covid 19. But with the increase meant the perceived risk of transmission
in Test Valley, this is an increase of in planned facilities in the south of the is much lower. Clubs have adapted to
approximately 100 teams since the PPS Borough in 2022 it is anticipated that restricted access to pavilions for match
and LFFP data was released in 2019/2020. rugby participation should increase as the teas, but it is hoped that the 2022 season
This information shows the demand southern clubs development pathways will see a full return to normal.
for football seems to be un impacted to have more opportunities to expand into
Covid 19 and that demand for high quality new facilities. Alongside this development
football pitches continues to grow in Test of participation opportunities in the south
Valley. of Test Valley it is important to consider
5
5. Updates on the 5.4 Romsey Rugby Club are in the process
of securing a new home at Ganger Farm,
final arrangements are being made prior
5.9 Preparations continue for the adoption
and opening of Ganger Farm, Romsey,
which will see a 3G pitch, adult football
Action Plans to the Council’s adoption of the site. But
it is anticipated that the club will transfer
pitch and multiple mini pitches open for
use by the local football clubs in 2022.
to the new site at some point in the 2022 Despite best endeavours the adoption
ready to start their 22/23 season. The of the site has not been achieved,
5.1 Appendix 1 and 2 of this update report club’s lease on their current clubhouse at and the site remains in the ownership
give detailed updates for each of the Romsey Sports Centre will stay in place of the developers Barratt Homes. In
50 short, medium and long term action until the club relocates. the meantime TVBC have opened a
published as part of the 2020 strategies. temporary floodlit training area at
However the information below gives an 5.5 Andover Rugby Club has completed the Hunts Farm to help accommodate the
overview of the most significant progress delivery of their project to floodlight the additional training demand created by the
points from both strategies and sets out two pitches at their home ground, The anticipated opening of Ganger Farm.
key achievements in 2020 and 2021. Goodship Ground at Foxcotte Park. The
project was funded from the RFU’s Capital 5.10 Broughton Football Club has successfully
Investment programme, the Council’s CAF received a significant amount of funding
programme and the club themselves. towards their plans to upgrade their
Rugby Action Plan Update onsite pavilion. As with the Trojans
5.6 The focus of this action will now reflect project this funding came from the TVBC
5.2 All three of the Borough Rugby clubs have that floodlight pitches are now in situ CIL funding stream, and its success was
made significant steps to improve their and therefore work to further increase attributed to the evidence of need as
club infrastructure in the past few years, capacity for the club should focus on demonstrated in the 2020 PPS strategy.
in addition to this the RFU have partnered improving drainage, the acquisition of The club continue to fund raise for the
with the GMA (grounds maintenance land or the provision of a rugby AGP remaining funds.
association) on a project to work with [artificial grass pitch] as a medium term
clubs across the region to assess and action. The club retain their lead for this. 5.11 North Baddeley Parish Council has
improve their pitch quality / capacity. received funding from the Council’s
Football Action Plan Update Councillor grant scheme and have
5.3 Trojans has secured additional land recently had FA funding approved from
adjacent to their site on a 35 year lease 5.7 Since the strategy was released, the the grass pitch maintenance fund to
to increase pitch capacity. The club have Borough Council has adopted and opened support improvements to the pitches
also received significant contributions Abbotswood Sports Ground, a two pitch onsite.
towards the redevelopment of their football site in Romsey. Which is shown in
club house which is currently in the pre the table 1 above. 5.12 The FA’s Local Football Facilities Plan
application phase of works. TVBC support was launched in 2020 and continues
for this project was facilitated by the 5.8 The Council have also carried out to identify priority projects for FA/
strong evidence of need supplied in the specialist drainage works to the junior FF investment, including the North
2020 strategies which formed part of the pitches at Hunts Farm in Timsbury, Baddesley project mentioned above.
club’s funding applications to the Council’s further works to combine the two
CAF (Community Asset Fund) and CIL drainage systems are still required to
(Community Infrastructure Levy). close out the action in full.
6
5.13 The FA’s new digital process “pitch power”
for site assessments is being used to
support clubs / sites pitch maintenance
projects for clubs identified within the
LFFP.
Cricket Action Plan Update
5.14 The ECB report that following on from the
successful All Stars Cricket programme
(ages 5-8) a new national programme
has launched for the next age range
up to further widen access to the sport Hunts Farm training area
(Dynamos Cricket).
5.18 Although listed as a short term priority 5.21 Ampfield Parish Council received a
5.15 A new competition The Hundred has also in the PPS action plan there has been significant CAF grant in 2019/20 for
been launched which was well received limited interest and use of the non turf works to their pavilion and parking
nationally over the summer months. pitches already installed in Test Valley. infrastructure which will benefit Ampfield
There is also a drive nationally to improve Therefore the supply and demand for Cricket Club, this project was identified in
Safeguarding, Equality, Diversity and this type of pitch should be investigated the 2020 PPS strategy development work
Inclusion in cricket. An interest in indoor before any additional stock is considered. and contributed towards the evidence
cricket provision in Test Valley is also a Actions which include the installation of base of the funding application.
new opportunity the ECB are keen to additional non turf pitches on sites should
explore. be monitored over the next 2 years. 5.22 The replacement of OT and Romsey’s
Cricket pavilion has been emphasised
5.16 The ECB have a launched a range of funds 5.19 Andover Cricket Club has received some in the Romsey Rapids Sports complex
recently to support clubs, including the funding from the Council’s CAF fund in action plan point, as it had not been
County Grants fund, which provides up 2020/21 to support renovation for their explicitly clear in the original action plan.
to £10,000 of support to clubs for capital nets and works to the pavilion windows The cricket club are the lead party for this
projects. onsite. However the replacement of the action.
club’s pavilion remains an immediate
5.17 The Council owned sites have completed 5.23 As per the action plan an assessment
priority for Andover Cricket Club as the
most of the actions in the Hampshire of the Romsey Rapids Sports complex
site continues to age.
Cricket Board’s advisory reports for cricket cricket pitch is currently underway with a
pitches and Knightwood’s cricket table 5.20 Andover Cricket Club have also been detailed report anticipated in early 2022.
has returned to play this season for the developing their junior cricket programme This assessment work will look at all
first time since the drainage improvement over the past 2 years with support from formal pitch provision currently onsite.
works on the outfield were finished in the TVBC Councillor Grant scheme
2019/20. and ECB approved funding stream
funds4runs.
7Hockey Action Plan Update under. However now all restrictions have at how they can fill their existing spaces
been lifted this can be revisited and increase capacity for swimming
5.24 The artificial pitch at Romsey School lessons onsite.
which was identified as in urgent need 5.28 All leisure settings have been impacted
of resurfacing in Stage A of the 2020 PPS by Covid-19 but it is assumed that now 5.32 We continue to work with schools to
has been completed by the school. These restrictions have been lifted (19th July explore options to increase community
works began while the original strategy 2021) and the sites begin to work through access to swimming pools. This includes
was being completed and therefore did an unrestricted recovery period from the exploring options to improve current
not feature in the action plan. However pandemic that we will be able to review facilities, working with Hampshire County
now complete the Hockey Club and other this action. Council and swim England to establish the
clubs now benefit from the new surface. best approach to development. Currently
5.29 During the pandemic, the operator Places this includes Test Valley School and
5.25 Romsey Hockey Club will be one of the key Leisure received financial support from Rookwood School.
clubs using the new sand dressed hockey the government Job Retention Scheme,
pitch at Ganger Farm once the site has Local Restrictions Support Grants and 5.33 The SFS actions plan seeks to consider
been adopted in 2022. The club will run Additional Restrictions Grant schemes, options to create additional pool space.
between Romsey School and Ganger Farm the Council and Sport England to ensure Initially TVBC will explore the above
as a split site club as per their request at that the settings are able to reopen to options for improving to existing school
when the site’s planning permission was the public and recover. Ensuring that the pools which are not currently providing
granted. Council’s main leisure settings are able to community use but have potential to do
remain open to the public for many years so, and therefore improving the supply
5.26 Trojans Hockey Club, will benefit from to come. deficit for Test Valley.
the pavilion works on the Trojans
Sports Ground, which has already been SFS Action Plan Update: SFS Action Plan Update:
mentioned in the football update above
along with the funding support given to
Swimming Update Athletics
the project by TVBC. 5.30 Section two of the SFS detailed that in 5.34 As identified in the 2020 SFS action plan
2019 the Borough had an unmet demand the athletics track at Charlton was due to
for 112sqm of pool space, which is the be resurfaced as a long term action. This
equivalent of half a 4 lane 25m pool. This action has been brought forward due to
SFS Action Plan Update: deficit was projected to increase by a an updated condition report, and was
Leisure Centres further 10% by 2036 if supply remained completed in September 2021.
the same.
5.27 A short term action of the SFS was to 5.35 This is a £250,000 investment from the
review the ancillary facilities, customer 5.31 National trends are showing that Council which will see the site protected
experience and accessibility at Andover swimming is showing a faster rate of for long term use by Andover Athletics
Leisure Centre. Covid-19 has severely recovery post lockdown than many Club, Andover Triathlon Club, local
inhibited the ability to address this point other sports. In Test Valley by May 2021 schools and the wider community.
due the site’s closure periods and the swimming lesson uptake at the sites run
strict Covid safe guidance that leisure by Places Leisure had recovered back to
settings currently have had to operate pre-pandemic levels. The sites are looking
8SFS Action Plan Update: Sports
Halls
5.36 The Council are currently working with
the developer, Taylor Wimpey on the
delivery of the new indoor sports centre
on Augusta Park (East Anton). The scheme
has been delayed on account of proposed
changes to the local centre. A planning
application is anticipated in early 2022.
5.37 In the South of the borough work is
underway to investigate the potential
future use of Crosfield hall as well as the
future plans for the Romsey Rapids and
Sport Centre campus. Both of these items
will consider the venues potential use for
sporting activities and the potential for Ganger Farm AGP
sport hall improvements in the area
SFS Action Plan Update: Bowls 5.41 Chilbolton Parish Council have received a
SFS Action Plan Update : BMX Council CAF grant to purchase a short mat
track sites 5.39 The enhancement of existing bowls bowls carpet for the village as the parish
facilities in Test Valley continues to be a identified some unmet demand in the
5.38 Andover BMX Club has been instrumental long term priority. The Council has sought area.
in developing a project to install to allocate developer contribution funding
floodlighting at the Andover BMX track towards facility enhancements, however SFS Action Plan Update:
to increase the usability of the site. This there is no certainty that these developer
schemes will come forward swiftly if at all.
School Provision and Use
project will cost £75,500 to deliver and is
subject to planning permission. Invested 5.42 Sport England created a fund to support
partners in the project include British 5.40 Meanwhile Andover Bowls Club has
the opening of school community
Cycling, Andover BMX Club and the received a small Councillor grant in
facilities, which will be delivered through
Council. Work continues to facilitate the 2019/20 to improve disability access to
our active partnership (Energise Me).
delivery of this project. the green while undertaking significant
renovation work on their pavilion in 5.43 Reengagement with schools to enhance
house. community use should form a priority for
the PPS/SFS steering group in 2022.
9Other Actions / Updates
5.44 An action which overarched the PPS was
to explore the idea of a maintenance hub.
The delivery of this actions will be ongoing
for the life of the strategy but to begin this
work, the Council have invested in its own
vertidrainer which is now being used on
Council pitches and can be used on non-
Council owned pitches that the Council
maintain.
5.45 The Council has started to opt for
moveable goal posts on grass pitch
sites to increase the playability of the
pitches and allow for pitches to be moved
slightly as wear occurs. This approach
will continue to be rolled out where
appropriate.
Non listed projects Charlton athletics track post refurbishment
5.46 The following actions were not listed in
the original action plans but do have a 5.48 Longparish Cricket Club received a 5.51 Andover Parkrun, has been located on
positive impact on the landscape of sport significant Council CAF grant in 2020/21 the Charlton Sports Centre site for many
in Test Valley so it is worth mentioning for new cricket nets, which were years, and we have worked to relocate
them. completed in 2021. the Romsey Parkrun which will transfer
to the Ganger Farm Sports complex when
5.47 Enham Trust near Andover has received 5.49 Wellow Parish Council received a Council the site opens. The Council are committed
a significant Council CAF grant in 2019/20 CAF grant in 2019/20 for improvements to supporting these groups to become
to support the development of an to the car park at Hatches Barn sports further embedded into Test Valley.
accessible sports hall. The physical build ground.
has been completed but the ceiling height
constrains its use for many formal sports. 5.50 The Council are working with Picket Piece
Currently the Enham residents are using Community Association to add in netball
the space for activities such as Boccia lines onto an existing tennis court to meet
and indoor curling while the Trust look at a new demand for netball in the area, the
marketing the site for community use. works should be completed in 2022 once
the site is fully adopted.
106. Application Table 2 : Sports Ground / Formal Recreation balances by Parish / Town June 2021.
of the PPS/SFS – Ward Total amount Ward Total amount
Section 106 / CIL Abbotts Ann
Ampfield
£22,730
£9,190
King’s Somborne
Little Somborne
£2,584
£10,975
Amport £44,763 Lockerley £7,799
6.1 All previous versions of the PPS and SFS
(or similar) have been used historically
Andover £912,049 Longparish £867
to support local planning applications
and to secure financial contributions for
Awbridge £2,199 Monxton £6,274
formal sport. They have also been used as
evidence bases for many of the successful
Broughton £6,035 North Baddesley £211,068
funding applications for sport in Test
Valley, including the CIL and CAF projects
Charlton £20,054 Nursling and
discussed in this report. £10,368
Rownhams
6.2 Table 2 details the formal sport balances Chilbolton £2,684
(correct for June 2021) in Test Valley by Over Wallop £75,000
Parish / Town, these balances are made Chilworth £5,011
up of Section 106 contributions which Penton Grafton £29,586
have been collected by the Council over East Dean £3,309
many years. Romsey £191,026
Fyfield £1,699
6.3 A large percentage of these balances Romsey Extra £31,221
have been allocated and/or spent to Grateley £9,063
specific projects, however the Council Smannell £4,341
are committed to working with clubs Houghton £821
and parishes to support the appropriate Stockbridge £2,348
application of unallocated sums for Hurstbourne Tarrant £6,964
capital works. Each Parish are written Tangley £4,187
to on a regular basis to ensure they are Kimpton £3,049
kept up to date with available funds for
projects in their area.
117. Lessons Learnt 7.3 In addition to this, we have experienced
the loss of formal sports space as a result
of phased development applications,
8. New Issues and
7.1 Unfortunately not all sports facilities
where the end application has coming
forward in a different way to that opportunities
in Test Valley have been progressed in originally set out within an illustrative site
line with council and public expectation. masterplan. As there is a long process
Currently we have two formal sport between establishing the requirements 8.1 As mentioned already in the document,
facilities that have been delivered through for strategic sites and their actual delivery. Covid-19 has created an unprecedented
housing development, which despite best The Council needs to review and monitor issue which has impacted every corner of
intentions are not ready for adoption these requirements and put in place the globe. Sport England and the National
from the housing developers. Common measures that both secure the land and Governing Bodies have reacted to create
themes arising from these sites are facilities from inception, whilst ensuring a means of support for many clubs and
that the site infrastructure and physical they are delivered at the right time. organisations where they have had the
buildings are being completed and financial support to do so.
made ready for a compliant handover at 7.4 We have also found on some occasions
different times. that sites built to a developer 8.2 In Test Valley, the Council have accessed
specification, do not always meet specific the Sport England support for the Leisure
7.2 In order to ensure standards are sport specification requirements. For operator and the Rugby clubs have
maintained, we have historically adopted example pitches which are approved as accessed the RFU support packages.
sections of sites once they are completed. “adult” or “junior” in size or definition do
This however leads to part adopted sites not meet with the formal Sport England 8.3 Multiple Cricket clubs in Test Valley
where we may have a pitch adopted, but standardisation. To combat this, we have accessed financial support in the
not the pavilion for example so the site is are mindful to signpost to standard last year from Sport England and ECB
may look complete to the public, but the specification documents at the point of funding streams, these include ; Ampfield,
legal position of ownership is somewhat planning application consultation, and Andover, Broughton, Longparish,
different. This disjointed approach causes now look to ensure that the delivery for Mottisfont, Wellow and Wherwell Cricket
friction for the developers, site residents, formal sport space aligns with these Clubs.
potential site users and the Council. standards.
8.4 Work will continue to support clubs and
Therefore in the future it is important we
organisations as they recover from the
focus more on adopting complete sites
impact of Covid-19.
which can serve the community need
in a timely fashion once under council 8.5 As mentioned above Sport England’s
ownership. This could be achieved for opening school facilities fund creates the
example, by agreeing more stringent ideal opportunity for us to reengage with
phasing at the point of planning consent. schools and look at how we can support
Test Valley schools to enable or enhance
a community offer. This fund can be used
as a catalyst for this work.
129. Conclusions • The Council will adopt and open Picket
Piece Sports Ground and pavilion,
supporting local clubs to make the
The steering group will support
clubs and groups to deliver capital
investment projects to improve /
and Next Steps best use of the site.
• The Council will commission a
enhance or replace facilities where
possible, whilst ensuing the projects
have strong links to the action plans
feasibility study / site options appraisal and have the support of their National
9.1 This update report concludes that in for the provision of additional AGP Governing Body.
what has been a difficult 2 years globally pitch stock in Andover.
since the 2020 PPS and SFS reports were • The steering group will continue
published, the Council and steering group • As a steering group we will re-engage to support the recovery of clubs,
with core clubs such as Andover Rugby organisations and groups from
have made progress in delivering the
Club, Andover New Street, Andover Covid 19 by promoting National
strategies action plans.
Archers, Andover Cricket Club, Andover Governing Body and Council funding
9.2 Although inevitable delays have occurred, Bowls Club and Romsey Town FC to opportunities more widely as a
the landscape for sport and activity is understand and review their long term steering group.
plans.
still very strong in Test Valley, and as
a steering group a clear plan has been
• As a steering group we will re-engage
developed to allow the action plan and 9.5 All of the above actions will support the
with Parishes who have actions listed
the true impact of Covid-19 on sport within the PPS to support the delivery delivery of these strategies’ action plans
and activity demand to be assessed at a of their projects. This includes North whilst contributing towards a Sports
more appropriate time than while we are Baddesley, Broughton, Upper Clatford, Masterplan for the Borough which will
still living in a period of restriction and Abbotts Ann, Barton Stacey, Nursling emerge as actions from these document
recovery. and Rownhams. are completed.
9.3 Over the next 12 months, the Council 9.6 The steering group will review actions
will continue to work to seek developer regularly and will meet again in 12
contributions for sport where possible, Sports Facilities Strategy months from the publication of this
using the strategies as an evidence base. update report to assess if it will then be
• The Council, together with British an appropriate time to formally reassess
9.4 The steering group will continue to deliver Cycling will work with Andover BMX supply and demand for formal sport and
the 2020 action plans listed below with a club to further support the delivery of recreation in Test Valley.
particular focus on the following actions. their floodlighting project.
9.7 Test Valley would like to thank all steering
Playing Pitch Strategy • The Council will engage with local group members for their support in
schools to explore opportunities to drawing this update together.
• The Council will adopt and open enhance and enable community use
Ganger Farm Sports Complex to the provision.
local community, supporting local
clubs to make best use of the site.
13Appendix 1: Update on PPS Action Plan
Key : Green : Action completed in either 2020 or 2021
Amber : Action progressed in either 2020 or 2021
Red : Action not progressed in either 2020 or 2021
Abbreviations :
FA (Football Association), FF (Football Foundation), TVBC (Test Valley Borough Council), EH (England Hockey), RFU (Rugby Football Union),
AGP (artificial grass pitch), ECB (England Cricket Board), HCB (Hampshire Cricket Board), NTP (non turf pitch), FC (football club), OT&RCC (Old
Tauntonians and Romsey Crickey Club), NGB (National Governing Body), LFFP (Local Football Facilities Plan),
Short Term Actions
Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
Action North Sub Area
Reference
1 Andover o Football o Commission a feasibility o TVBC o FA / FF With input from the FA/EH/
(Site to be (Possibly study / site options o Site owners RFU/TVBC it has been decided
determined) rugby) appraisal for provision o Key clubs that this action should take
o Hockey of a second 3G AGP in o RFU (if at Foxcotte priority in the coming year to
Andover in the medium and rugby assess artificial pitch provision.
term. compliant)
A task group will be created to
progress this work.
14Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
2 Foxcotte o Football o Review the ancillary o Clubs (3) o TVBC This work should form
Sports Park / Rugby / facility needs of all three o FA part of a strategic review /
Archery sports clubs (archery, o RFU conversation with all clubs as
rugby, football) and sports start to recover from
potential for shared the impact of Covid-19 and a
provision to improve new baseline emerges.
quality, inclusivity of
access and financial
sustainability of all three
community sports clubs. TVBC to initiate conversations
which may feed in to the
short term action above and
contribute towards a long
term sports masterplan for the
borough.
15Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
3 Goodship o Rugby o Assess the feasibility o Andover o TVBC Now that floodlight provision
Ground, of reconfiguring the RFC o RFU has been improved at the site,
Foxcotte current pitch provision to reconfiguration is no longer
Sports Park / provide additional playing possible.
Charlton Park pitch capacity (rugby
compliant).
The group consider that in
taking forwards this action, it
would be more appropriate to
take the following approach;
Assess the feasibility of
providing additional playing
pitch capacity through the
following methods
- Improved drainage
- Acquisition of land
- a WR Reg 22 compliant AGP.
Although this action is likely to
feed into the artificial surface
demand work above, is it
unlikely any physical change
would actioned until sport has
re-stabilised post Covid-19
therefore this should be
regarded as a medium term
action.
16Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
4 Andover o Cricket o Replace club pavilion (2 o Andover CC o ECB Work continues to keep the
Cricket team) o TVBC current site safe and fit for
Ground purpose. The club has recently
received funding from TVBC
for works to the pavilion
windows and practice nets.
However there has been little
progress in securing funding
for the replacement of the
pavilion and this should form a
high priority for the club.
A strategic conversation
should be revisited with the
club as it starts to recover from
the impact of Covid-19 and a
new baseline emerges.
17Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
5 London Road o Cricket o Implement actions o TVBC / o ECB TVBC completed the
Playing Field recommended in HCB o Andover CC recommended HCB actions.
Pitch Advisor Ground
Report (Dec 19)
The site has had limited use
since 2020 due to Covid-19
and reduced demand, but it is
anticipated the site will return
to use in 2022.
The site has not been used by
Andover Cricket Club in 2021.
6 Picket Twenty o Cricket o Implement actions o TVBC o ECB TVBC has implemented
Recreation recommended in HCB the majority of actions
Ground Pitch Advisor Ground recommended in the HCB
Report (Dec 19) report.
o Promote use of sites Non-
Turf Pitch (NTP)
The site is being used for the
21/22 season, users include
Andover Cricket Club.
TVBC and ECB to work
together to promote and
assess the use of the NTP
onsite.
18Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
7 Picket Piece o Football o Finalise handover of o TVBC o Club users TVBC lost a planning appeal
Recreation pavilion and pitch o FA - support as to secure land reserved for a
Ground o Consider long required junior football pitch.
term management
arrangement
As a result planning
application for housing has
been submitted for the mini
pitch site.
The whole sites handover is
still not completed, but TVBC is
hopeful this will be completed
in 2022.
TVBC will work with the FA as
required.
19Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
8 Harroway o Football o Re-establish community o Harrow o TVBC Harroway has expressed an
School use of pitches and Way School o Portway Junior interesting in having a 3G ATP
ancillary facilities and School onsite to the FA. Feasibility
consider potential for o Andover New Street for this will feed into the ATP
community programming FC review for Andover.
links with Portway Junior o Andover YFC
School field.
There have been no
conversations to re-establish
community use to date, but
this can be reviewed as part
of the feasibility work which
may draw in the Sport England
“Opening Schools facilities
fund”.
9 Upper o Football o Improvements to pavilion. o Parish The FA has highlighted this site
Clatford o FA Pitch Adviser to assess Council as a LFFP priority.
Sports Field options and costs to o FA
improve pitch quality.
The FA will approach the
Parish to progress this action.
TVBC could also approach
to highlight possible internal
grant funding streams to
support the capital investment.
10 Bulbery o Football o FA Pitch Adviser to assess o FA o Parish Council The FA to approach regarding
Sports Fields, options and costs to the new digital process
Abbotts Ann improve pitch quality. called pitch power for site
assessments.
20Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
South Sub Area
11 Romsey o Cricket o HCB Pitch Adviser to o TVBC o OT&RCC As Romsey Rugby Club
Rapids Sports o Football assess options to improve o ECB transition to Ganger Farm
Complex outfield o Romsey Youth the need for rugby pitches
o In the long term, to be retained onsite will be
programme and mark assessed.
the current rugby training
area for youth football
training, following the
opening of Ganger Farm. The site’s training pitch will be
opened up to the community
o OT and Romsey Cricket o OT&RCC clubs for use whilst the a
club pavilion to be long term plan for the site is
replaced. established..
Formal site reconfiguration
will be picked up once supply
and demand are formally
reassessed when a new
national baseline has emerged.
The long term future of the
site will be picked up in the
Romsey Future Workstream
and will form part of a Sports
masterplan for Test Valley.
The requirement for OT
and Romsey’s pavilion to be
replaced should be added to
this action as a short term
priority with the club being the
lead party.
21Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
12 Bypass o Football o Upgrade changing, o Romsey o FA/FF (FSIF grant) Club to be made aware of FSIF
(Romsey) showers (utilities etc.) Town FC o Site owner by the FA.
Stadium o TVBC
TVBC awarded the club a small
grant in 19/20 for CCTV.
This site is considered as part
of the Romsey Future work
stream.
13 Kings Chase/ o Hockey o Complete new pitches o TVBC o Facility Operator The site will be run and
o Rugby and pavilion o NGBs - support as managed by TVBC once
Ganger Farm o Football o Finalise management required adopted from the developer.
Playing Fields arrangements, core
programme and facility
hire charges
A fees and charges structure is
in place and the site will open
to the public once adopted by
TVBC.
14 Abbotswood o Football o Finalise handover of o TVBC o Club users The site was adopted by TVBC
Playing Field pavilion & pitches o FA - support as in 2020, and was used by local
o Finalise management required football clubs for part of the
arrangements, core 20/21 season.
programme and facility
hire charges
The site is managed and run
by TVBC under the standard
fee structure.
22Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
15 Trojans o Rugby o Upgrade pavilion o Trojans o Eastleigh BC Trojans has received significant
Sports Club o Hockey changing areas Sports Club o TVBC funding from TVBC for the
o Cricket o Commission a feasibility o EH pavilion upgrade through CIL
study for a 2nd hockey and CAF grants in 2020/21.
AGP and conversion of
a rugby pitch to a rugby
AGP.
NGBs have had early
engagement with club on a
potential pavilion design.
An update on the feasibility
study is not known at this time.
The Club has acquired the
adjacent Hardmoor sports
grounds in a 35 year lease to
increase pitch capacity.
The RFU continue to support
the club to increase rugby
capacity onsite through
drainage / maintenance
improvements.
23Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
16 Hunts Farm o Football o FA to assess options and o TVBC o FA The sites drainage has been
Playing Fields o Cricket costs to improve drainage o ECB improved by TVBC with a
to football pitches major investment in 2020.
o Improve levels of cricket
squares by implementing
actions recommended in
HCB Pitch Advisor Ground Actions from HCB the report
Report (Dec 19) have been completed, pitches
o Install a Non-Turf Pitch are back in use for the current
(NTP) season.
Demand for a NTP to be
assessed once a new baseline
emerges to ensure this action
is appropriate.
17 Knightwood o Cricket o Implement actions o TVBC o ECB TVBC continue to implement
Leisure recommended in HCB the actions in the HCB report.
Centre Pitch Advisor Ground
Report (Dec 19)
The site has returned to use
for cricket in 2021.
18 Broughton o Cricket o Replace pavilion (2 team) o Broughton o ECB Significant TVBC CIL grant
Sports Field o Football PC o FA / FF awarded in 2021 towards a
o TVBC new pavilion.
o Broughton clubs
The FA to make club aware
that FA/ FF small grants could
support the project.
24Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
19 North o Football o Implement actions o Parish o FA TVBC Councillor grant in
Baddesley recommended in FA pitch Council 2019/20 for goal mouth
Recreation improvement report hardstanding.
Ground
o Cricket o ECB report that cricket
pitch is in a poor state of The FA has approved
maintenance and is not funding from the grass pitch
used. ECB wish to explore maintenance fund to support
reopening the pitch. this project.
Fine turf cricket square unused
and does not appear to be
maintained
Initial contact from ECB pre-
COVID with Ampfield & North
Baddesley Cricket Club and
North Baddesley Cricket Club
to explore potential usage. ECB
to action.
20 Sherfield o Football o Complete new pavilion fit o SERP Trust No update but TVBC can look
English Sports out to make contact to share TVBC
Field funding stream options.
21 Mottisfont o Football o FA to assess options and o Sports o FA
Sports Pitch costs to improve pitch Trust o Parish Council
subject to confirmation o Mottisfont FC This site is not an FA priority
by Sports Trust and Club investment site.
of continued demand for
affiliated play
25Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
22 Ampfield o Cricket o Improve car park, remove o Parish Major TVBC CAF in 18/19
Recreation o Football former pavilion building Council for pavilion and car park
Ground and relocate play area improvements
further from cricket
boundary.
Car park has been completed.
Borough wide
23 - Football, o Establish the extent o NGBs o NGB Pitch Advisors TVBC has invested in its
Rugby & of the need for, and o TVBC own vertidrainer to improve
the costs of providing, pitch maintenance and
Cricket a maintenance hub continue to promote this
resource with specialist with local clubs, parishes and
equipment for hire to sports associations where
clubs, sports associations, maintenance contracts are in
parish councils in order place.
to improve quality and
capacity of club and
parish pitches.
RFU have started a 3 year
partnership project with the
GMA to assess and improve
pitch quality / capacity in the
region. This could impact the
rugby pitches in Test Valley.
ECB comment onsite
maintenance equipment
remains best practice for this
body.
26Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
24 - Football, o Organise and promote o NGBs o TVBC Grounds maintenance staff
Rugby & sports turf maintenance o Sparsholt College are encourage to attend CPD
training update sessions events where possible to
Cricket annually for grounds improve knowledge and skill
staff working on playing sets now that face to face
pitches in the borough. events are returning post
Covid-19 restrictions.
ECB recommend Grounds
Management Association as
a partner for CPD for cricket
pitch maintenance.
25 - Football o Replace fixed goalposts o TVBC o FA TVBC has replaced goals at the
with moveable systems at o Parish Councils following sites; Charlton, East
all sites used for affiliated Anton, Knightwood.
football.
Abbotswood, which was
adopted last year uses
moveable goals and the
Council’s stock will be replaced
as and when required to a
portable system if appropriate.
27Longer Term Actions
Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
North Sub Area
26 Foxcotte o Football o Review the progress of the o Clubs (3) o TVBC Action (2) is: “review the ancil-
Sports Park / Rugby / short term recommenda- o FA lary facility needs of all three
Archery tions o RFU sports clubs (archery, rugby,
football) and potential for
shared provision to improve
quality, inclusivity of access
and financial sustainability of
all three community sports
clubs”.
27 Andover (Site o Hockey o Review a needs case for o TVBC o EH This will form part of the AGP
to be deter- a second hockey AGP to o Andover Hock- review for Andover.
mined) serve demand in Andover ey Club
and the site and funding
options.
28 Barton Stac- o Football o Replace pavilion (2 team) o Barton Stacey o FA / FF TVBC CAF was received in
ey Recreation PC o TVBC 2018/19 to improve the sites
Ground o Barton Stacey MUGA.
FC & Youth FC
The FA suggest that as this is
not a site in the LFFP the par-
ish explore the FA/FF’s small
grants application.
TVBC to contact about further
TVBC funding streams.
28Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
29 Anton Junior o Football o Resurface 2 No. small sid- o Anton Junior o Andover Town No progress has been report-
School ed 3G pitches School YFC ed to date.
o Andover New
Street FC
o FA - advisory
support only TVBC to contact about further
(not a funding funding streams.
priority)
Support from the FA will be
limited as the pitches are not a
compliant size.
30 Andover o Football o Establish feasibility/ busi- o Andover Com- o TVBC No progress has been made
Sports Acad- ness case of converting munity Services o FA - advisory on this to date.
emy disused single tennis court support only
to a small sided 3G AGP. (not a funding
priority)
Support from the FA will be
limited as the pitches are not a
compliant size.
29Site Sport(s) Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
South Sub Area
31 Romsey o Cricket o Commission a feasibili- o TVBC o FA / FF This action is likely to form
Rapids Sports o Football ty study / master plan to o ECB part of the Romsey Future
Complex review all provision on the o OT&R CC work steam where a master-
two sites (including the o Romsey Town plan for Romsey emerges.
indoor sports and leisure FC
facilities) and establish o Bypass Ground More information will come
Bypass a preferred option, costs landowner forwards in 2022
(Romsey) and funding strategy for o Romsey Future
Ground enhancing this key sports o Romsey Extra
hub, to include replace- Parish Council
ment of the existing inad-
equate pavilion facilities of
Old Tauntonian & Romsey
Cricket Club and Romsey
Football Club.
32 Trojans o Rugby o Subject to findings of o Trojans Sports o Eastleigh BC England Hockey to contact
Sports Club o Hockey feasibility study, provide a Club o TVBC Trojans
o Cricket second hockey AGP and o NGBs
change of surface of a rug-
by pitch to 3G AGP.
33 Nursling & o Football o Pavilion provision (4 team) o Nursling & o FA / FF This site is not owned by
Rownhams Rownhams PC o TVBC TVBC or a priority LFFP in-
Recreation o Newton Heath vestment for the FA.
Ground o Nursling Vets
TVBC to contact about fund-
ing streams (including FA
small grants).
30Appendix 2: Update on SFS Action Plan
Key : Green : Action completed in either 2020 or 2021
Amber : Action progressed in either 2020 or 2021
Red : Action not progressed in either 2020 or 2021
Short Term Actions
Action Project Site Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
Reference
1 Andover o Review of the ancillary facilities, o Places o TVBC This action is ongoing. Covid-19 has
Leisure accessibility and peak time customer Leisure had major implications on the way
Centre experience at the Andover Leisure services are delivered at the centre.
Centre.
2 St Edwards o Assess the opportunity for community o School o TVBC No action to date.
School and access/ availability at St Edwards governing
Farleigh School and Farleigh School (subject bodies
School to Community Use Agreements being
implemented).
3 Trojans o Upgrade changing facilities o Trojans o NGBs TVBC CIL funding received in 2021 for
Sports Club Sports Club this project.
NGB engagement at the pre application
phase is underway.
4 Foxcotte o Review the ancillary facility needs of o Clubs (3) o TVBC To be picked up as part of the
Sports Park all three sports clubs (archery, rugby, o FA 3G options appraisal works and
football) and potential for shared o RFU reengagement with key clubs to review
provision to improve quality, inclusivity of their long term plans as part of a wider
access and financial sustainability of all sports masterplan.
three community sports clubs.
31Action Project Site Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
Reference
5 Charlton o Review options to reconfigure the o TVBC o Places Closure of golf courses for periods of
Sports Centre current facility with the potential for the Leisure 2020 and 2021 as a result of Covid-19
introduction of Foot Golf to widen appeal. has impacted use.
Also, consideration should be given to
other alternative sports / recreation Full recovery of the sport is required
uses of potential land released from the before this action is considered further.
reconfiguration (e.g. informal recreation /
cycling and/or site for 3G AGP).
6 Romsey o Upgrade tennis / netball courts and lights. o Romsey o LTA TVBC to contact Romsey School.
School School o Romsey
& Abbey
LTC
o TVBC
7 BMX Track o Assess opportunities for the clubs o British o TVBC British Cycling grant for floodlights at
sites to enhance their sites, including the Cycling Andover BMX track has been granted.
improvement of power supply, lighting, o Andover TVBC will support the club where
CCTV and water supply at the BMX track. BMX possible to deliver their project.
o Knightwood
BMX
TVBC’s car park upgrade at Charlton is
planned for 2021/22 which will improve
the site.
Further proposals at Knightwood
BMX track should be considered
where a link to this action plan can be
demonstrated.
32Longer Term Actions
Action Project Site Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
Reference
8 Romsey o Commission a feasibility study to o TVBC o Places This work will be done as part of the
Rapids establish a design brief, capital cost Leisure Romsey Future work stream or as
Sports estimates and a funding strategy as o FA / FF part of the development of a sports
Complex part of a wider master plan to review all o ECB masterplan for Test Valley.
sports facility provision (including the o OT&R CC
indoor sports and leisure facilities and o Romsey More information will come forwards
playing pitch provision) on the Romsey Town FC in 2022.
Rapids Sports Complex. o Bypass
Ground
landowner
o Romsey
Future
o Romsey
Extra
Parish
Council
9 Foxcotte o Review the progress of the short-term o Clubs (3) o TVBC Action addressed above.
Sports Park actions (see Figure 47).
10 Charlton o Resurface the athletics track o TVBC o Andover Completed Summer 2021.
Sports Athletics
Centre Club
11 Romsey o Replacement sports hall o Romsey o TVBC No update.
School School
12 Mountbatten o Replacement sports hall o Mountbatten o TVBC No update.
School School
13 Winton o Upgrade tennis/netball courts and lights o Winton o LTA No update.
School School o TVBC
14 North o Upgrade existing 2 tennis courts or o Parish o LTA No update.
Baddesley replace in better location. Council
Recreation
Ground
33Action Project Site Action(s) Lead Partners Comments / Update
Reference
15 Andover o Review the Andover Sports Academy o TVBC No progress, action to be reviewed
Sports future prior to the lease ending in 2027. in 2022 once the 5 years to expiry
Academy milestone is met.
16 Bowls Sites o Review of all bowls facilities in the o TVBC Andover Bowls Club Cllr Grant for
Borough (both north and south) to o Andover disability access to green.
ensure they best meet the needs of the Bowls
population. o Andover
Vision
o Romsey Developer contributions being sought
Bowls in principle for bowls provision.
o Romsey
Future
o Banister Park
Bowling Club
17 East Anton o Work with housing developers to ensure o TVBC o Housing Site to come forward in 2022. TVBC
(Site to be appropriate facilities and physical Developers are re engaged with developers and
determined) activity provision is developed to meet looking to progress the delivery and
the needs of the community based on adoption of this site. (Southern Local
a review of the delivery of the priorities Centre).
within this strategy at the time of any
site development.
3435
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