Brendon Lawrence Sports centre in St Ann's may be designated asset of community value

A “vital” St Ann’s sports centre could be given greater protections under new plans to get it designated an asset of community value.

The Brendon Lawrence Sports Centre (BLSC) not only acts as a sports facility, but also a “hub of social connection, physical and mental wellbeing, and youth engagement”.

It was opened and named in tribute to 16-year-old Brendon Lawrence, who was shot as he was sitting in his cousin’s car on February 19, 2002.

His death was the first of a wave of shootings in the city.

The facility is run by the Renewal Trust, a community development charity based in St Ann’s and Sneinton, which has now nominated the facility to get greater protections under law.

If Nottingham City Council agrees to designate it an asset of community value, it means if the land is put up for sale, it will be subject to more development restrictions and community groups are given the chance to bid.

A number of organisations across the city have written in support of the nomination.

Colin Eley, health and wellbeing manager at Nottingham Forest Community Trust, said: “BLSC plays a vital role in the life of our community. It is not merely a sports facility, it is a hub of social connection, physical and mental wellbeing, and youth engagement. The centre provides accessible and affordable opportunities for residents of all ages to participate in sports, fitness classes, and community events. It supports our communities from those under four through to those of 70.

“Many clubs, schools and organisations rely on the centre for regular programming, and it serves as a safe and inclusive space for diverse groups across the neighbourhood. Its continued presence contributes significantly to the health, cohesion, and resilience of our community.”

Brendon’s killer, Rene Sarpong, was given a minimum of 22 years to serve of a life sentence before parole.

During the hearings, Mr Justice David Clarke said: “This killing in February 2002, the jury and I were told, was the first killing by shooting of a young black victim on the streets of Nottingham.

“It was not the last. The killings that followed gave this city a reputation as a lawless place.”

It took eight years for the family to get justice for their son.

The listing, if granted, will give community groups six-months to make a bid to buy the asset if the owner decides to sell it.

The right, also known as the community right to bid, typically helps protect important local community assets including pubs, shops, and community centres.

Inspector Steve Dalby, neighbourhood policing inspector for the city south local policing area, has also written in support of the nomination.

He added: “Given its long-standing contribution and support of our local and wider communities, we believe BLSC meets the criteria for designation as an asset of community value.

“We urge the council to recognise its importance and take steps to ensure its protection for future generations.”

Dr Chris Jones and Dr Rosie Baker-Wilding, who have been taking their children to mini movers sessions at the centre, say it is a “cornerstone of the local community.

In a supporting letter, they added: “We have been coming ever since we moved into the area four years ago – first with our oldest child, and again now with our youngest.

“These weekly sessions have provided a great opportunity to meet other parents in a safe, inexpensive, reliable format. This sort of event is truly a cornerstone of the local community and must surely fit the definition of an asset of community value.”

The nomination will now be considered by the council.

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