Hyndburn Council invests £190k in new sports programme
They hope it'll help grassroots sports
Hyndburn Council is to spend £190,000 over two years on a new Sports Development Programme.
It will target grassroots participation and group under-represented in recreational activities.
The programme will be delivered on the authority’s behalf by Hyndburn Leisure who will employ a dedicated officer to oversee it.
Wednesday’s meeting of the council’s cabinet approved spending £45,000 a year in 2026/27 and 2027/28 for the creation of a new sports development post, together with £100,000 over the two years on the programme to support healthier communities, youth engagement and long-term participation in sport in the borough.
Hyndburn Council’s sports boss Cllr Kimberley Whitehead told the cabinet meeting: “The Sports Development Programme will increase opportunities for residents of all ages and abilities to participate in regular physical activity.
“It will work across leisure facilities, parks, open spaces, schools and community venues to ensure that physical activity opportunities are visible, accessible and well-connected.
“The programme will place a particular emphasis on increasing participation among those who are currently inactive or under-represented in sport and physical activity.
“The programme will provide structured and strategic support to grassroots sports teams and clubs operating within Hyndburn, recognising their vital role in delivering local participation opportunities and sustaining long-term engagement in sport.
“This support will enable clubs to grow participation, improve quality of provision and respond more effectively to local need, ensuring that grassroots sport continues to thrive across the borough.”
She also told the meeting Hyndburn Leisure would establish a benevolent fund as part of the programme designed to reduce financial barriers to participation in sport and physical activity.
It will provide targeted support to individuals, clubs or community groups where cost would otherwise prevent engagement, such as assistance with membership fees, equipment, kit or access to facilities.