Guidance for Sports Field Development

This updated guidance helps councils, schools, clubs, trusts and other providers make informed decisions about sports field development and investment.

Sports fields are important community spaces, but planning for future demand, managing costs and making the best use of available land can be complex. The guidance provides a practical 5-step process to help organisations understand local needs, explore options and plan sustainable sports fields that meet community needs.

It includes practical tools, case studies and a costs model to support planning, investment and decision-making.

Who the guidance is for

This guidance is for organisations that plan, develop, manage or invest in sports fields, including:

• councils and territorial authorities

• schools and kura

• clubs and sporting organisations

• trusts, facility owners and operators

• Regional Sports Trusts

• consultants and advisors supporting sports field planning and development.

What the guidance covers

Use the guidance to:

• understand local needs and future demand

• assess existing sports fields and facilities

• explore ways to improve existing fields before investing in new development

• consider partnership opportunities and shared approaches

• understand different field types and emerging technologies

• balance long-term costs, environmental impacts and community benefits

• use practical tools and examples to support planning and investment decisions.

Case studies

The guidance includes examples that show how organisations have:

• made better use of existing fields and facilities

• worked with partners to increase capacity

• responded to environmental challenges

•  delivered better outcomes for their communities.