Portsmouth’s PlayZones project kicking off

Stamshaw Park, Charles Dickens Community Centre, Baffins Pond, Beacon View Primary Academy and Mayfield School have been proposed to become dynamic spaces for outdoor, multi-sports activities, supporting healthier, happier lifestyles for all residents.

Earlier this year, Portsmouth City Council successfully applied to join the first stage of the Football Foundation's PlayZones programme which allowed it to carry out a survey with residents which helped identify suitable sites that matched demand.

This programme aims to create accessible, inclusive spaces to tackle inequalities in physical activity and provide recreational opportunities for the communities in greatest need. PlayZones mean residents can enjoy football and a variety of other sports, in a safe, inviting environment that brings people together.

The Council are working in collaboration with Hampshire FA, Pompey in the Community, Energise Me, Urbond and BH Live, each of whom bring unique expertise to help shape the project.

Funding from the Government, the Premier League, and the FA, will help create vibrant, well-managed facilities, and the Council will engage residents in developing programmes of activities that reflect community needs and demands. The sites that have been identified are now being assessed by the Football Foundation for suitability.

Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of the Council with responsibility for Culture, Regeneration & Economic Development at Portsmouth City Council said: "Promoting positive physical health and encouraging physical activity is a top priority for the Council, and we work hard to support and encourage healthy lifestyles in our city.

"This programme is intended to bring people together through sport, tackling health inequalities and isolation in the city and fostering a sense of community around these new PlayZones. We are committed to investing in sports and leisure facilities across the city is so important to provide more opportunities for residents to be active and live healthier, happier lives."

To find out more about the survey responses and its summary of findings, visit PlayZone Community Insight Report