Council invests £500,000 in community sports

A local authority has invested hundreds of thousands of pounds into grassroots sport.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council has distributed £320,000 in grants to 19 voluntary sports clubs, with individual awards ranging from £5000 to £31,000. 

A further £180,000 has been allocated as match funding for a major £2.15 million grant bid, aiming to create seven new playzones.

Officials say the funding is intended to improve club facilities, increase participation – especially among under-represented groups – and support wider health and sport strategies.

They add expected outcomes include improved health, stronger community ties, lower crime rates and new job opportunities.

Councillor Ursula Earl, cabinet member for health, housing and welfare, said: “This programme is a big step forward in our mission to build a healthier, more active borough.

“We’re not only improving facilities but creating and maintaining places that bring people together.”

Each funded project has been developed in collaboration with local communities and supported by partners such as Sport England, national governing bodies and local school sports partnerships. 

Thomas Robinson, head coach of East Cleveland Basketball Club, added: “The funding will be used to purchase two FIBA-standard gameday hoops for our competitive teams, alongside six height-adjustable goals, allowing us to deliver age-appropriate training for our younger players.”  

Geraldine Williams, founder of Grangetown Netball Club, added: “We have been running for 44 years and now have more than 400 members throughout all age groups, from juniors to our elite players and those getting back into netball.

“Getting this funding means we can cater for all these age groups and abilities. 

“It also means we can reach more young girls and be able to cater for them all.”

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