Issue details

Sheffield Football Hubs

COVID-19 had a significant impact on the operation of the Sheffield Football Hubs. This resulted in the exit of Pulse Soccer as the operator and their sub-contractor, Leisure United were engaged as temporary operator. for the football hub sites at Thorncliffe, Graves and Westfield until June 2022.

A solution is needed to safeguard the investment in Sheffield. Sheffield City Council and the Football Foundation have undertaken significant due diligence with the funding partners the FA (Football Association), the Premier League and Sport England to find a sustainable long term operating solution.

 

The Sheffield Football Hubs Report will be seeking approval to progress with a new management and operational model for our four football facility sites in Sheffield in partnership with the National Football Trust.

 

Doing nothing is not an option. The current interim arrangements come to an end in June 2022 and how the facilities will be managed and operated must be reviewed. 

The Council knows how important our football facilities are to the people of Sheffield, especially post Covid-19 and the health and wellbeing of residents is a priority.  It is therefore critical that a long-term sustainable management arrangement is put in place to secure the future of the facilities. The proposed future partnership with the National Football Trust aims to create a network of sustainable, high-quality facilities for the long term.

 

The proposed capital spending of around £2m into community football facilities in Darnall will have a significant impact on participation levels, health and the social/community benefits of football.

Decision type: Key

Reason Key: Expenditure/savings > £500,000;

Decision status: For Determination

Notice of proposed decision first published: 20/01/2022

Scrutiny Committee: Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee;

Decision due: 20 Apr 2022 by Co-operative Executive

Lead director: Executive Director, Place

Department: Place

Contact: Lisa Firth, Director of Parks, Leisure and Libraries Email: lisa.firth@sheffield.gov.uk Tel: 2053964.

Date agenda documents available: 08/03/22

Decisions

Agenda items

Documents

  • Report of the Executive Director, Place