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Local Football Facility Plan Salford

Introduction

01

This is the Local Football Facility Plan (LFFP) for Salford. It was prepared by Knight, Kavanagh and Page (KKP) with support from local partners, including:

  • Salford City Council
  • Salford Community Leisure
  • Manchester County Football Association
  • Football Foundation
  • Sport England

What is the goal?

Every local area in the Country will have a LFFP to enable investment in football facilities to be accurately targeted.

Who is behind this?

The Football Association, the Premier League and Sport England (on behalf of Government). This partnership finances the National Football Facility Strategy (NFFS) and commissions the Football Foundation to deliver it.

What is the purpose of this plan?

The national funding partners have significantly increased investment to accelerate efforts to deliver more and better football facilities for the grassroots game. The purpose of this plan is to identify the priority projects for potential investment in Salford.

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Why invest in football facilities?

As the nation’s most popular team sport, football has the power to contribute positively to vital social outcomes and health priorities. To maximise this power, facilities have to be welcoming environments to attract first-time users and repeat visits, whether for informal, recreational or competitive football.

Research clearly and continually demonstrates the positive impact high-quality football facilities, in the right locations, can have on participation and enjoyment. Latent demand exists, but facility quantity and quality has to ‘step up’ if football is to reach out to everyone.

How are we going to do it?

£1.3billion has been spent by football and Government since 2000 to enhance existing football facilities and build new ones. However, more is needed if football and Government’s shared objectives for participation, individual well-being and community cohesion are to be achieved.

Nationally, direct investment will be increased – initially to £69 million per annum from football and Government (a 15% increase on recent years). Locally, the work has already started* - this LFFP will guide the allocation of 90% of national funds and forge stronger partnerships with local stakeholders to develop key sites. This, together with local match-funding will deliver over one billion pounds of investment into football facilities over the next 10-years.

What are the priorities for investment?

This LFFP, with guidance from local partners, has developed a list of high level projects for potential investment. Each is aligned to the investment priorities set out in the National Football Facilities Strategy, which include:

  • 1,000 new 3G football turf pitches (FTPs): in a mix of sizes and settings, dependent upon local needs. All aimed at enhancing the quality of the playing experience.
  • 20,000 improved natural-turf pitches: to help address drop-off due to a poor playing experience.
  • 1,000 new changing pavilions / clubhouses: all linked to priority sites.
  • Small-sided facilities: to grow the small-sided game for teams & leagues, recreational and informal play.

What outcomes will be achieved?

The priority projects for potential investment identified in this plan will help develop a sustainable network of quality facilities to drive participation across all parts of the game. Central to this are five key success factors: quality, inclusivity, sustainability, engagement and usage. Each identified project takes account of these factors.

How should this plan be used?

This LFFP will, in effect, be the go-to document for football facility investment in Salford.

Whilst it identifies priority projects for potential investment, it does not guarantee the success of future funding applications. Each project must still follow an application process to show how it will deliver key participation outcomes, become a quality & sustainable facility and demonstrate suitable match-funding.

When each project is in a position to proceed, the Football Foundation will determine a suitable timeframe to submit a grant application and pre-application support will be provided by Manchester County FA and the Football Foundation.

Set a 10-Year vision to transform local football facilities
Identify priority projects to be delivered
Act as an investment portfolio for projects that require funding
Be updated on a regular basis

How should this plan NOT be used?

A LFFP is an investment portfolio of priority projects for potential investment - it is not a detailed demand and supply analysis of all pitch provision in a local area. It cannot be used as a replacement for a Playing Pitch Strategy (PPS) and it will not be accepted as an evidence base for site change of use or disposal.

A LFFP will however build on available/existing local evidence and strategic plans and may adopt relevant actions from a PPS and/or complement these with additional investment priorities.

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Salford

02

Local area

Salford is in the North West region.

The current population of the Authority (ONS 2017 Mid-Year Estimate) is 251,332. This is expected to rise to 289,803 by 2039.

35.7% of the Salford population is within NS SEC classification 6-8 (lower socio-economic groups). This figure is higher than the national average (30.6%)

Salford’s ethnic composition is primarily White (90.1%). This is higher than the national average (85.4%).

The proportion of Salford’s population represented by the BAME community is 9.9%. This is below the national average (14.6%).

Demographics

  • 251,332 Current population (2017)
  • 289,803 Projected population (2039)
  • 8th most deprived out of 39 local authorities in the region
  • 27th most deprived out of 326 local authorities in England

Ethnicity data

  • Asian (4.03%)
  • Black (2.8%)
  • Mixed (1.97%)
  • Other (1.06%)
  • White (90.14%)
26%
27%
26%

% of people that are inactive

  • Salford
  • Region
  • England

ONS data and Sport England Active lives survey 2016/17

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Local partners

Local Authority

Salford City Council is committed to improving sport and recreational facilities. Through its Draft Local Plan (2016), its objective is to ensure that Salford is an attractive place to live, work and visit. Improving recreation facilities is a key element in its ambition to achieve this objective. This is particularly significant given the poor average health of residents, which can have a considerable influence on economic growth prospects in terms of the availability of a healthy labour force.

The City Council’s Playing Pitch Strategy was produced in 2018. The key findings of the playing pitch assessment which underpins it includes the fact that the City has a current shortfall of one 3G FTP; this is projected to rise to a need for two pitches by 2028. With reference to grass pitches, there is currently spare capacity across a number of formats although, by 2028, shortfalls will exist in respect of adult, youth 11v11 and youth 9v9 pitches.

Salford Community Leisure Trust

Salford Community Leisure Trust (SCL) runs all the public sector leisure facilities in the Authority. SCL’s strategic plan (2016 – 19) aim is “to enhance the lives of people living in Salford, through sport, leisure and cultural opportunities.“

SCL manages several sites which deliver opportunities in football. These include Salford Sports Village and Ordsall Leisure Centre. The Trust also manages a number of large grass pitch sites.

County Football Association

Salford is covered by Manchester County FA. It provides governance and development support to all aspects of local football including coaches, referees, volunteers, clubs and leagues; supporting football for all. The County FA has a designated facilities investment lead officer who works to ensure the right facilities are located in the right locations.

Football Foundation

The Regional Engagement Manager and Regional Technical Project Manager at the Football Foundation work collaboratively with the County FA to provide pre-application support to priority projects for potential investment.

Football Foundation Investment

14 Total grants
  • £6,397,392 Total project cost
  • £2,774,071 Total grant value
  • 8 Sites improved
  • 17 New 3G FTPs
  • 6 Changing rooms / pavilions
  • 37 Grass pitches improved

See Football foundation website for more info (http://www.footballfoundation.org.uk/impact/where-our-money-goes)

Sport England

Has a network of planning managers who have a statutory role in the planning system to protect playing fields and provide consultation responses to planning applications relating to sporting facilities . They also play a key role in strategic planning for sports facilities, providing advice and support to Local Authorities to assess need for facilities in their local area.

Professional Club Community Organisations (CCOs)

These continue to expand and enhance their range of community delivery, offering a variety of programmes and services to support local communities (sporting and non-sporting). Foundation 92, the charitable trust of Salford City FC delivers a number of programmes focusing on improving physical and mental wellbeing, supporting people with disabilities, and offering opportunities for young people who have, or may be at risk of, committing offences.

The Manchester United Foundation operates within the Authority. Through its hub school programme at the Co-op Academy in Swinton, it delivers a range of programmes, including a Friday night Kicks session.

Local consultation

This has taken place with a broad and diverse set of community groups in Salford. A total of 19 individuals (representing 15 local organisations) were consulted. These include:

  • Salford City Council
  • Salford Community Leisure
  • Foundation 92 (Salford City FC)
  • Hamilton Davies Trust
  • North Walkden FC
  • Salford District Junior League

(See Appendix B for full list of consultees)

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Local football

Clubs

There are over 91,000 community football teams in England, spread over an expansive network of clubs and leagues. Salford has a total of 486 teams, which is comparable to local areas of a similar size.

The FA is investing to support clubs both on and off the pitch which includes an aim to have a qualified FA coach with every youth team by 2020/21. In addition, it will support 1,000 clubs to create full player pathways from youth to adult teams and develop 150 community football hubs with male and female pathways, disability and recreational playing opportunities.

Over the last 10-years there has been a significant national increase in the number of large multi-team football clubs. In Salford, 16 clubs have more than 10 registered teams. The largest of these (based upon 2017-18 affiliation data) are:

  • Moorside Rangers – 44 teams
  • Beechfield United – 26 teams
  • Barrhill – 25 teams
  • De La Salle – 24 teams
  • Boothstown – 23 teams
  • FC Bridgewater of Worsley – 20 teams
  • Swinton – 20 teams
  • North Walkden FC- 20 teams.
  • Irlam Vale – 18 teams

Affiliated Teams

486 Teams
  • 119 Adult male teams
  • 7 Adult female teams
  • 157 Youth male teams
  • 33 Youth female teams
  • 25 Disability teams
  • 144 Mini-soccer teams

The FA Whole Game System- season 2017/18

Leagues

Four leagues operate in Salford. They offer competitive opportunities for many different players, including disability, youth and adults. While there are no specific league opportunities for Girls within Salford, there is however suitable provision provided in neighbouring Trafford.

  • Salford largest local leagues (2017-18) include:
  • Salford & District League– 251 teams– home and away
  • Greater Manchester Ability Counts League – 52 teams– central venue
  • Eccles Sunday League – 28 teams– home and away

The County FA reports that there is some cross boundary migration in Salford due to teams migrating inwards to the Greater Manchester Ability Counts League, and outwards to the Bolton Bury & District JFL in Bolton, and the Timperley & District League in Stockport.

Disability football

There are 9.4million people in England with a long-standing limiting disability, illness or condition which equates to 18% of the population – almost one in five. Football playing opportunities should be flexible, inclusive and accessible for everyone, whatever their level of ability. This could entail inclusion in mainstream activity or teams / sessions specifically for people with a disability.

In Salford there are 25 football teams / sessions specifically for people with a disability. It is a priority of the County FA to grow this provision. For talented players the FA run Regional Centres and England national squads.

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Women and girls

The FA has big ambitions for the female game and aims to double levels of participation by 2020. To achieve this requires a combined effort across four pathways: education, recreation, competition and talent.

Education environments have a huge impact on the first experience of football for young girls. This pathway can offer many opportunities for females of all ages to develop and grow a lifelong interest in football.

FA Wildcats girls football centres provide the first step on the recreational pathway, the programme provides girls aged 5-11 with regular opportunities to play football in a fun and engaging environment. Salford has 1 FA Wildcats girls football centres and the priority is to grow this activity.

At 40, Salford’s number of female teams is comparable to local areas of a similar size. The County FA’s priority is to support existing clubs to grow and encourage more clubs to develop playing opportunities for females. The local girls league is the South Manchester Girls League and matches are played on a home and away & central venue basis. The league is expected to grow its provision in future years. The local adult female league is the Greater Manchester Women’s League and matches are played on a home and away basis and the league is expected to grow its provision in future years.

For talented players, the most local FA Regional Talent Club (RTC) is Manchester United which is located in Salford . Higher level talent pathway opportunities are also provided regionally and nationally by the FA, culminating in the England Women’s national squads. The most local Women’s Super League team is Manchester City (Manchester United to be introduced from 2018/19 season), which provides player pathway opportunities for gifted and talented female players and a spectator interest for fans.

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Small-sided football

Many different types of small-sided football are played in England, from teams and leagues to recreational and informal. It is an established and important part of the modern game.

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Small-sided teams & leagues are organised and competitive activities; typically with players registered to clubs and affiliated to leagues and their County FAs. Examples include Futsal and local small-sided leagues running at venues such as sports halls, 3G FTPs or small-sided 3G centres.

Key local providers include

  • Salford Community Leisure
  • University of Salford

Futsal is an exciting, fast-paced, small sided team game that is widely played across the world. Typically it’s played on an indoor surface with hockey-sized goals and a size 4 football with reduced ball bounce. It is the FA’s aim to ensure Futsal is available across the country.

There is currently one futsal team in Salford that plays in the Manchester Futsal League at key site locations including Trafford Powerleague. It is a priority for the County FA to grow Futsal for male, female, youth and adult players.

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Recreational football

Recreational football is played where facilities are typically booked and there might be someone to help organise. Examples include FA Just Play sessions, walking football and casual pitch hire for small-sided match play.

There are currently two FA Just Play Centres in Salford. Walking football sessions are delivered by a range of community organisation such as Manchester Community Walking Football Club. Walking football and Just Play are areas that the County FA has prioritised for further growth and development. Other local recreational football programmes include man vs fat, pro-club community scheme activity and casual bookings, which are delivered by a range of organisations including Manchester United Foundation and Man vs Fat.

Informal football

Informal football is played in local parks and green spaces – it is free, open access and often played spontaneously (normal clothing is worn). Common examples include a kick-about at a local park or on a multi-use games area (MUGA).

Currently, informal football in Salford is played particularly in the east and central part of the Borough. David Lewis, Peel Park, Albert Part and Beech Farm are key site locations that are heavily used.

Summary

The key strengths of local football in Salford include Youth, Adult male and Disability provision and it is recommend that this is sustained and also encouraged to grow further. However, there are aspects of football provision that are lower than local authorities of a similar size, these include Wildcats Centres.

It is therefore recommended that the future football development priorities for Salford are:

  1. Continued growth for Disability Provision
  2. Growth of Wildcats Centre
  3. Introduction of a flexible format for youth male

The facilities required to assist this are now set out in the Assets and Opportunities section.

Additionally, each priority project that progresses to a funding application via the Football Foundation will produce a detailed ‘site development plan’ specifying all football development activity, usage and key partner engagement. .

Assets and Opportunities

03

This section reviews existing football facility assets in Salford. It identifies current issues and presents opportunities for improvements, including a list of priority projects for potential investment.

Local assets and opportunities have been reviewed inline with four investment priorities:

  1. 3G FTPs
  2. Improved grass pitches
  3. Changing room pavilions / clubhouses
  4. Small-sided facilities

To ensure a consistent and high quality approach, each local area has been reviewed applying a standard approach, supplemented by input from consultation with local partners and stakeholder organisations.

While each investment priority is reviewed individually, it is understood that they can be inter-reliant; account is, thus, taken of these potential connections.

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3G Football Turf Pitches (FTPs)

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Improved grass pitches

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Changing room pavilions/ clubhouses

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Small-sided facilities

3G Football Turf pitches (FTPs)

04

3G FTPs are a high quality and indispensable part of modern football facilities; their impact cannot be underestimated. In recent years the industry has seen major innovations and improvements to artificial surfaces (and sports lighting). This has created playing surfaces that replicate a good standard natural turf pitch whilst significantly increasing levels of use (x20). All FTPs must have sports lighting to achieve this.

The high quality, consistent playing surface is the ideal environment to play the game and for young people to learn. With regular maintenance programmes, FTPs can be heavily used all year round with no decline in quality. They almost completely negate annoying fixture cancellations during winter months, helping football to be a key part of a regular physical activity habit.

High capacity levels offer a great opportunity to embrace all formats and engage all participants. A full-sized 3G caters for an average of 1,200 participants per week and is suitable for various location types. That means being fully inclusive to all sections of the community, with a particular focus on under-represented groups such as women and girls, people with a disability, BAME communities and people from lower socio-economic groups.

The way 3G FTPs are used is rapidly changing; current line-marking systems allow for match play across all formats of football (5v5, 7v7, 9v9 and 11v11). This enables significant levels of match-play to be transferred from grass to 3G.

The national ‘Mini Pitch’ programme delivers small 3G FTPs at primary school sites to provide a high quality introduction to football and get children more physically active. While mini pitches are reviewed in this section, they are not included in the demand and supply analysis for 3G FTPs.

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Assets and opportunities

FA data states that there are currently 10 3G FTPs in Salford. These include three sites which are undersized (Ordsall Leisure Centre, Salford City Academy and Moorside High School), however, are included in the total supply as it is assumed they can accommodate the majority of junior match play. Consequently this results in a current shortfall of one 3G FTP pitch which is projected to rise to two pitches by 2028.

Existing 3G FTPs in Salford:

  • Albert Park
  • Irlam and Cadishead College
  • Salford City College
  • AJ Bell Stadium
  • Salford Sports Village
  • St Ambrose Barlow High School
  • Walkden High School
  • Ordsall Leisure Centre
  • Salford City Academy
  • Moorside High School

There is currently one small-sided 3G FTP centre in Salford:

  • Salford Sports Village

Additionally there are two small sided pitches. These are:

  • Eccles RFC (60m*40m)
  • Beech Farm Playing Fields (5v5)

Salford University (David Lewis Playing Fields) has also submitted a planning application for a full size 3G FTP, which will have community use. This would reduce the FTP requirement by one full size pitch if approved. The pitch however, will not require Football Foundation funding and is not factored into the above shortfall requirement.

In addition, the Council is in the early stages of developing a feasibility on the development of Pendleton Leisure Centre, which is likely to include small sided provision (9v9 3G FTP). It is likely that the Council will seek partnership funding from the Football Foundation to support this. The new centre will replace the existing Clarendon Leisure Centre.

Consultation indicates that all current pitches are available for community use. Three are on the FA Register for 3G FTPs (meaning they are quality checked and can be used for football match play). It is strongly recommend that the six remaining pitches are put on the register to enable more match play on 3G.

Provision is located in the north, east and the west of the Authority, however, there is a gap within the central area despite high levels of both population and deprivation. As is recommended in the PPS and endorsed by LFFP consultees, this should be addressed.

Pitch carpets at both Salford Sports Village and Albert Park are approaching the end of their lives. Albert Park’s pitch was relaid in 2007 and Salford Sports Village’s was built in 2006. Both pitches are reported to be popular for affiliated and recreational football and are key to the continued delivery of the sport in the Authority.

Local consultation with clubs also reveals common issues with high pricing and lack of availability, particularly at school sites. It must be noted, however, that the hire prices for 3G FTP in Salford are equivalent to prices across the country and are standardised across the city.

10 Current 3G FTPs
2 More 3G FTPs required
1 More small-sided 3G FTPs required

Priority projects

Six priority projects for potential investment have been identified. Three are new pitches which will address the shortfall identified in the PPS, and three are pitch refurbishments. Undersupply was calculated using the Salford’s PPS report. Each site was endorsed by local partners based on a rationale of good access, high population, geographical spread, success and quality of existing facilities, high levels of deprivation and high levels of lower social economic groups:

1- Pendleton Leisure Centre : Install new floodlit 9 v 9 3G FTP

  • Existing facilities – existing dilapidated sand dressed FTP at Clarendon Leisure Centre, unused for several years.
  • Existing users: n/a
  • Rationale – New leisure centre development in one of the most deprived areas of the country. Venue will develop growth in the following: women & girls participation, junior football, informal / recreational football and provide opportunities for people from lower socio–economic groups

2- Irlam and Cadishead Leisure Centre: Install new full size 3G FTP

  • Existing facilities – open land adjacent to leisure centre. Changing provision at leisure centre.
  • Existing users: n/a
  • Rationale – Limited provision in the area to support clubs and recreational demand. Venue will develop growth in the following: women & girls participation, senior football, junior football, informal / recreational football and provide opportunities for people from lower socio – economic groups.

3- Albert Park: Refurbishment of existing 11 v 11 3G FTP

  • Existing facilities – Floodlit 11 v 11 FTP. Changing provision.
  • Existing users: Broughton Community Users, Manchester Polonia Football Club, St Philips Trinity FC.
  • Rationale – Pitch carpet approaching end of anticipated life and upgrade is required. Investment will support growth in: women & girls participation, senior football, junior football, informal / recreational football, BAME communities and provide opportunities for people from lower socio – economic groups.


4- Duncan Mathieson Playing Fields: Install new full size 3G FTP

  • Existing facilities – disused grass site which has eight adult pitches. Condemned changing provision.
  • Existing users – n/a
  • Rationale – Section 106 Funding would be provided if nearby housing development receives planning permission which would be used to support the creation of a multi pitch hub. The developed venue could comprise of 3G and grass pitches. It will support growth in the following: junior football, senior football, informal/recreational football, women and girls football and provide opportunities for people from lower socio – economic groups.

5- Beach Farm Playing Fields: Upgrade of existing 5 v 5 FTP

  • Existing facilities: Four full size equivalent pitches. Changing provision. 5 V 5 FTP.
  • Existing users: Beechfield United and Moorside Rangers.
  • Rationale: Poor quality 5 v 5 FTP. Investment required to provide opportunities for junior football and informal / recreational football.


7- Salford Sports Village: Refurbishment of existing 11 v 11 3G FTP and small sided pitches

  • Existing facilities – Floodlit 11 v 11 FTP. Changing provision.
  • Existing users: AFC Salford Juniors, Beechfield United, Cadishead Rhino’s ladies, FC United Disability Team, Heyside FC, Manchester Community Walking Football club.
  • Rationale – Pitch carpets approaching end of anticipated life and upgrade is required. It will support growth in the following : women & girls participation, senior football, junior football, disability football, informal / recreational football, over 50s, BAME communities and provide opportunities for people from lower socio – economic groups.

Current 3G pitches and sites identifies for investment

Pitchfinder

Improved Grass Pitches

05

Playing fields are one of the most important resources for sport in England. All football players should have the opportunity to play on good quality grass pitches. However, FA data shows that 63% of pitches in England are poor / low standard and 1 in 6 games are cancelled. As such, poor pitch quality is consistently cited as the number one issue for players.

The priority is, therefore, to sustainably improve grass pitch quality across all main pitch owners (local authorities, education establishments and clubs). However, the level of maintenance required to obtain good quality standards is regularly affected by restricted budgets and limited knowledge/ training. Compaction and grass coverage are two key causes of poor quality pitches. Both are commonly treated via a maintenance driven solution (and do not necessarily require costly drainage schemes).

Playing fields are also a valuable resources for informal play and open-access sites are encouraged but, for many, problems such as dog fouling and vandalism mean that they need to be protected with mitigation measures such as fencing.

In many local areas the key challenge is to create a sustainable approach to provide good quality football pitches for the long-term. Many local authorities (78%) intend to increase pitch hire fees in the future. However, many players (63%) believe facilities are already expensive and some (16%) believe prices are prohibitive. A sustainable solution should, therefore, carefully balance pitch quality and affordability.

While the education sector (37%) and local authorities (32%) are still the principal asset owners of grass pitches, clubs / leagues own or maintain an increasing share (currently 25%). Assets and opportunities have been considered across each sector.

Although large (3+ pitch) strategic sites are important and make up much of the project list within the LFFPs, this does not mean that other club, league and community/voluntary sites are not important or eligible for funding. These sites are key to the Football Foundation's Grass Pitch Programme to deliver 20,000 good quality pitches.

For more information click here.

PitchPower

The PitchPower app is the gateway to any grass pitch improvement funding. It is the tool that will allow clubs and organisations to complete pitch inspections and access funds.

If you haven't signed up and completed a PitchPower pitch inspection, you will need to do this before you can apply for the Grass Pitch Maintenance Fund.

Learn more by clicking here.

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Assets and opportunities

There are currently 10 grass pitch sites in Salford with three or more full-size pitch equivalents. Of these, two are considered to have good quality pitches, and eight are considered to have poor quality pitches.

In addition, there are two sites of less than three pitches which are deemed to be strategically important and identified as being in need of investment.

Local consultation shows common issues with poor drainage and informal access. It is recommended that these are addressed.

10 Key grass pitch sites
10 Sites prioritised for improvement
64 Full-sized pitch equivalents at these sites

Priority projects

Ten priority projects for potential investment have been identified. Pitch quality ratings were evidenced by the current PPS, FA data and qualified by local clubs and steering group members. The prioritisation list was endorsed by local partners with the rationale of selecting sites in the poorest condition with a strategic focus to increase football participation.

4- Duncan Mathieson Playing Fields: Works to natural grass pitches

  • Existing facilities: Disused site with eight adult pitches. Condemned changing provision.
  • Existing users: n/a
  • Rationale: Section 106 Funding would be provided if nearby housing development receives planning permission which would be used to support the creation of a multi pitch hub. It will support growth in junior football, senior football, informal/recreational football, women and girls football and provide opportunities for people from lower socio–economic groups.

5- Beech Farm Playing Fields : Works to natural grass pitches.

  • Existing facilities: Four full size equivalent pitches. Changing provision. 5 V 5 FTP.
  • Existing users: Beechfield United and Moorside Rangers.
  • Rationale – Grass pitches and changing facilities of poor quality. Investment required to support junior football and recreational football.

6- Amblecote Playing Fields: Works to natural grass pitches.

  • Existing facilities: Four full size equivalent pitches. No changing provision.
  • Existing users: North Walkden FC
  • Rationale – Poor quality grass pitches with no changing provision. Grass pitch improvement and new changing provision to support the growth of junior football.

7- Salford Sports Village: Works to natural grass pitches.

  • Existing facilities: 16 full size equivalent pitches. Changing provision. 3G FTP.
  • Existing users: AFC Salford Juniors, Beechfield United, Cadishead Rhino’s ladies, FC United Disability Team, Heyside FC, Manchester Community Walking Football club. .
  • Rationale – Strategic site which has poor quality pitches. Investment required to support junior football and recreational football.

8- Bolton Road Playing Field: Works to natural grass pitches.

  • Existing facilities: 10 full size equivalent pitches. Changing facilities.
  • Existing users: Mooreside Rangers, Winton FC and Beechfield United FC.
  • Rationale: Grass pitches and changing facilities of poor quality. Investment required to support junior and senior football.

9- Brookhouse Playing Fields: Works to natural grass pitches.

  • Existing facilities: 11 full size equivalent pitches. Changing facilities.
  • Existing users: Eccles Sunday League and AFC Monton
  • Rationale: Grass pitches and changing rooms of poor quality. Investment required to support junior football.

10- Broughton Hub: Works to natural grass pitches.

  • Existing facilities: Two full size equivalent pitches currently disused. Changing facilities.
  • Existing users: Disused site
  • Rationale: Poor quality pitches caused by inadequate construction materials combined with a collapsed drain. Site currently disused, potential opportunity to support junior football (Kersal Juniors).

11- Rabbit Hills Playing Fields: Works to natural grass pitches.

  • Existing facilities: three full size equivalent pitches
  • Existing users: Salford United FC
  • Rationale – Grass pitches and changing rooms of poor quality. Investment required to support women and girls, junior and over 50 football.

12- Stott Lane Playing Fields: Works to natural grass pitches.

  • Existing facilities: three full size equivalent pitches. Changing facilities.
  • Existing users: Beechfield United and Moorside Rangers
  • Rationale – Poor quality grass pitches. Investment required to support junior football.

13- Wharton Playing Fields: Works to natural grass pitches

  • Existing facilities: four full size equivalent pitches. Changing facilities.
  • Existing users: Walkden FC
  • Rationale: Grass pitches and changing rooms of poor quality. Investment required to support junior football.

Strategic grass pitch sites, and those identified for investment

Pitchfinder

Changing room pavilions / clubhouses

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These can provide a number of different benefits. While the primary function is normally the provision of changing rooms to accommodate match-play and training (for players and officials), there can be equal value in facilities such as community and education rooms, catering facilities and spectator toilets.

Each project will take a progressive approach to pavilions and clubhouses (beyond the provision of changing rooms) and be open to new opportunities to engage the whole community. That means, creating environments that are welcoming to players, spectators, volunteers, officials and all sections of the community.

Such assets should support other investment priorities (e.g. 3G FTPs and grass pitches) and be located at sites that will have the greatest impact on local communities. To ensure this, focus is given to sites with three or more full-size pitch equivalents. However, as pitch quality is the number one priority for players this is prioritised before investment in changing room pavilions /clubhouses.

Clearly, facilities need to be well managed and maintained to keep them in a good state of repair. Consideration will be given to reviewing the best operator solution for key sites and the installation of revenue generating features such as catering facilities and community rooms. To achieve this, business plan support will be given to each priority project as it progresses to an application to the Football Foundation.

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Assets and opportunities

Of the 12 strategically significant sites, four have suitable changing room pavilions/clubhouses, six have existing facilities that need improvement/ replacement and two have no facilities and require a new changing pavilion.

4 key sites have suitable changing rooms/ pavilions/ clubhouses
6 require improvement/ replacement
2 have no facilities and require new builds

Priority projects

Eight priority projects for potential investment have therefore been identified. Each project has three or more full-size pitch equivalent or identified as a strategically significant site for football development and has either no facilities or was assessed against a standard criteria to have an unsuitable pavilion.

4- Duncan Mathieson Playing Fields: Upgrade changing pavilion

  • Existing facilities – Disused site with three adult pitches. Condemned changing provision.
  • Existing users – n/a
  • Rationale – Section 106 Funding would be provided if nearby housing development receives planning permission which would be used to support the creation of a multi pitch hub. It will support growth in junior football, senior football, informal/recreational football, women and girls football and provide opportunities for people from lower socio–economic groups.

5- Beech Farm Playing Fields: Changing provision upgrade

  • Existing facilities: Four full size equivalent pitches. Changing provision. 5 V 5 FTP.
  • Existing users: Beechfield United and Moorside Rangers.
  • Rationale – Changing facilities of poor quality. Investment required to support junior football and recreational football.

6- Amblecote Playing Fields: New changing pavilion

  • Existing facilities: Four full size equivalent pitches. No changing provision.
  • Existing users: North Walkden FC
  • Rationale – Poor quality grass pitches with no changing provision. Grass pitch improvement and new changing provision to support the growth of junior football.

8- Bolton Road Playing Field: Changing provision upgrade

  • Existing facilities: 10 full size equivalent pitches. Changing facilities.
  • Existing users: Moorside Rangers, Winton FC and Beechfield United FC
  • Rationale - Changing facilities of poor quality. Investment required to support junior and senior football.

9- Brookhouse Playing Fields: Changing provision upgrade

  • Existing facilities: 11 full size equivalent pitches. Changing facilities.
  • Existing users: Eccles Sunday League and AFC Monton
  • Rationale – Changing rooms of poor quality. Investment required to support junior football.

11- Rabbit Hills Playing Fields: Changing provision upgrade.

  • Existing facilities: Three full size equivalent pitches
  • Existing users: Salford United FC
  • Rationale – Changing rooms of poor quality. Investment required to support women and girls, junior and over 50 football.

13- Wharton Playing Fields: Changing provision upgrade.

  • Existing facilities: Four full size equivalent pitches. Changing facilities.
  • Existing users: North Walkden FC
  • Rationale - Changing rooms of poor quality. Investment required to support junior football.

14- Old Racecourse Playing Fields: New changing pavilion

  • Existing facilities: Seven full size equivalent pitches. No changing facilities.
  • Existing users: n/a
  • Rationale – Recent investment to improve grass pitch quality. No changing provision to support the grass pitch improvement. Investment required to support junior and senior football.

Current sites with changing provision, and ones identified for investment

Pitchfinder

Small-sided facilities

07

Good facilities are important to all small-sided football players, but it is important to understand the different formats of the small-sided game and the various facility types they relate to.

Research suggests that small-sided players in teams & leagues, and in recreational sessions, prefer a 3G surface type because it replicates a good standard natural turf pitch. These facilities have already been covered in the 3G FTP section of this LFFP.

Indoor environments currently accommodate 20% of football participation and are also popular with players in teams & leagues and recreational sessions . Indoor sports halls are most popular, along with some community halls and indoor 3G centres. Environments need to be engaging, have clear line-marking and the correct size goalposts.

Informal players require facilities that are open and free to access as this enables play opportunities that are often spontaneous. In these circumstances multi-use games areas (MUGAs) can be effective in areas of high urban population and limited green space. Such facilities can be modern, bright, creative and engaging. While this plan will identify suitable locations for such facilities, the design and specifics of the facility type can be agreed at a later stage with Football Foundation staff when projects are ready to progress to pre-application stage.

Parks and open green spaces are also important to informal play and require goalposts and zones that are free from litter and dog fouling.

SS Facilities 1.png
SS Facilities 2.png

Priority projects

0 Better Indoor spaces
3 MUGAs
0 Better parks/ open green spaces

Indoor

Local consultation reveals there are no indoor facilities that require improvement to develop small-sided football.

Multi-use Games Areas (MUGAs)

Three potential opportunities for MUGA’s have been identified. In each case the rationale is based on the site being in an area of high urban population , limited green space , high levels of deprivation, high levels of lower social economic groups and corresponding high local demand for informal football:

3- Albert Park: New floodlit MUGA

  • Existing facilities – Floodlit 11 v 11 FTP. Changing provision.
  • Existing users: Broughton Community Users, Manchester Polonia Football Club, St Philips Trinity FC.
  • Rationale – limited informal floodlit provision. Investment will support growth in junior football, Informal / recreational football and provide opportunities for people from lower socio–economic groups.

15- Salisbury Road: MUGA upgrade.

  • Existing facilities: MUGA
  • Existing users: used for recreational football
  • Rationale – poor quality MUGA . Investment required to provide opportunities for informal / recreational football. and potentially support Deans Football Club.

16- Overdale, (adjecent Swinton Lions) : MUGA upgrade.

  • Existing facilities: MUGA
  • Existing users: used for recreational football
  • Rationale –poor quality MUGA . Investment required to provide opportunities for informal / recreational football and potentially support Swinton Football Club.

Parks and open green spaces

Following local consultation, no locations have been identified to support small-sided informal football.

Small sided and recreational proposals

Pitchfinder

Appendix A: Priority Project List

08

This list compiles all of the priority projects for potential investment. Each project has been scored against two principle factors: deliverability and outcomes (quality, inclusivity, sustainability, engagement and usage).

The list will be used flexibly; a projects ‘rating’ does not determine the exact order that it will progress to a funding application to the Football Foundation as we understand there are many factors that influence this. The process for moving a project from this list and into the ‘pre-application stage’ will be managed by the Football Foundation.

2

2. Irlam and Cadishead Leisure Centre:

Location

IRLAM AND CADISHEAD LEISURE CENTRE LIVERPOOL ROAD, IRLAM, MANCHESTER, , M44 6BR

Facilities
  • New 11v11 Floodlit 3G FTP (1)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

Very High (4/4)

NFFS outcome score

3.0/4

Overall score

83% (10.0/12)

Project Focus

Adult female; Adult male; Disability; IMD / lower social economic groups; Mini-soccer; Small-sided informal; Small-sided recreational; Small-sided teams and leagues; Youth female; Youth male

9

9. Brookhouse Playing Fields

Location

BROOKHOUSE PLAYING FIELDS BOOKHOUSE SPORTS CENTRE BUCKTHORN LANE, ECCLES, MANCHESTER, , M30 7QH

Facilities
  • Refurbish Changing Pavilion (1)
  • Natural grass pitch improvements (11)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

Very High (4/4)

NFFS outcome score

3.0/4

Overall score

83% (10.0/12)

Project Focus

Adult female; Adult male; Small-sided teams and leagues; Youth female; Youth male

7

7. Salford Sports Village:

Location

SALFORD SPORTS VILLAGE 325 Littleton Road, Salford, , M7 3NQ

Facilities
  • Refurbish existing 11v11 3G FTP (1)
  • Natural grass pitch improvements (16)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

High (3/4)

NFFS outcome score

3.2/4

Overall score

79% (9.4/12)

Project Focus

Adult male; Youth female; Youth male

1

1. Pendleton Leisure Centre

Location

Location details: Pendleton Leisure Centre

Facilities
  • New 9v9 Floodlit 3G FTP (1)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

High (3/4)

NFFS outcome score

3.0/4

Overall score

75% (9.0/12)

Project Focus

Mini-soccer; Small-sided informal; Small-sided recreational; Small-sided teams and leagues; Youth female; Youth male

5

5. Beech Farm Playing Fields

Location

BEECH FARM PLAYING FIELDS 48 BROWNING ROAD, SWINTON, MANCHESTER, , M27 0NH

Facilities
  • Natural grass pitch improvements (4)
  • Refurbish existing 5v5 3G FTP (1)
  • Refurbish Changing Pavilion (1)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

High (3/4)

NFFS outcome score

3.0/4

Overall score

75% (9.0/12)

Project Focus

BAME; Mini-soccer; Small-sided informal; Small-sided recreational; Small-sided teams and leagues; Youth female; Youth male

6

6. Amblecote Playing Fields

Location

AMBLECOTE PLAYING FIELDS Cleggs Lane, Little Hulton, Manchester, , M38 9NJ

Facilities
  • Natural grass pitch improvements (4)
  • New Changing Pavilion (1)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

High (3/4)

NFFS outcome score

3.0/4

Overall score

75% (9.0/12)

Project Focus

Adult female; Adult male; Small-sided teams and leagues; Youth female; Youth male

8

8. Bolton Road Playing Field

Location

Location details: Bolton Road Playing Field

Facilities
  • Refurbish Changing Pavilion (1)
  • Natural grass pitch improvements (10)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

High (3/4)

NFFS outcome score

3.0/4

Overall score

75% (9.0/12)

Project Focus

Adult female; Adult male; Youth female; Youth male

13

13. Wharton Playing Fields

Location

WHARTON PLAYING FIELDS 17 ASHAWE TERRACE, LITTLE HULTON, MANCHESTER, , M38 0EW

Facilities
  • Refurbish Changing Pavilion (1)
  • Natural grass pitch improvements (4)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

High (3/4)

NFFS outcome score

3.0/4

Overall score

75% (9.0/12)

Project Focus

Adult female; Adult male; Youth female; Youth male

14

14. Old Racecourse Playing Fields

Location

Location details: Old Racecourse Playing Fields

Facilities
  • New Changing Pavilion (1)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

High (3/4)

NFFS outcome score

3.0/4

Overall score

75% (9.0/12)

11

11. Rabbit Hills Playing Fields

Location

RABBIT HILLS PLAYING FIELDS 104 BOLTON ROAD, PENDLEBURY, SWINTON, MANCHESTER, , M27 8XA

Facilities
  • Refurbish Changing Pavilion (1)
  • Natural grass pitch improvements (3)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

High (3/4)

NFFS outcome score

2.8/4

Overall score

71% (8.6/12)

3

3. Albert Park

Location

ALBERT PARK Off Great Clowes Street, Salford, , M7 1LS

Facilities
  • Refurbish existing 11v11 3G FTP (1)
  • Small sided informal (MUGA) (1)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

Medium (2/4)

NFFS outcome score

3.0/4

Overall score

67% (8.0/12)

Project Focus

Adult female; Adult male; BAME; Disability; IMD / lower social economic groups; Mini-soccer; Small-sided informal; Small-sided recreational; Small-sided teams and leagues; Youth female; Youth male

4

4. Duncan Mathieson Playing Fields

Location

DUNCAN MATHIESON PLAYING FIELDS Odessa Avenue, Salford, , M6 8LG

Facilities
  • New 11v11 Floodlit 3G FTP (1)
  • Natural grass pitch improvements (8)
  • Refurbish Changing Pavilion (1)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

Medium (2/4)

NFFS outcome score

2.9/4

Overall score

65% (7.8/12)

Project Focus

Adult female; Adult male; Disability; IMD / lower social economic groups; Mini-soccer; Pro-club; Small-sided recreational; Youth female; Youth male

15

15. Salisbury Road

Location

Location details: Salisbury Road

Facilities
  • Small sided informal (MUGA) (1)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

High (3/4)

NFFS outcome score

2.1/4

Overall score

60% (7.2/12)

Project Focus

IMD / lower social economic groups; Mini-soccer; Small-sided informal; Small-sided recreational

12

12. Stott Lane Playing Fields:

Location

Location details: Stott Lane Playing Fields

Facilities
  • Natural grass pitch improvements (3)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

Medium (2/4)

NFFS outcome score

2.6/4

Overall score

59% (7.1/12)

10

10. Broughton Hub

Location

BROUGHTON LEISURE CENTRE , GREAT CHEETHAM STREET WEST, SALFORD, , M7 2DN

Facilities
  • Natural grass pitch improvements (2)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

Medium (2/4)

NFFS outcome score

2.4/4

Overall score

57% (6.9/12)

Project Focus

Adult female; Adult male; Youth female; Youth male

16

16. Overdale, (adjacent Swinton FC)

Location

SWINTON FC PLAYING FIELD AND CLUBHOUSE BARTON ROAD, SWINTON, , M27 5LJ

Facilities
  • Small sided informal (MUGA) (1)
Owner

Local Authority

Deliverability score

Medium (2/4)

NFFS outcome score

2.4/4

Overall score

56% (6.7/12)

Project Focus

IMD / lower social economic groups; Small-sided informal; Small-sided recreational

A project's overall score provides an indication of its potential outcomes and deliverability only (weighted twice as much towards the outcomes score). It does not impact the likelihood or level of any potential investment.

Appendix B: Consultation List

09

  • Head of Service: Salford Community Leisure
  • Football Development Officer: Salford Community Leisure
  • Parks and Countryside Manager : Salford City Council
  • Planning officer: Salford City Council
  • Children’s Services: Salford City Council
  • Public Health Strategic Manager: Salford City Council
  • Foundation Manager: Foundation 92
  • Foundation Manager: Manchester United Foundation
  • Area Coordinator: Langworthy Cornerstone
  • Activities Manger: The Broughton Trust
  • Neighbourhood Manager: Salix Homes
  • Director of Neighbourhoods: City West Housing Trust and Villages
  • Community Manager: Albert of Salford
  • Chairman: Walkden FC
  • Secretary: Moorside Rangers
  • Chairman: Irlam Vale FC
  • Chairman: De La Salle Football club
  • League Chairman: Salford district Junior League
  • League Chairman: Eccles Sunday League

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