Playing pitch strategy
November 2021
1. Purpose of report and executive summary
1.1 To present an assessment of the current provision of sports pitches within the Borough and identify what the anticipated future demand in terms of quality and quantity of pitches will be by 2036 to meet demand using Football Association methodology. The report identifies a long-term level of provision for the Council to work towards.
1.2 Variation in demand will be experienced through the 15-year period with changing age and gender mixes playing requiring a different mix and number of pitch sizes. Through regular review and amendment of the provision of pitches demand will be accommodated, moving towards the long term identified provision.
1.3 It should be noted that the proposals in this strategy do not commit the Council or its partners to the funding, provision or management of sites. The recommended actions will be used as a guide for investment, including via the Community Infrastructure Levy, other developers’ contributions, and national governing body of sport funding.
1.4 The level of provision and proposed action plan are identified in the following appendices:
- Appendix 1 – Pitch provision 2020/21
- Appendix 2 – Site Action Plans 2019-2036
2. Recommended action
2.1 The Council will endeavour to provide sufficient sports pitches, subject to available funding, to accommodate the predicted demand up to 2036 for Football, Cricket, Rugby, Hockey, Lacrosse, Gaelic Football and Australian Rules Football as identified in Table 8 at 6.1 and Table 9 at 6.2
2.2 The Playing Pitch Strategy (PPS) laid out within this report is adopted, including the updated site action plan in Appendix 2. This is based upon research undertaken by sports provision consultants 4Global in 2019.
2.3 The action plan in Appendix 2 be reviewed every three years, including consultation with pitch users, to reflect changing demands through to 2036.
3. Policy context
3.1 The current playing pitch strategy has expired and Sport England recommend having a current strategy in place to support planning policy and support funding applications. This report summarises the current provision, anticipated future demand and proposes recommended actions for a range of grass pitch based sports. Appendix 2 sets out in more detail the recommended actions at locations across the borough to meet the anticipated demand by 2036.
3.2 There are currently 79 football pitches (from 7 to 11 aside), six rugby pitches, six hockey pitches, one Gaelic football pitch, one Australian rules pitch and 56 cricket wickets (strips) in Reading. Grass pitches are able to sustain a different number of games per week or season depending on age of players, ground conditions and maintenance. In Reading some pitches are overused and some are underused. The current provision significantly over provides adult football pitches for both current and future demand and far too few junior pitches to meet future demand, unless changes are made. This strategy and accompanying action plan sets out a direction of travel that will improve the quality of pitches and vary some pitch sizes to accommodate a wider range of players, which will enable the borough to meet anticipated demand by 2036.
3.3 The recommended actions in Appendix 2 have been prioritised using Sport England methodology, in line with national governing bodies of sport priorities. Some of the recommended actions can be funded through existing maintenance budgets, or through CIL and S106 as and when they become available. However, the significant recommended improvements, for example new artificial turf pitches, will be subject to securing external funding, which may also require match funding. As part of the recommended actions, the Council is keen to explore partnerships and community use agreements to maintain or increase access to facilities for the whole community. The recommended actions in this strategy do not commit the Council or its partners to the funding, provision or management of sites. They will be used as a guide for investment, including via the Community Infrastructure Levy, other developers’ contributions, and national governing body of sport funding.
3.4 The Council will continue to engage with principal partners, leagues and clubs (those with and without lease agreements) to plan provision for the following season that best meets need. An annual delivery plan will be produced as part of the service planning process.
4. Scope of review
4.1 This playing pitch strategy is one of three pieces of work currently being undertaken to address sport and leisure provision in the borough. Informal recreational play activity, including skateparks, multi-use-games-areas and Children’s playgrounds, are being reviewed as part of a review of outdoor play.
4.2 Reading’s indoor leisure and recreation provision is being met and enhanced by £40 million investment into new leisure facilities within the Borough. This includes a new-build modern leisure centre and two new swimming pools. The new-build leisure centre at Rivermead will offer a 25m competition pool, combined teaching and diving pool, splash pad, 6-court sports hall, 120 station gym, 3 studios and a café and soft play. In addition to the refurbishment of Palmer Park Sports Stadium there will be a new 25m pool, 100 station gym, 3 studios and a café, soft play and party rooms. Both Meadway and South Reading Leisure Centre will also benefit from improvements. Tennis courts are not part of this strategy, however, if in the future funding becomes available for strategic planning then this will be explored.
4.3 Playing Pitch Strategy
4.3.1 The Play Pitch Strategy (PPS) considers existing sports pitches, the anticipated future need for sports pitches, and opportunities for new provision. The initial PPS should be reviewed every three years. Future demand is considered to 2036 in line with the new local plan. The sports facilities assessed are:
- Football
- Cricket
- Rugby Union
- Hockey
- Artificial pitches
- Provision for Gaelic Football, Australian Rules Football and Lacrosse.
4.3.2 The level of provision of pitches was reviewed with consideration given to:
- Sport England methodologies for calculating the demand for pitches
- Fields in Trust Standards for Playing Field provision
- Demand for pitches within Reading
- Known likely changes in demand
4.4 Supply, Quality and Capacity of Existing Pitch Provision
4.4.1 Within the Borough there is wide distribution of pitches and there is sufficient supply of sports field capable of supporting formal team sports. However, some changes are required to provide the opportunity for everyone to play on appropriately sized and quality pitches. Changing pitch sizes and improving pitch quality will support increased use, similarly the development of five Artificial Turf Pitches (ATPs) will significantly improve the availability of sports pitches.
4.4.2 The 2020 supply of pitches is illustrated in Table 1 below. This is updated from the 2019 PPS and includes grass and artificial turf pitches as well as sites not currently in use.
Table 1 – supply of pitches
| Sport | Number of pitches |
|---|---|
| Football Adult 11 v 11 | 32 |
| Football Youth 11 v 11 | 20 |
| Football Junior 9 v 9 | 26 |
| Football Mini 7 v 7 | 12 |
| Football Mini 5 v 5 | 4 |
| Training and Recreational Use (small sided court, non-FA reg) | 10 |
| Hockey | 6 |
| Cricket Wickets | 56 |
| Rugby | 6 |
| Gaelic Football | 1 |
| Australian Rules Football | 1 |
| Lacrosse | 1 |
4.4.3 In assessing the quality of grass football pitches the Football Association’s (FA) methodology and standards have been followed.Factors such as the soil type and fertility of soil, along with how well an area drains, affects the “carrying capacity” of a pitch. The carrying capacity of a pitch identifies the number of games a pitch can accommodate without adverse deterioration of the playing surface. The carrying capacity will vary according to pitch quality and the age group using a pitch; younger groups are lighter and play shorter games. The FA group the ability of pitches to accommodate a varying number of games per week into good quality, standard quality and poor quality in descending order of carrying capacity. A poor-quality pitch surface will deteriorate more quickly with heavy use or in poor weather than a standard or good quality one. This measure therefore reflects the ability of a pitch to accommodate high use not just how elements such as slope, quality of maintenance, or ability to provide a playing surface when used less often.
4.4.4 The carrying capacity (number of games that can be played) of an ATP is determined by the hours available for use during peak time rather than wear and tear. ATP’s tend to be used for both matches and club training throughout the week and evenings.
4.4.5 Grass pitches within the Borough are most frequently used at weekends, with adult games typically taking place on Saturday afternoon or Sunday morning and youth games typically taking place on Saturday morning. Informal training on grass pitches will reduce the carrying capacity of pitches for formal games.
4.5 Current and Future Demand
This sporting season has been severely disrupted by Covid-19, therefore the future demand for provision has been calculated based on the previous season. However, future demand is difficult to predict as there is uncertainty around the rate of recovery from Covid-19. The demand for pitch provision will be reviewed every three years to ensure the appropriate adjustments are made.
5. The proposal
5.1 The provision of sports pitches has been broken down into sport and pitch surface type.
5.2 Football
5.2.1 Football is predominantly played on grass pitches within Reading. Grass pitches, despite their requirement for ongoing maintenance, are essential for accommodating the number of teams / groups wanting to play Football within the Borough. This section of the review looks at grass pitches only as Artificial Turf Pitches (ATPs) are reviewed later.
5.2.2 Pitch size is usually reflective of the age group playing. The FA guidelines for the appropriate pitch size for the age of players can be seen below. However, within Reading there is a need for teams and pitches to be flexible as we move towards the 2036 provision targets.
| Age grouping | Type | Recommended area without runoff* (length x width in yards) | Recommended size including runoff* (length x width in yards) | Recommended size of goal posts (height x width in feet) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mini soccer U7/U8 | 5 v 5 | 40 x 30 | 46 x 36 | 6 x 12 |
| Mini soccer U9/U10 | 7 v 7 | 60 x 40 | 66 x 46 | 6 x 12 |
| Youth U11/12 | 9 v 9 | 80 x 50 | 86 x 56 | 7 x 16 |
| Youth U13/14 | 11 v 11 | 90 x 55 | 96 x 61 | 7 x 21 |
| Youth U15/16 | 11 v 11 | 100 x 60 | 106 x 66 | 8 x 24 |
| Youth U17/18 | 11 v11 | 110 x 70 | 116 x 76 | 8 x 24 |
| Over 18 (senior ages) | 11 v11 | 110 x 70 | 116 x 76 | 8 x 24 |
* Safety area around pitch
5.2.3 Current Provision
Within Reading there are currently:
- 30 Adult 11 v 11 grass pitches
- 18 Youth 11 v 11 grass pitches
- 25 Junior 9 v 9 grass pitches
- 11 Mini 7 v 7 grass pitches
- 1 Mini 5 v 5 grass pitch
The Fields in Trust Standard of 1.21 hectare of sports pitch per 1,000 population is not met within the Borough. However, through improving the quality of grass pitches and providing ATPs the capacity of the pitches provided can be increased to meet anticipated future demand. Given the increasing demand for open space and the response to Climate Change (The Reading Climate Emergency Strategy 2020-25), for example the increased planting of trees to increase canopy cover to 25% by 2030 (RBC Tree Strategy, 2021), it is not possible to increase the total area of grass pitches and to increase canopy cover. Furthermore, increasing the total area of grass pitches to meet the Fields in Trust standard will accommodate more pitches than required. This Standard was adopted prior to the common use of ATPs which are much more efficient in terms of utilisation of space.
Analysis of supply and demand of grass pitches shows that for adult 11 v 11 and mini 5 v 5 current supply meets current demand. Since 2019 there have been changes made to the balance of adult through to mini soccer pitches and current demand is being met, although some junior teams are choosing to use adult pitches. Ongoing changes to provision are required to continue to accommodate the predicted changing demand.
5.2.4 Future Supply and Demand
5.2.5 The carrying capacity of football pitches can be seen in the Table below. Within the Borough all pitches are of standard quality, except for Mapledurham and Victoria Recreation Ground. The following pitches at Mapledurham are of good quality and ready for use: one adult 11 v 11, two youth 11 v 11, one junior 9 v 9 and one mini 7 v 7. At Victoria Recreation Ground the junior 9 v 9 pitch is currently of poor quality.
Table 2 – Carrying Capacity of Football Pitches (Match Equivalent Sessions)
| Group | Poor quality | Standard quality | Good quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult 11 v 11 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| Youth 11 v 11 | 1 | 2 | 4 |
| Junior 9 v 9 | 1 | 2 | 4 |
| Mini 7 v 7 | 2 | 4 | 6 |
| Mini 5 v 5 | 2 | 4 | 6 |
5.2.6 In addition to the quality of pitch, the length of a game will impact upon the ability of a pitch to accommodate games at peak times. For example, Sunday afternoon league matches last about two hours. It is difficult to accommodate two games before daylight curtails games. Junior matches tend to be shorter and with morning kick off times allow games to be played consecutively. This will mean peak time capacity of an adult pitch will be shown as one game and junior as two or more.
Table 3 below shows the predicted supply and demand for grass football pitches in 2036. As mentioned at 4.5 this is based on the assessment of the last full season due to Covid-19 severely disrupting this season.
The table below is illustrative and shows how the required level of pitch provision / supply may be delivered in 2036 (subject to accessing the necessary funding). This will be periodically reviewed with some changes expected to be made to reflect changes in club structure and the distribution of pitches. The predicted supply of adult football pitches is identified to meet peak demand with all league games being played concurrently at peak times. This provides some excess capacity but will allow for variation in the configuration of sites to meet changing age groups participating in football at different clubs. It is important to have this flexibility to ensure clubs can meet community need.
* The provision of ATPs across the Borough will accommodate 12 games at peak time. Either one good quality or two standard quality 9 v 9 grass pitches will be required to fulfil anticipated demand.
** Mini 7 v 7 2036 demand will be met by ATPs being developed across the Borough and providing for 18 games at peak times.
Table 3 – Potential Grass Pitch Provision 2036
| Site | Managed by | 2020 pitches | 2036 pitches | 2036 peak time capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blessed Hugh | Non-RBC | Adult – 0 Youth – 1 Junior – 1 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 1 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 2 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Caversham Park | Non-RBC | Adult – 1 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 1 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 1 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Christchurch Meadows | RBC | Adult – 0 Youth – 2 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 2 Junior – 2 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 4 Junior – 4 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Cintra Park | RBC | Adult – 2 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 2 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 2 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Clayfield Copse | RBC | Adult – 2 Youth – 2 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 2 Youth – 2 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 2 Youth – 4 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Coley Recreation | RBC | Adult – 2 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 2 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 4 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Crescent Road | RBC | Adult – 0 Youth – 2 Junior – 5 Mini 7 – 1 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 2 Junior – 2 Mini 7 – 1 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 2 Junior – 4* Mini 7 – 4 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Emmer Green | RBC | Adult – 1 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 1 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 1 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Highdown School | Non-RBC | Adult – 0 Youth – 0 Junior – 1 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 1 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 2 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Ibis | Non-RBC | Adult – 0 Youth – 2 Junior – 2 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 2 Junior – 2 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 2 Junior – 2 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Kensington Road | RBC | Adult – 0 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 4 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 0 Junior – 3 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 0 Junior – 6 Mini 7 – ** Mini 5 – 0 |
| Kings Meadow | RBC | Adult – 0 Youth – 0 Junior – 6 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 0 Junior – 6 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 0 Junior – 12 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Mapledurham | RBC | Adult – 1 Youth – 4 Junior – 1 Mini 7 – 2 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 2 Youth – 3 Junior – 1 Mini 7 – 2 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 2 Youth – 6 Junior – 4 Mini 7 – 8 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Palmer Park | RBC | Adult – 5 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 3 Youth – 1 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 3 Youth – 2 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Prospect Park | RBC | Adult – 5 Youth – 0 Junior – 4 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 1 | Adult – 3 Youth – 1 Junior – 2 Mini 7 – 1 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 3 Youth – 2 Junior – 4 Mini 7 – 4 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Prospect School | Non-RBC | Adult – 0 Youth – 1 Junior – 1 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 1 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 2 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Rabsons Recreation | RBC | Adult – 4 Youth – 0 Junior – 1 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 2 Youth – 1 Junior – 2 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 2 Youth – 2 Junior – 4 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Reading Girls School | Non-RBC | Adult – 0 Youth – 3 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 3 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 6 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Reading School | Non-RBC | Adult – 0 Youth – 3 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 1 Youth – 3 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 6 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Scours Lane | Non-RBC | Adult – 1 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 1 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 1 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Whitley Wood | RBC | Adult – 2 Youth – 0 Junior – 1 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 1 Youth – 1 Junior – 1 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 1 Youth – 2 Junior – 2 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| University of Reading | Non-RBC | Adult – 1 Youth – 1 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 1 Youth – 1 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Victoria Rec | RBC | Adult – 0 Youth – 0 Junior – 3 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 0 Junior – 3 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 0 Youth – 0 Junior – 6 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Sub Total (RBC managed) | N/A | Adult – 24 Youth – 8 Junior – 21 Mini 7 – 7 Mini 5 – 1 | Adult – 16 Youth – 13 Junior – 22 Mini 7 – 4 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 16 Youth – 26 Junior – 46 Mini 7 – 16 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Sub Total (Non-RBC managed) | N/A | Adult – 6 Youth – 10 Junior – 4 Mini 7 – 4 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 5 Youth – 12 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 3 Youth – 22 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| Artificial Turf Pitches | N/A | Adult – 0 Youth – 0 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 3 Mini 5 – 12 | Adult – 3 Youth – 2 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 3 Mini 5 – 18 | Adult – 3 Youth – 2 Junior – 0 Mini 7 – 0 Mini 5 – 0 |
| TOTAL | N/A | Adult – 30 Youth – 18 Junior – 25 Mini 7 – 11 Mini 5 – 1 | Adult – 24 Youth – 26 Junior – 25 Mini 7 – 7 Mini 5 – 0 | Adult – 22 Youth – 50 Junior – 58 Mini 7 – 34 Mini 5 – 0 |
5.2.7 Ancillary Provision
Ancillary provision includes changing, toilet and social space. In Reading pavilions predominantly provide changing, toilets and showers for teams. Junior and youth football teams now tend to not use changing facilities. Whilst Covid-19 has prevented adult teams using ancillary accommodation teams are now starting to use them again. The Council are increasingly leasing ancillary provision to clubs. The Council recognises the value of clubs managing their own facilities to deliver more than just sporting benefits, for example providing a social community hub. Going forwards, the Council will work with clubs to provide long-term leases for long-term planning.
5.2.8 Action Plan
- Table 3 at 5.2.6 summarises what changes need to be made to increase and improve grass football pitch provision managed by RBC. This is identified in more detail in Appendix 2.
- The Council will continue to work with Clubs to enable access to social / ancillary facilities
- As some age groups currently play football on the incorrect sized pitch, the Council will work towards having the right number of correct sized pitches to meet demand.
5.3 Cricket
5.3.1 Cricket is traditionally played on grass pitches. There are also non-turf cricket pitches which require lower maintenance and provide a consistent flat surface. This review looks at both grass and non-turf cricket pitches.
5.3.2 Current Provision
Table 4 below illustrates the current cricket pitch provision in the Borough. However, there are currently only three RBC managed sites in the Borough which offer community use (in italics). In addition, Cintra Park is available to be brought back into use.
Table 4 – 2020 Cricket Pitch Provision
| Location | Pitch Type | Match per season capacity (standard quality) |
|---|---|---|
| Coley Recreation Ground | 1 non-turf | N/A |
| Kensington Park | 1 non-turf | N/A |
| Palmer Park | 1 non-turf | N/A |
| Cintra Park*2 | 6 grass | 24# |
| BBC Caversham*1 *2 | 6 grass | 24 |
| Ibis Club*1 | 8 grass 1 non-turf | 32# |
| University of Reading*1 *2 | 10 grass 1 non-turf | 40# |
| Leighton Park School*1 | 10 grass | 40 |
| Reading School*1 | 11 grass | 44 |
| Total | 51 grass 5 non-turf | 204 #Available for Community hire: 112 |
*1 Non-RBC managed and based on PPS 2019 data
*2 Not used due to covid / site management
Since the playing pitch provision was assessed, the BBC Caversham Cricket site has closed, and the University of Reading stopped bookings in late 2019. Leighton Park School boasts 10 Cricket Wickets but has a private agreement with Wokingham Cricket Club and is therefore not available for use by other clubs.
The current provision of pitches may be constraining demand. The Council would like to increase the number of cricket pitches for community use and will work with interested parties to allow them to access these facilities.
5.3.3 Quality of Pitches
Within the Borough there is wider considerations regarding ongoing maintenance of artificial cricket pitches, for example Kensington Park, as these have been attracting anti-social behaviour and misuse. Kensington Park cricket pitch is not currently in use. Coley Recreation Ground non-turf pitch is poor quality and needs replacing. Cintra Park suffers from unofficial use and consequent damage. Palmer Park’s non-turf pitch is of good quality.
5.3.4 Future Supply and Demand
To meet future demand there is a requirement for additional cricket pitch facilities and investment in upgrading and maintaining existing facilities. This will be achieved through accessing funding directly or with partner organisations.
5.3.5 Action Plan
- Bring Cintra Park cricket wickets back into use.
- If vandalism continues to Kensington Road artificial wicket, funding will be sought to replace this at nearby Prospect Park
- Work with Berkshire Cricket to identify future opportunities to increase and enhance facilities
- Work with Berkshire Cricket to bring disused wickets back into use, protect provisions and replace BBC Caversham wickets
- Work with England Cricket Board (ECB) to identify other potential sites that may be brought into use if demand increased.
5.4 Rugby
5.4.1 Rugby Union is played on grass pitches all levels, with most age groups using the same sized pitches.
5.4.2 Current Provision
There are currently four sites within the Borough with a total of six grass pitches. Only the University of Reading offers community use.
Table 5 – 2020 Rugby Pitch Provision
| Location | Number of pitches |
|---|---|
| University of Reading* | 3 |
| Prospect School* | 1 |
| Blessed Hugh Faringdon School* | 1 |
| Leighton Park School* | 1 |
*Non-RBC managed and based on PPS 2019 data
5.4.3 There are currently three Reading clubs playing just outside of Reading, all of whom have stated their preferred home ground is in Wokingham where they currently use. This highlights the need to work with neighbouring boroughs to ensure rugby pitches are protected within their local plans.
5.4.4 The clubs playing within Reading (University of Reading and Reading Renegades) use University of Reading or Reading Rugby Club pitches. The Renegades are unable to access a pitch within Reading.
5.4.5 Future Supply & Demand
Future match play demand can be met from current supply at University of Reading Sports Park. However, the Rugby Football Union have identified a gap in rugby pitch provision to the West of Reading.
5.4.6 Action Plan
- To protect existing provision
- Identify a site to the West of Reading which will be able to accommodate Rugby
- RBC will work with the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and existing clubs to establish training and playing facilities within Reading as this becomes required.
5.5 Hockey
5.5.1 Current Provision
Hockey is played on artificial turf pitches (ATPs). In Reading there are currently six hockey ATPs. Current demand is met by current supply. There is currently only one RBC managed ATP in the Borough, at Rivermead Leisure Centre, which offers community use. This is not currently used for hockey as demand is met elsewhere, football is the only sport accommodated on this pitch.
Table 6 – 2020 Hockey ATP Provision
| Location | Pitch type/number |
|---|---|
| University of Reading* | 1 |
| Highdown School* | 1 |
| Leighton Park School* | 1 |
| Ranikhet Primary School* | 1 |
| The Abbey School* | 1 |
| Rivermead Leisure Centre | 1 |
*Non-RBC managed and based on PPS 2019 data
5.5.2 Quality of Pitches
Three pitches are identified as being good quality; University of Reading, The Abbey and Rivermead Leisure Centre. The remaining three are deemed standard quality.
5.5.3 Future Supply and Demand
There is no predicted growth in demand. However, to ensure future demand is met it is important that hockey pitch provision is protected at University of Reading Sports Park. Sinking funds, from the income generated by the ATP, should be in place to provide replacement carpets / floodlights to maintain the quality of this ATP.
5.5.4 Action Plan
- Explore community use agreements and methods to extended hours of use at Highdown School, Abbey School and/or Leighton Park School as per Sport England guidance.
5.6 Artificial pitches
5.6.1 Artificial Turf Pitches (ATPs) provide a playing surface suitable for all weathers and for a variety of sports, commonly hockey and football. Their playing surface is more durable and can be in constant use with little impact on their condition. There are two main types of artificial turf surface:
1) A sand filled surface (ATP) which is suitable for hockey but cannot be used for competitive football.
2) Artificial grass filled with rubber crumb, which is suitable for most sports, but not hockey. These can be termed third-generation (3G) or fourth-generation (4G). 3G and 4G are treated as interchangeable within this strategy and identified as 3G.
5.6.2 Current Provision
There are currently 25 artificial pitches within the Borough.
Table 7 – 2020 ATP / 3G Pitch Provision
| Site | Pitch | Use | Number of pitches | Size of pitch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rabsons Rec | 3G Rubber Crumb | Football Adult 11 v 11 | 1 | 110×70 |
| JMA* | 3G Rubber Crumb | Football Adult 11 v 11 | 1 | 110×70 |
| Prospect School* | 3G Rubber Crumb | Football Youth 11 v 11 | 1 | 100×60 |
| Madjeski Stadium* | 3G Rubber Crumb (dome) | Football Junior 9 v 9 | 1 | 80×50 |
| Palmer Park | 3G Rubber Crumb | Training and recreational use | 3 | Small sided court (non-FA reg) |
| UoR* | 3G Rubber Crumb | Football Mini 7 v 7 | 1 | 60×40 |
| Prospect Park | Sand filled | Training and recreational use | 1 | Small sided court (non-FA reg) |
| Prospect Park | 3G Rubber Crumb | Training and recreational use | 5 | Small sided court (non-FA reg) |
| Ibis* | 3G Rubber Crumb | Football Mini 5 v 5 | 1 | 40×30 |
| UoR* | 3G Rubber Crumb | Football Mini 5 v 5 | 2 | 40×40 |
| UoR* | ATP 110×70 | Hockey | 1 | 110×70 |
| Highdown* | ATP 110 x 70 | Hockey | 1 | 110×70 |
| Leighton Park* | ATP 110 x 70 | Hockey | 1 | 110×70 |
| Ranikhet* | ATP 100 x 60 | Hockey | 1 | 100×60 |
| Rivermead | ATP 100 x 60 | Hockey | 1 | 100×60 |
| Abbey* | ATP 110 x 70 | Hockey | 1 | 110×70 |
| The Wren School* | 3G Rubber Crumb | Football Youth 11 v 11 | 1 | 100×60 |
| Cintra Park | ATP | Training and recreational use | 1 | Small sided court (non-FA reg) |
* Non-RBC managed and based on PPS 2019 data
5.6.3 The supply of small sided courts is important for supporting training and recreational activity however they are unable to accommodate matches and therefore outside the assessment of need within the PPS.
5.6.4 Hockey
The hockey demand is currently met by the supply of ATPs within the Borough. If England Hockey are successful in achieving their 100% increase in the number of people playing then an additional hockey ATP would be required to meet demand. With consideration given to the current demand and events over recent years, it seems this target is overly ambitious.
5.6.5 Football
To meet the current demand for football within the Borough, there needs to be seven 3G pitches. With only two FA approved 3G’s within the Borough, there is a current shortfall of five full size 3G pitches (based on FA’s training model 38 teams per full sized 3G).
The Local Football Facility Plan (LFFP) by the Football Foundation identifies opportunities to accurately target investment in football facilities across the Borough. This has prioritised the investment in five full sized ATPs reflecting those identified within this strategy.
Using the FA’s ratio [38 teams:1 full sized 3G pitch] the initial calculation to meet the future demand for football identified a need to supply nine full sized ATPs. The provision of small sided courts and youth 3G pitches across the Borough provide training facilities thus reducing the need for full sized artificial grass pitches. The shortfall is therefore five ATPs.
5.6.6 Action Plan
- To provide a distribution of ATPs to best meet need, the following areas have been identified as potential locations and reflect areas identified for investment by the Football Foundation:
– University of Reading / South Reading
– East Reading
– North of the River
– Scours Lane
– Conversion of Rivermead to 3G surface
5.7 Gaelic football, Australian rules football and lacrosse
5.7.1 Gaelic Football and Australian Rules Football are both played within the Borough by single clubs on Council pitches. The provision of one pitch for either sport will meet demand. This provision will be protected.
5.7.2 Lacrosse is currently played at Ibis/Prudential on a hockey pitch. The same club also play at Reading University. This provision will be protected.
6. Conclusions
6.1 Table 8 below identifies the current supply and demand for football and identifies the total number of pitches required for 2036. Over the following 15 years pitch supply will be amended to meet the follow years predicted demand. This will be undertaken in consultation with clubs and leagues.
Table 8 – Summary of total Football Pitch Supply, Demand and 2036 Provision
| Group | Current Pitch Supply | Peak Capacity | Current Demand Peak Sessions | Current Pitch Requirement | 2036 Predicted Demand (sessions) | Total Grass Pitches Needed 2036 | Total ATP Needed 2036 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult 11 v 11 | 32 | 32 | 17 | 17 | 22 | 21 | 3 |
| Youth 11 v 11 | 20 | 40 | 37 | 19 | 45 | 25 | 1 |
| Junior 9 v 9 | 26 | 52 | 51 | 26 | 58 | 22 | 3 |
| Mini 7 v 7 | 12 | 48 | 22 | 8 | 31 | 4 | 3 |
| Mini 5 v 5 | 4 | 16 | 18 | 5 | – | – | – |
| Full sized 3G/ATP (Included above) | 2 | 4 | 14 | 7 | 18 | – | 9 |
6.1.1 As shown at 5.2.6 the supply of adult football pitches is identified to meet peak demand with all league games being played concurrently at peak times. This provides some spare capacity to allow for flexibility in provision across the Borough. This also accommodates anticipated training requirements.
6.2 Table 9 below identifies the current supply and future need for non-football team sport pitches across Reading.
Table 9 – Summary Non-Football Pitches Supply, Demand and 2036 Provision
| Sport | Current Pitch Supply | Current Pitch Requirement | 2036 Predicted Demand Pitches | Total Grass Pitches Needed | Total ATP Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hockey | 6 | 6 | 7 | 0 | 7 |
| Cricket Wickets | 24* (112 sessions) | 32 (129 sessions) | 30 (118 sessions) | 30 | 0 |
| Rugby | 6 | 3 | 6 | 7*1 | 0 |
| Gaelic Football | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Australian Rules Football | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Lacrosse | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
*Excludes pitches unavailable for community use
*1 This may be reduced to 6 if access to an existing pitch can be agreed for Reading Renegades
6.3 Appendix 2 shows a site action plan and recommendations for all pitches across the Borough. This outlines priorities for the future to enable to the Council to work towards providing adequate provision up to 2036.
6.4 Key Issues
Within the PPS there are several key issues relating the current provision, allocation, maintenance and management of playing pitches in the Borough. These are summarised below:
6.4.1 Pitch Quality
The PPS recommends that generally pitches in the Borough need improvement. Since 2019 RBC have started investing in the pitch infrastructure within the Borough. The significant findings relating to pitch quality within the Borough are listed below:
- The one-pitch sites are the best quality in the Borough along with Mapledurham Playing Fields.
- There is variation in quality of pitches across the various provider sectors in the Borough
- The maintenance of the pitches needs to be more consistent
- Poor drainage and flooding of some pitches results in cancellation of bookings and plus pitches out of action for significant periods during the season.
- Palmer Park is a key facility and improvement will provide significant benefit as funding becomes available
- There is potential for the Borough to provide fewer, higher quality pitches
- Investment in the existing pitches at South Reading Leisure Centre (Rabsons) has been made to address the issues of poor drainage, which impacts on the capacity of the pitch facilities
- Investment in the sports turf at Mapledurham has been made to improve drainage and maintain or improve the carrying capacity of the site.
6.4.2 Car Parking
The majority of pitch sites have poor car parking – often this is limited on the site itself, which means that users have to park in surrounding residential roads.
6.4.3 Pitch Location
Existing pitches are not necessarily located in the optimum places for usage by local communities, although the majority of sites are well-located in respect of public transport, often sited adjacent to key bus routes and stops.
6.4.4 Pitch Booking/Allocation
- The allocation of pitches is carried out by the leagues
- Moving forwards there will be a need to move clubs ‘home’ locations to meet the proposed 2036 pitch provision model. The re-allocation of pitches is required to ensure adequate provision is maintained. The development of facilities will be dependent on available funding and changing demand over the years leading to 2036.
7. Contribution to strategic aims
7.1 Reading Borough Council’s vision is: ‘To help Reading realise its potential – and to ensure that everyone who lives and works here can share the benefits of its success.’
7.2 The recommendations and action plans within this report contribute to the following Corporate Plan Themes:
Healthy environment
As mentioned at 5.2.3 increasing the total area of grass pitches to meet the Fields in Trust standard is not desirable, given the increasing demand for open space and the response to Climate Change (The Reading Climate Emergency Strategy 2020-25), for example the increased planting of trees to increase canopy cover to 25% by 2030 (RBC Tree Strategy, 2021). The recommendations within this report concentrate on the improvement in quality (and consequent carrying capacity) of pitches and the installation of ATPs which have a significantly higher usage rate minimising the amount of green space used for pitches allowing land to be used for other activities.
Thriving Communities
The actions and recommendations within this report contribute to improving and promoting access to physical activity. Encouraging participation in physical activity contributes towards a thriving community through tackling the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic by improving mental health, reducing social isolation and improving physical health. Sports clubs using many of the facilities provide very valuable local physical and social activity which reduces ASB and pathways to further constructive activity.
Inclusive economy
Clubs with leases and those who complete pitch bookings provide an income to fund the upkeep and maintenance of pitches. The future installation of ATPs contributes to the development of affordable modern sports facilities which promotes Reading as a destination for physical activity supporting community organisations and activity providing both volunteering and some paid coaching opportunities locally.
7.3 Full details of the Council’s Corporate Plan are available on the website and include information on the projects which will deliver these priorities.
7.4 Reading Borough Local Plan, 2019
Reading’s Local Plan sets out a clear vision which includes providing access to adequate facilities and open green space to enable residents to have what they need to live a full and active life. The Local Plan envisages Reading becoming a desirable place for leisure and recreational activities. The objectives within the Local Plan demonstrate the importance of meeting residents’ needs through providing access to sport and recreation facilities, including sports pitches.
The Local Plan illustrates that future developments within the Borough need to be balanced against the adequate provision of sports and play space. The Local Plan states three key regulations regarding future developments and the retention / provision of sports facilities and pitches:
- EN8, states that any development should not result in the loss of or jeopardise use and enjoyment of undesignated open space. Development may be permitted where it is clearly demonstrated that replacement of open space, of a similar standard and function, can be provided at an accessible location close by, or that improvements to recreational facilities on remaining open space can be provided to a level sufficient to outweigh the loss of the open space. The quality of existing open space should not be eroded by insensitive development on adjoining land.
- OU1, states that sports pitches and playing fields, should only be developed where: a) an assessment clearly shows the area to be surplus to requirements; or b) the loss would be replaced by equivalent or better provision in terms of quantity and quality in a suitable location; or c) the development is for alternative sports and recreational provision, the needs for which clearly outweigh the loss.
- RL6, states that developments that would result in the loss of a leisure facility will not be permitted unless it can be clearly demonstrated that: a. There is no need for this type of facility in this area; or b. The function of the facility can be adequately fulfilled by an existing facility, or a facility proposed as part of the development, where that facility would be at least as accessible to the same catchment; or 101 Centres where there are recognised deprivation issues are Coronation Square, Dee Park, Whitley and Whitley Wood c. Unless the site is a sports or recreation facility, the impacts on amenity of residents or on crime and security of retaining the facility could not be dealt with through other measures, and would be so severe as to outweigh the benefits to the wider community of retaining the facility.
7.5 Reading Open Space Strategy, 2007 (updated 2018)
The Open Space Strategy set out the aims and approaches that the Council have adopted to protect the Borough’s open spaces. The protection of publicly accessible recreational open space is considered to be of great importance. This is useable space which provides a resource for sport, leisure and informal recreation.
Public open space helps to achieve various Council aims including improving the quality of life for residents, adapting to climate change and enhancing the natural environment to contribute to economic success. This ensures that Reading is healthy and enhances biodiversity.
The Open Space Strategy outlines the Council’s principle aims. One of which is to ensure that there is no net loss of recreational public open space. It acknowledges that open space makes an important contribution to the health and well-being of communities. It also acknowledges that quality of public open space varies throughout the Borough.
7.6 Health and Wellbeing Strategy, 2021-2030
The Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2021-2030 has five priorities:
Priority 1: Reduce the differences in health between different groups of people
Priority 2: Support individuals at high risk of bad health outcomes to live healthy lives Priority 3: Help families and children in early years
Priority 4: Promote good mental health and wellbeing for all children and young people
Priority 5: Promote good mental health and wellbeing for all adults
The Health and Wellbeing Strategy acknowledges that physical activity is a contributing factor to Children and Young People’s mental and physical health and highlights the importance of improving access to physical activity. The strategy notes that due to the pandemic there is increased importance on participation in physical activity for the prevention of ill-health and the need to break down barriers to accessing physical activity.
8. Environmental and climate implications
8.1 The overall impact of the recommendations / actions within this report on the environment and climate is low.
8.2 As previously mentioned at 5.2.3, The Reading Climate Emergency Strategy 2020-25 highlights the need for increased canopy cover to 25% by 2030 (RBC Tree Strategy, 2021). The proposals within this report consider this, maximise use of space minimising pressure on open space creating opportunities for further mitigation of of the impacts of climate change.
8.3 Through the rearrangement of sports pitches in the future including leasing of ‘home’ grounds to local clubs and a geographical spread of ATP’s close to the communities they serve will lessen the need to travel.
8.4 The installation of several ATPs between now and 2036 will have a low positive impact on the biodiversity within the Borough. Whilst an artificial pitch surface does not provide a habitat, they will reduce the use of grass pitches thus freeing greenspace for phase one habitats supporting implementation of Reading’s tree Strategy and Biodiversity Action Plan, 2021).
9. Community engagement and information
9.1 Section 138 of the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007 places a duty on local authorities to involve local representatives when carrying out “any of its functions” by providing information, consulting or “involving in another way”.
9.2 Consultation with the community and local clubs took place to produce this report and the PPS in 2019. The Council has a strong working relationship with local leagues and clubs. This includes lease and site management agreements at various sites across the Borough.
9.3 The Council will continue to engage with principal partners, leagues and clubs (those with and without lease agreements) from April – June to ensure provision for the following season best meets need. In order to accommodate all needs clubs will need to be flexible to ensure provision can be supplied in an effective way.
10. Equality impact assessment (EIA)
10.1 Under the Equality Act 2010, Section 149, a public authority must, in the exercise of its functions, have due regard to the need to—
- eliminate discrimination, harassment, victimisation and any other conduct that is prohibited by or under this Act;
- advance equality of opportunity between persons who share a relevant protected characteristic and persons who do not share it;
- foster good relations between persons who share a relevant protected characteristic and persons who do not share it.
10.2 An EIA is not required for the recommendations set out in this report. Traditionally, grass pitches have supporting infrastructure of limited size and quality and often struggle to accommodate mixed genders and have limited accessible facilities. By their nature, grass pitches have a limited ability to meet the needs of disabled people.
10.3 New facilities will be subject to further assessment at the design stage of proposed development, but improvements in accessibility and support infrastructure will facilitate use by a growing range of users. This coupled with the redevelopment of indoor leisure facilities will provide a significant improvement in facilities provide to all communities.
10.4 Some of the sports addressed within this strategy have traditionally been played by men (Rugby, Football, Australian Rules Football, Gaelic Football and Cricket). However, whilst historically these sports have been male dominated this is now changing and provision between now and 2036 is being made to promote use by both males and females.
11. Legal implications
11.1 Section 19 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 confers on local authorities’ general powers to provide recreational facilities, including) outdoor facilities consisting of pitches for team games, Further, the Local Government Act 2000 provides local authorities with the discretionary power to promote or improve the economic, social or environmental wellbeing of their area. The provision of the playing pitches falls within the above statutory provisions.
12. Financial implications
12.2 The majority of RBC owned / managed sites are leased to third-party groups. It is expected that joint funding applications will be made to external funders for required improvements in ancillary facilities.
12.3 The periodic review of pitches and accompanying ancillary provision may provide opportunity for the rationalisation of changing facilities, at Victoria Recreation Ground for example, which would provide future savings. If in future assessments of provision any support infrastructure is found to be redundant there will be capital costs associated with its removal.
12.4 The development of ATPs will require external funding. As the proposals for the development of ATPs align to the Football Foundations’ LFFP it is likely funding will come from the Football Association and Capital Grant Funding. Once ATPs are developed all operating costs, including sink funding for refurbishment, will be covered by the income generated through ATP use.
12.5 s106 funding may be secured in relation to the re-provision of lost football facilities as result of the proposed development. Additionally, funding applications will be made as required to CIL and developer contributions will be sought to meet demand within localities of new developments, predominantly for match funding to support application to funding bodies.
13. Background papers
11.1 Playing Pitch Strategy, 2019
11.2 Reading Local Football Facilities Plan (LFFP)
Appendix 1 – Pitch provision 2020/21
| Site name | Pitch provision | Number of pitches | Pitch surface | Additional notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cintra Recreation Ground | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 2 | Turf | N/A |
| Cintra Recreation Ground | Football [Training and recreational use] | 1 | ATP | N/A |
| Cintra Recreation Ground | Cricket | 6 [1 square] | Turf | Not currently in use |
| Clayfield Copse | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 2 | Turf | N/A |
| Clayfield Copse | Football [Youth 11 v 11] | 2 | Turf | N/A |
| Coley Recreation Ground | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 2 | Turf | N/A |
| Coley Recreation Ground | Cricket | 1 | Non-turf | N/A |
| Emmer Green | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Mapledurham Playing Fields | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 1 | Turf | Current changes to Mapledurham Playing Fields during school developments on site |
| Mapledurham Playing Fields | Football [Youth 11 v 11] | 4 | Turf | Current changes to Mapledurham Playing Fields during school developments on site |
| Mapledurham Playing Fields | Football [Junior 9 v 9] | 1 | Turf | Current changes to Mapledurham Playing Fields during school developments on site |
| Mapledurham Playing Fields | Football [Mini 7 v 7] | 2 | Turf | Current changes to Mapledurham Playing Fields during school developments on site |
| Palmer Park | Football [Adult 11 v11] | 1 | Stadia Pitch (turf) | Not currently in use |
| Palmer Park | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 4 | Turf | N/A |
| Palmer Park | Football [Training and recreational] | 3 | 3G, Rubber Crumb | N/A |
| Palmer Park | Cricket | 1 | Non-turf | N/A |
| Prospect Park | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 5 | Turf | N/A |
| Prospect Park | Football [Junior 9 v 9] | 4 | Turf | N/A |
| Prospect Park | Football [Mini 5 v 5] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Prospect Park | Football [Training and recreational use] | 5 | 3G, Rubber Crumb | N/A |
| Prospect Park | Football [Training and recreational] | 1 | Sand | N/A |
| Ibis Club* | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 3 | Turf | N/A |
| Ibis Club* | Football [Youth 11 v 11] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Ibis Club* | Football [Junior 9 v 9] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Ibis Club* | Football [Mini 7 v 7] | 4 | Turf | N/A |
| Ibis Club* | Football [Mini 5 v 5] | 1 | 3G Rubber Crumb | N/A |
| Ibis Club* | Cricket | 8 [1 square] | Turf | N/A |
| Ibis Club* | Cricket | 1 | Non-Turf | N/A |
| Rabsons Recreation Ground / SRLC | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 4 | Turf | N/A |
| Rabsons Recreation Ground / SRLC | Football [Junior 9 v 9] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Rabsons Recreation Ground / SRLC | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 1 | 3G Rubber Crumb [FA Approved] | N/A |
| Whitley Wood Rec | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 2 | Turf | N/A |
| Whitley Wood Rec | Football [Junior 9 v 9] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Madjeski Stadium* | Football [Junior 9 v 9] | 1 | 3G Indoor Dome | N/A |
| John Madjeski Academy* | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 1 | 3G Rubber Crumb [FA Approved] | N/A |
| UoR* | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| UoR* | Football [Youth 11 v 11] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| UoR* | Football [Mini 5 v 5] | 2 | 3G Rubber Crumb | N/A |
| UoR* | Football [Mini 7 v 7] | 1 | 3G Rubber Crumb | N/A |
| UoR* | Cricket | 10 [1 square] | Turf | N/A |
| UoR* | Cricket | 1 | Non-turf | N/A |
| UoR* | Rugby [Adult] | 3 | Turf | N/A |
| UoR* | Hockey [110×70] | 1 | ATP | N/A |
| Christchurch Meadows | Football [Youth 11 v 11] | 2 | Turf | N/A |
| Victoria Rec | Football [Junior 9 v 9] | 3 | Turf | N/A |
| Caversham Park* | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Caversham Park* | Cricket | 6 [1 square] | Turf | Not currently in use |
| Highdown School* | Football [Junior 9 v 9] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Highdown School* | Hockey [110×70] | 1 | ATP | N/A |
| Kings Meadow | Football [Junior9 v9] | 6 | Turf | Plus Australian Rules Football and Gaelic Football Pitches |
| Reading College / UTC | Football [Junior 9 v 9] | 5 | Turf | N/A |
| Reading College / UTC | Football [Mini 7 v 7] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Kensington Road Recreation Ground | Football [Mini 7 v 7] | 4 | Turf | N/A |
| Kensington Road Recreation Ground | Cricket | 1 | Non-Turf | N/A |
| Prospect School* | Football [Youth 11 v 11] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Prospect School* | Football [Junior 9 v 9] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Prospect School* | Football [Youth 11 v 11] | 1 | 3G Rubber Crumb | N/A |
| Prospect School* | Rugby | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Reading School* | Football [Youth 11 v 11] | 3 | Turf | N/A |
| Reading School* | Cricket | 11 [1 square] | Turf | N/A |
| Reading Girls School* | Football [Youth 11 v 11] | 3 | Turf | N/A |
| Blessed Hugh Farringdon School* | Football [Youth 11 v 11] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Blessed Hugh Farringdon School* | Football [Junior 9 v 9] | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Blessed Hugh Farringdon School* | Rugby | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Leighton Park School* | Rugby | 1 | Turf | N/A |
| Leighton Park School* | Hockey [110×70] | 1 | ATP | N/A |
| Leighton Park School* | Cricket | 10 [1 square] | Turf | N/A |
| Ranikhet Primary School* | Hockey [100×60] | 1 | ATP | N/A |
| Rivermead Leisure Centre | Hockey [100×60] | 1 | ATP | N/A |
| The Abbey School* | Hockey [110×70] | 1 | ATP | N/A |
| Scours Lane | Football [Adult 11 v 11] | 1 | Stadia Pitch | N/A |
| The Wren School | Football Youth 11 v 11 | 1 | 3G Rubber Crumb | N/A |
Appendix 2 – Recommended site action plans 2019-2036
| Site name/ownership | Strategy | Action 2019 | Priority | Cost | 2021 update |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cintra Recreation Ground (secured) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Cintra Recreation Ground (secured) | Enhance | Invest in cricket facilities to improve quality of pitches and pavilion and increase capacity of use on the cricket pitches. Move youth U13’s 11v11 to correct size pitches. | 1 | Medium | Ongoing discussions with National Governing Body (NGB), local Cricket club and University of Reading regarding the reinstatement of Cricket. Bring cricket back and increase number of wickets, increasing capacity at Cintra Park. Consult with FA and Berkshire Youth Development League to agree provision of correctly sized pitches for their use. |
| Clayfield Copse (secured) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Clayfield Copse (secured) | Enhance | Youth 11 v 11 pitches (2) increase quality from Standard to Good additional 2 match equivalent sessions. Poor facility and club keen to update. There is a need to refurbish changing facilities. Notices to reduce dog waste being left on pitches | 1 1 | Medium High | FA funding secured for pitch improvements and works are ongoing Discussions taking place between the Council and AFC Caversham regarding lease negotiations. Refurbishment of facilities forms part of negotiation / future plan. Periodic campaigns will be undertaken as the problem reoccurs. |
| Coley Recreation Ground (secured) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Coley Recreation Ground (secured) | Enhance | Need to improve changing rooms on site currently poor quality. | 3 | Medium | FA represented visited site and deemed changing facilities as appropriate. |
| Coley Recreation Ground (secured) | Provide | Ensure games are played on correct sized pitches. The non-turf cricket pitch should be replaced or repaired and Last Man Stands promoted. | 2 1 | Low Medium | Consult with FA and Berkshire Youth Development League to agree provision of correctly sized pitches for their use. Funding will be sought to replace the cricket pitch at Coley Rec. |
| Emmer Green (secured) | Protect | This site when built should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | Liaise with home teams with aim to establish lease. The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Mapledurham Playing Fields (secured) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Mapledurham Playing Fields (secured) | Provide | There is a need to provide the correct size football pitches for continued use by Caversham Trent FC if the Heights School is built and for sustainable use by the heights school. See requirements under Football scenarios. | 1 | High | Investment in the sports turf at Mapledurham has been made to improve drainage and maintain / improve carrying capacity of site. Pitches will be provided in an appropriate size to the standard being played. |
| Palmer Park (secured) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Palmer Park (secured) | Enhance | Configure site to ensure games are played on correct sized pitches Need to ensure sink fund is in place to replace carpets and floodlights on 3G rubber crumb pitches and non-turf cricket pitch. | 1 1 | Low Medium | Stadia pitch no longer in use, conflicting use with other stadia activity and non-conformance with FA regulations. There are four adult pitches here, which the youth league is not currently hiring. Consult with FA and Berkshire Youth Development League to agree provision of correctly sized pitches for their use. Maintenance of pitches in the long-term is being secured through the leisure contract. |
| Palmer Park (secured) | Provide | Investigate if it is viable to reconfigure 3G pitches to meet central venue needs if required in the future and to be on the FA 3G Pitch Register and maintain its registration. | 1 | Medium | To be investigated with new leisure provider |
| Prospect Park (secured) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. Investigate if it is viable to reconfigure 3G pitches to meet central venue needs and to be on the FA 3G Pitch Register and maintain its registration. | 1 1 | Low Medium | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. A new family hub to be developed on site. Sufficient changing to accommodate three adult pitches will be maintained. |
| Prospect Park (secured) | Enhance | Need to ensure sink fund is in place to replace carpets and floodlights on 3G pitches. Youth 11 v 11 (2) pitches – increase quality from Standard to Good additional 2 match equivalent sessions using off site developer contribution’s or CIL. Changing rooms are in need of refurbishing. | 2 1 1 – 3 | Medium Low Medium | Increasing demand for 9 v 9 facilitated at Prospect Park reduces need for increased youth 11 v 11 provision. Identified demand indicated that standard quality pitch meets need. Building works due to be undertaken as family hub is developed. Condition of facilities to be reviewed at this time. |
| Ibis Club (secured) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. Site recently sold. Pitch reprovision to be sought if lost. |
| Ibis Club (secured) | Enhance | Need to ensure sink fund is in place to replace carpets and floodlights on 3G pitches. | 1 3 | Low Low | N/A |
| Ibis Club (secured) | Provide | Need to provide a non-turf practise net and or a mobile cage. | 3 | Low | N/A |
| Rabson Recreation Ground / South Reading Leisure Centre (Academy Sport Leisure Centre) (secured) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. Ensure continual FA Registration for 3G pitch | 1 1 | Low Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. FA registration is ongoing |
| Rabson Recreation Ground / South Reading Leisure Centre (Academy Sport Leisure Centre) (secured) | Enhance | Need to ensure sink fund is in place to replace carpets and floodlights on 3G pitches. Need to seek funding to refurbish changing facilities | 2 2 | Medium Medium | This will form part of wider considerations with the new development on site. |
| Rabson Recreation Ground / South Reading Leisure Centre (Academy Sport Leisure Centre) (secured) | Provide | Provide teaching and other enhancements from Section 106 funding allocated to South Reading Leisure Centre and consider an additional 3G pitch. | 2 | High | N/A |
| Whitley Wood (secured) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Whitley Wood (secured) | Enhance | Need to reduce number of youth 11 v 11 overplaying adult pitches. Consider pitches under FA Improvement Programme. | 2 | Low | Consult with FA and club to agree provision of correctly sized pitches for their use. |
| Whitley Wood (secured) | Provide | Need to refurbish or replace existing changing facility | 3 | High | Funding secured and South Reading FC involved in early stages. |
| Madejski Stadium (unsecured use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. This provision is to be lost as part of redevelopment of Reading FC training facilities. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. Ensure replacement facilities are provided. |
| JMA Academy (unsecured) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. Ensure continual FA Registration for 3G pitch Ensure Community use agreement is in place to protect community use currently and in the future. | 1 1 1 | Low Low low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| JMA Academy (unsecured) | Enhance | Need to ensure sink fund is in place to replace carpets and floodlights on 3G pitches. | 1 | Medium | N/A |
| University of Reading Sports Park (unsecured use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. Need for a formal community use agreement to be put in place to safeguard current and future use by Sports Clubs and safeguard hockey club training, football, rugby and cricket. | 1 1 | Low Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| University of Reading Sports Park (unsecured use) | Enhance | Need to ensure sink fund is in place to replace carpets and floodlights on 3G pitches and hockey ATP. | 1 3 | Medium Low | N/A |
| University of Reading Sports Park (unsecured use) | Provide | Possibly provide access to rugby pitches if required by a community rugby sports club in the future. | 3 | Low | N/A |
| Christchurch Meadows (secured use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Christchurch Meadows (secured use) | Provide | Bring this site back into use along with existing changing rooms. Youth 11 v 11 (1) pitch – Standard quality 2 match equivalent sessions. 2 adult pitches reconfigured to youth 11 v 11 (Provide ‘Standard’ quality 4 match equivalent sessions) | 3 3 | Low Low | Site brought back into use for 2019/20 season for youth football. Seek a football club who wish to use pavilion and pitches as a home venue. |
| Victoria Recreation Ground (secured use). Leased to Reading Borough Council by Tilehurst Poor Charity | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Victoria Recreation Ground (secured use). Leased to Reading Borough Council by Tilehurst Poor Charity | Enhance | Changing rooms require refurbishing | 3 | Low | Youth football on site, therefore no requirement for ancillary accommodation. Storage and toilets should be upgraded and life-expired changing facilities removed. |
| Victoria Recreation Ground (secured use). Leased to Reading Borough Council by Tilehurst Poor Charity | Provide | Bring lapsed pitches back into use: Youth 11 v 11 (1) pitch – Standard quality 1 match equivalent sessions. | 3 | Low | Junior team based on site, site used to develop girls’ football. Secure tenure and use as club home site. |
| Caversham Pak (unsecured use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. If sports pitches are not re-provided on site, replacement provision will be required. |
| Caversham Pak (unsecured use, closed site) | Provide | Ensure continued provision of the football pitch and cricket square. Discuss with the owners how best to open up cricket for Saturday and Sunday Play and reconfigure the adult football pitch for youth 11 v 11 play. | 2 | Low | N/A |
| Highdown School (unsecured use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. Need for a formal community use agreement to be put in place to safeguard current and future use by Sports Clubs and safeguard hockey club training. | 1 1 | Low Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. Community use continues however formal agreement to protect this use is still to be agreed. |
| Highdown School (unsecured use) | Enhance | Need to ensure sink fund is in place to replace carpets on hockey ATP. | 1 | Medium | N/A |
| Kings Meadow (secured use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Kings Meadow (secured use) | Provide | Raise quality from ‘standard’ quality to ‘good’ quality to raise the capacity. Seek FA funding for improvements. | 2 | Medium | Pitch improvements to take place as part of the reinstatement of the park once current onsite contractor works have completed. Proximity to the Thames and high-water table limit ability to raise quality of pitch. In time additional capacity will need to be delivered through development of ATPs across the Borough. |
| Crescent Road (unsecured use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. Need for a formal community use agreement to be put in place to safeguard current and future use by Sports Clubs | 1 1 | Low Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. Site managed by RBC education, who are maintaining dialogue between schools and community. Look to intensify use. |
| Crescent Road (unsecured use) | Provide | Raise quality from ‘standard’ quality to ‘good’ quality the capacity. | 2 | Medium | A more detailed understanding of demand from adjacent schools to be determined prior to planning pitch quality improvements. |
| Kensington Road Recreation Ground (secured) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Kensington Road Recreation Ground (secured) | Enhance | Need to reduce number of youth 11 v 11 and junior 9 v 9 overplaying adult pitches. Need to improve grass coverage and stop dog fouling | 1 1 | Low Low | Junior pitches onsite support girls’ football development league. Ongoing discussions with community group regarding the renovation of the pavilion. Lower / suspended use throughout 2020/21 grass has re-established. Periodic campaigns will be undertaken as the problem reoccurs. |
| Kensington Road Recreation Ground (secured) | Provide | Better improved use of the non-turf cricket pitch e.g. introduce Last Man Stands | 2 | Low | If vandalism continues to Kensington Road artificial wicket, funding will be sought to replace this at nearby Prospect Park. |
| Prospect School (education – unsecured use, unavailable for use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. Schools should not use 3G rubber crumb pitches for school matches unless they are on the FA Register. | 1 1 | Low Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. Encourage school to follow FA advice on use of pitches. |
| Prospect School (education – unsecured use, unavailable for use) | Enhance | Need to ensure sink fund is in place to replace carpets and floodlights on 3G pitches. | 1 | Medium | N/A |
| Reading School (unsecured use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. The site requires a formal community use agreement to be put in place | 1 1 | Low Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Reading Girls School (unsecured use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. The site requires a formal community use agreement to be put in place | 1 1 | Low Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Blessed Hugh Faringdon (unsecured use) | Provide | The changing rooms at this site are considered as poor quality. | |||
| Blessed Hugh Faringdon (unsecured use, unavailable for use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. Need to ensure community use agreement for use by Wokingham Cricket Club | 1 1 | Low Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Blessed Hugh Faringdon (unsecured use, unavailable for use) | Enhance | Need to ensure sink fund is in place to replace carpets and floodlights on the hockey ATP. | 1 | Medium | N/A |
| Leighton Park School (unsecured use, unavailable for use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Leighton Park School (unsecured use, unavailable for use) | Enhance | Need to ensure sink fund is in place to replace carpets and floodlights on the hockey ATP. | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Leighton Park School (unsecured use, unavailable for use) | Provide | This site could be used as an overflow training pitch site if hockey membership were to outgrow the existing community hockey club pitch at the University of Reading Sports Park. | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Ranikhet Primary School (unsecured use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Ranikhet Primary School (unsecured use) | Enhance | Need to ensure sink fund is in place to replace carpets and floodlights on the hockey ATP. | 1 | Medium | Maintenance of pitches in the long-term is being secured through the leisure contract. |
| Ranikhet Primary School (unsecured use) | Provide | If there is funding to change the carpet at this site to 3G rubber crumb. Ensure that England Hockey and Sport England are consulted well in advance and agree with the change. | 2 | Medium | N/A |
| Rivermead Leisure Centre (secured use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Rivermead Leisure Centre (secured use) | Enhance | Need to ensure sink fund is in place to replace carpets and floodlights on the hockey ATP | 3 | Low | N/A |
| Rivermead Leisure Centre (secured use) | Provide | This site could provide additional competitive match play slots on a Saturday and Sunday if membership of Phoenix Ranelagh Hockey Club increases in the future. There will need to be discussions with the school and if the discussions were fruitful then a community use agreement would be required. | 3 | Low | N/A |
| The Abbey School (unsecured use) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. | 1 | Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| The Abbey School (unsecured use) | Provide | The ground needs to be kept at the level of facilities required for Step 5 and Step 6 Football League requirements. | 1 | Medium | Currently leased to Reading Town FC. The club are committed to and are undertaking improvements to the pitch. |
| Scours Lane (secured) | Protect | This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. This site is identified as a development site in the emerging new Reading Local Plan. Mitigation costs should be provided for the loss of this disused site towards improvements to increase capacity and bring youth 11 v 11 pitches back into use or improvements to ancillary facilities at Victoria Recreation Ground which is nearby. Alternatively owing to limitations on parking and insecurity of the site, Meadway Park should also be highlighted for potential investment and additional pitches. | 1 1 | Low Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. There is not currently demand for sports facility provision here. However, this area of open space should be protected for informal sporting and recreational use. |
| Downing Roads playing fields | Protect | This site has the potential to provide for cricket and football pitches in the future. This site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan. Meadway Park should also be highlighted for potential investment to provide cricket and football pitches. | 1 1 | Low Low | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. |
| Downing Roads playing fields | Provide | Meadway Park should be highlighted for potential investment and additional pitches for cricket and football. The site should be considered as an investment site for funding from the loss of pitches at Park Lane Primary School, Downing Road. | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Meadway Park | Protect | The playing fields on this old school site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. If agreement is reached to provide a 3G rubber crumb pitch on this site or maintain natural turf grass pitches a formal community use agreement will be required as will registration of the pitch on the FA 3G pitch register and its continued registration. | N/A | N/A | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. 3G pitch has been built catering for youth football. |
| The Wren School | Protect | The playing fields on this old school site should be protected as a playing field site in the Local Plan unless better or equivalent facilities are provided. If agreement is reached to provide a 3G rubber crumb pitch on this site or maintain natural turf grass pitches a formal community use agreement will be required as will registration of the pitch on the FA 3G pitch register and its continued registration. | N/A | N/A | The adopted Local Plan protects all sports pitches within the Borough. 3G pitch has been built catering for youth football |
Last updated on 08/04/2022
Playing pitch strategy