Nearly £1 million secured to boost sport and physical activity
Castle Point is set to benefit from a £999,635 share of a major Sport England investment supporting life-changing sport and physical activity initiatives across Canvey Island, Benfleet, Hadleigh and Thundersley.
The funding is a milestone moment delivering a long-term investment designed to:
- increase physical activity
- reduce physical inactivity
- give children and young people positive experiences of being active
- tackle local inequalities impacting access to sport and movement
Sport England launched this major funding initiative, which will see £250 million of National Lottery and Exchequer funding invested in more than 90 new places across England until 2028.
Castle Point joins Harlow and Thurrock as new investment locations, building on the successful Essex Local Delivery Pilot work already taking place.
In Castle Point, this will mean fresh opportunities to break down the everyday barriers that prevent residents from moving more and living well. Whether it’s supporting older adults to stay active, helping young people access sports safely and affordably or transforming local green spaces into movement-friendly environments. This funding puts Castle Point residents at the heart of decision-making.
Initiatives will be co-designed with the local community and developed in response to specific needs. Work has already begun across Castle Point to identify local needs.
Cllr Tom Gibson, Portfolio Holder for Special Projects & Assets at Castle Point Borough Council said:
“We’re delighted that Castle Point has been chosen to receive nearly £1 million in Sport England funding. It’s a vital step toward unlocking access to sport and physical activity.
“We know that movement builds stronger, healthier, more connected communities and this funding is the catalyst we’ve been waiting for."
Lisa Dodd-Mayne, Executive Director of Place at Sport England said:
"Our recent investment into Essex reflects our continued commitment to ensure that interventions are rooted in the unique needs, cultures and priorities of local communities.
“Targeted investment in areas of greatest need can unlock participation and reduce health inequalities.
“The 3 new places in Essex, and the 3 already well on the journey, will be shining examples of how these types of approaches can drive real change locally to help create a more active, healthier nation."
Dr William Bird, Chair of Active Essex, said: "The success of the LDP has meant that Essex has received further funding to support three new areas.
“What we’ve learnt alongside our partners, is that we must create the conditions for our communities to thrive, and I have no doubt that this further investment will be capitalised on by all places in Greater Essex.
“Utilising learnings across the system from health and education, to transport and recreation, we all have the ability to co-create physical activity opportunities for everyone."
Dr Sophia Morris, System Clinical Lead for Inequalities, Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System said: “This investment in sport and physical activity will help provide safe and accessible opportunities to be active, particularly for groups who face barriers to exercise.
“Movement is so important for our overall health and wellbeing, and the benefits extend beyond physical fitness and health benefits. Regularly taking part in sport and physical activity reduces anxiety and depression, builds social connections, and helps create more resilient communities too."