Local sports clubs across West Cumbria are being encouraged to work together to bid for a share of millions of pounds in new government funding to upgrade grassroots sports facilities.
The funding forms part of a £400 million UK-wide commitment to grassroots sport facilities announced in the June 2025 Spending Review. Nearly 1,000 projects across the UK have already benefited, with investment delivering new and refurbished all-weather pitches, floodlighting, changing pavilions and community sports hubs.
A further £85 million will be available in 2026/27, with £68.35 million allocated to England and delivered through the Football Foundation. Applications in England are now open on an ongoing basis.
The investment is targeted at communities with the greatest need. At least 50 per cent of funding is directed to the 30 per cent most deprived communities, with projects expected to improve access to sport for women and girls, disabled people and young people. At least 40 per cent of funded projects must offer multi-sport provision, supporting activities such as rugby and cricket alongside football.
Josh MacAlister, MP for Whitehaven and Workington, said the funding represented a major opportunity for West Cumbria – but stressed that collaboration between clubs would be key to success.
“Grassroots sport is one of the best investments we can make in our communities – for young people, for physical and mental health, and for bringing people together,” he said.
“What funders are really keen to see are strong, well-prepared bids that show partnership working and wide community benefit. In West Cumbria, we have brilliant clubs doing fantastic work, and by working together – across different sports and communities – we can put forward bids that stand a much stronger chance of success.”
Josh has been bringing local sports clubs together to help them prepare for bids, share ideas and explore joint applications, including projects that deliver shared facilities or co-ordinated multi-sport provision.
He also confirmed he will be meeting with Cumberland Council and the Football Foundation to discuss how local partners can work together to ensure West Cumbria is well placed to benefit from the funding.
“I’m very happy to support local clubs with their bids – whether that’s helping make connections, raising issues with funders, or strengthening the case for investment locally,” he added.
“This is about making sure West Cumbria gets its fair share and that our facilities are fit for the future.”
Projects eligible for funding include new or refurbished artificial grass pitches, floodlighting to extend opening hours, upgraded changing facilities to support women’s and girls’ participation, and facilities that can be used by schools, health initiatives and the wider community.
Clubs, community groups and schools can apply through the Football Foundation. Further guidance is available at footballfoundation.org.uk.
Josh MacAlister MP 