Stoke-on-trent sport and physical activity strategy 2009-2016

<strong>Stoke</strong> Recreation CentreThe facility has 3 courts and it lies between Fenton Manor and ThistleyHough. The facility is aging and does not meet modern sports hall standards(e.g. clear height). It is therefore proposed to close this centre and investelsewhere.Future provision for community sport123. The current rate of provision of halls of 3+ court size in <strong>Stoke</strong>-on-Trent is 0.27courts, compared to the national average of 0.38 courts per 1000. The newproposed network of 97 courts in halls of 3+ badminton court size would increasethis to 0.39 per 1000 by 2021 (plus the two centres with 2 + 1 courts at Wallaceand Weston Coyney). Around 1/3 of the total number of badminton courts will bemanaged on a low intensity basis, often with less hours than would be expectedthan those facilities managed on a high intensity basis.124. The proposals set out in the recommendations section will require somerevisiting if substantial changes are made at Fenton Manor. This will particularlyimpact upon the rate of provision per 1000. However, even if the sports hallspace there increases or decreases, this will not impact up the priorityrequirement for a network of accessible facilities across the City.SASSOT Framework findings and recommendations125. The Sport Across Staffordshire and <strong>Stoke</strong>-on-Trent Framework considered thestrategic need for sports halls, in particular the needs of club competition up toperformance and excellence levels. The ‘super-hub facilities’ are considered tobe halls of 6 court size and above. The proposed network of super-hub hallsacross <strong>Stoke</strong>-on-Trent and Staffordshire is illustrated by Figure 13.126. The Framework proposes that a network of 6+ court halls should be developedacross the SASSOT area with the exception of South Staffordshire which hasgood access to such facilities via neighbouring authorities. In some areas thiswould mean the provision of new facilities whilst in others it would involve theupgrading/retention of existing halls. Northwood, Fenton Manor and Dimensionswould be retained and refurbished under these proposals.127. Major sports events held at such venues can help raise profile, increase visitornumbers as well as increase the local community’s awareness of sport. The runup to the 2012 Olympic Games will provide unprecedented opportunities toattract major events (including training camps for competing teams) and developnew events. Fenton Manor has been included in the LOCOG* directory of 2012pre-games training camp venues, that is circulated to participating countries.Nortoft Partnerships Ltd <strong>Stoke</strong>-on-Trent Page | 143Sport & Physical Activity Strategy 2009-2016October 2009