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

160. The following projects in <strong>Stoke</strong>-on-Trent have been identified as priorities forinvestment by Staffordshire Rugby Union.Other ProjectsVenue MV Status TYPE Priority TimescaleHanford RFC 1 Relocation to H 2009/10sustainablevenue in <strong>Stoke</strong>on-TrentTrentham RFC 2 Perimeterfencing to siteH 2009/10Pitch Construction/ DrainageVenue MV Status TYPE Priority Timescale<strong>Stoke</strong>-on-Trent RFC 2 Drainage to 2 H 2009/10pitchesBalance in supply and demand161. The total number of teams over the period up to 2016 are anticipated toremain approximately the same as any increases in participation (at 1% pa)will be balanced by the falling number of people aged 13-45 years. The clubstend to draw from a large area of the City, and therefore should be seen asstrategic venues rather than NMA specific.162. With the total demand for rugby expected to remain overall approximately thesame, the focus should be on supporting the existing clubs to improve theirsites, and to find an appropriate secure location for the Hanford club.School reorganisation programme – implications163. All of the sites are in the southern/western area of the City, so there is arelatively poor geographical spread of provision.164. The potential relocation of local rugby clubs to secure community sites is anaspiration of the RFU and this would enable the clubs to become much moreeffective and attract new players. In locating a potential site, it will beimportant to consider both the current membership catchment of the clubsand also, if they relocate, any overlap with Trentham or Longton Clubs.Ideally sites are needed for the club to the north/north east of the City. TheCity Council have held initial exploratory discussions about using land eitherat James Brindley or at Mitchell School.Nortoft Partnerships Ltd <strong>Stoke</strong>-on-Trent Page | 330Sport & Physical Activity Strategy 2009-2016October 2009