A SPORT, RECREATION AND OPEN
SPACE FACILITY STRATEGY FOR
NEW EAST MANCHESTER
A
REPORT
BY
PMP
JULY 2003
CONTENTS
Page
Section 1 Introduction
1
Section 2 Strategic Context
4
Section 3 Current Position
14
Section 4 Sport by Sport Analysis
37
Section 5 Implications for Sport and Recreation
49
Section 6 The Way Forward
51
SECTION 1
INTRODUCTION
SECTION ONE: INTRODUCTION
Introduction
Background
1.1
In October 2002, New Deal for Communities (NDC) commissioned PMP to undertake
a detailed sports, recreation and open space facility strategy to address the principal
recreational issues facing the New East Manchester (NEM), incorporating the Sports
Action Zone (SAZ), area and make recommendations for the way forward.
The aim of the study is to provide clear direction to NDC and NEM in order to
protect and enhance open space and facility provision in East Manchester.
1.2
This strategy sets out to:

identify priorities for future developments

encourage partnerships to be developed to meet the needs of the local
communities

respond to the needs of the local communities and provide a wide range of
sporting and recreational opportunity

improve co-ordination of resources to maximise local benefit and avoid
duplication

strengthen and support funding applications for capital investment in sport
and recreation.
New East Manchester
1.3
New East Manchester is a regeneration area encompassing 1,100 ha immediately
east of Manchester City Centre. Map 1.1 overleaf shows the NEM area with the key
characteristics of the area including:

Traditional manufacturing base – 60% employment loss 1975-85

12.9% population loss in 1990’s declining to 31,503 (1999)

Collapse in housing market

20% vacant properties, Negative equity

Low skills base, High crime/ poor health/ poor community and retail facilities

Fragile economic base

52% households receive benefit

12% unemployment

Poor infrastructure and environment.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 1
SECTION ONE: INTRODUCTION
Map 1.1
New East Manchester
B6393
B6393
B6393
B6393
Harpurhey
Harpurhey
Failsworth
Failsworth
Heath
Newton
Newton Heath
Miles
Miles Platting
Platting
Clayton
Beswick
A6010
A6010
A6010
A6010
Droylsden
Droylsden
Openshaw
Ardwick
Ardwick
A6010
A6010
0
1.4
0.5
1 km
A6
A6
The two core objectives to East Manchester’s regeneration are:

creating sustainable communities through making East Manchester an
attractive place to live and work with a range and quality of facilities and
services that meets the needs of the local community and through making
sure that economic benefit is maximised for local people

ensuring that East Manchester maximises the contribution it can make to the
sub regional, regional and national economy.
Methodology
1.5
In preparing this study we have:

undertaken a detailed review of previous studies to provide a baseline
position and establish a strategic overview of the NEM area.

undertaken a comprehensive audit of sports and recreational facilities in NEM
and the surrounding area and site visits at key facilities

consulted with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders via face to
face meetings, telephone consultations and postal questionnaires including:
-
New Deal for Communities
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 2
SECTION ONE: INTRODUCTION
-
Sports Action Zone
-
New East Manchester
-
Sport England
-
Manchester City Council – Planning, Education and Leisure (facilities,
parks and sports development)
-
Groundwork Manchester
-
MANCAT
-
Local sports clubs.
Report structure
1.6
This report presents our findings from this study. Section 2 provides a strategic
overview. Section 3 reviews the current facility provision with Section 4 providing an
overview of the current demands and initiatives on an activity by activity basis.
1.7
Section 5 provides a clear understanding of the role of facilities with Sections 6
highlighting clear recommendations for the way forward.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 3
SECTION 2
STRATEGIC CONTEXT
SECTION TWO: STRATEGIC CONTEXT
Strategic Context
2.1
In order to prepare a sport, recreation and open space facility strategy for the NEM
area, it was important to carry out a detailed review of previous studies in order to
understand ongoing initiatives, programmes and developments within the area which
may impact on this strategy.
Game Plan (Dec 2002)
2.2
2.3
2.4
Published jointly by the Prime Minister's Strategy Unit and the Department for
Culture, Media and Sport this plan sets out to combat the couch potato culture and
improve our international sporting performance. It urges a shake-up of England’s
sporting structures to:

increase the levels of mass participation in sport and fitness activities

improve the development of young sporting talent and provide better support
for our world-class athletes

cut red tape

improve our handling of 'mega' and major events.
The report also:

highlights health benefits as the clearest advantage of encouraging greater
involvement in sport and other physical activities

says that introducing people to a wide range of sports and activities early on
encourages them to stay 'sports literate' for life

calls for better evaluation of pilot schemes to identify best ways of
encouraging people to take more exercise

states that local Councils should set targets to achieve health benefits
through sport and other activities

says resources need to be targeted on children and young people, women,
and older people, in particular those who live in economically-disadvantaged
areas, to encourage participation

calls for a new central database of sports facilities to help plan where new
investment may be needed, and to monitor use and participation levels.
One of the report's key recommendations is for tighter funding agreements between
Government and the Sports Councils. It says that decisions on handing over
taxpayer's money should be based on results achieved in raising participation and
elite level success, rather than on the programmes they are planning to run.
Following the introduction of Game Plan a target has been set to increase participation to
70% of the population and create a physical activity culture. The health benefits of sport
are clearly recognised however there is an increasing importance in promoting sport as a
‘physical activity’ and not just ‘sport for sport’s sake’.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 4
SECTION TWO: STRATEGIC CONTEXT
Manchester City Council Sports Policy
2.5
In order to identify the requirements for sport and leisure facilities in East
Manchester, it is important to understand the strategic sports development
framework that underpins sports development activity in the city.
2.6
It is also important to understand how local activities and programmes support,
deliver to and complement the city wide strategic sports policy and strategy. The
development of sports and leisure programmes within East Manchester should form
a vital part in the city’s overall strategic vision and objectives for the development of
sport city wide.
2.7
Accordingly, a number of factors can be identified which will impact significantly upon
the successful delivery of sport and recreation services to the communities of East
Manchester. These include:
Sports Policy 1 and 2
2.8
Provides a strategic city framework for the development and delivery of sport and
active recreation in Manchester. The policy sets out an integrated service provision
for facilities, events and programmes, with a strategic framework approach, that links
sports specific development with cross cutting thematic social agendas such as crime
and disorder, health, inclusion and regeneration.
New East Manchester Regeneration Framework “A New Town in the City”
2.9
New East Manchester Limited has the specific remit of driving forward a
comprehensive programme of economic, social and physical change for the area
over the next decade and beyond.
2.10
NEM have produced a robust framework which sets out a broad strategy for
achieving long term sustainable regeneration and growth in East Manchester. It is
anticipated that the delivery of this vision will result in an increase in population from
30,000 to 60,000 over the next ten to fifteen years.
2.11
Successful implementation of this framework will result in a new commercial and
leisure heart for the area in the form of Sportcity, a range of new and mixed use
initiatives along the Medlock Valley and Rochdale and Ashton Canal Corridors,
improvements in the transport links, improvement in social and economic conditions
and not least of which, high quality employment opportunities.
Beacons for a Brighter Future – Delivery Plan
2.12
Beacons for a Brighter Future is the regeneration programme for Beswick,
Openshaw and Clayton. There are two main pots of funding included within Beacons
including the New Deal for Communities (NDC) Single Regeneration Budget (SRB).
This funding is available until March 2010; by March 2003, £29.5m had been
allocated.
2.13
Beswick, Clayton and Openshaw were identified due to the level of deprivation as
well as identified strengths and opportunities.
2.14
The main themes of the Beacons delivery plan relate to: Crime and community
safety, housing and neighbourhood planning, young people, the environment,
employment, education and training and health and well-being.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 5
SECTION TWO: STRATEGIC CONTEXT
2.15
2.16
Opportunities within the Beacons area are seen as:

Sportcity and the City of Manchester Stadium

concentration of existing business and employment

good transport links, particularly through the completion of the M60 and the
expansion of the Metrolink system

Commonwealth Games and it’s legacy

strength of community and the commitment of the local people to improve the
area.
The problems identified within the area are highlighted as:

large areas of poor quality open space

problems with crime and anti-social behaviour

poor quality housing

lack of community / neighbourhood facilities – identified chronic lack in
Openshaw

few activities for children and young people.
Parks for All Seasons – Manchester City Council
2.17
This strategy recognises that parks and open spaces play an important part in the
continuing regeneration of Manchester as well as making the city an attractive place
to live and work.
2.18
A parks configuration framework has been adopted ranging from regional parks down
to small local parks and recreation grounds down to open spaces. The purpose of
this configuration allows the development of management plans for each facility
which encompasses the principles and policies contained within the strategy.
2.19
The strategy recognises the value of the parks in providing diversionary activities
which assist in tackling anti social behaviour and support wider crime prevention
initiatives.
2.20
The key issues and priority actions outlined in the strategy relate to the:

management, maintenance, funding and sustainability

security

education, health and social regeneration

sport, children’s play, dogs and equity of access

research and monitoring

tourism, events, catering and marketing

heritage.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 6
SECTION TWO: STRATEGIC CONTEXT
2.21
Problems identified with parks in terms of community use and recreation relate to a
lack of safe play facilities, fear of crime, poor maintenance, poor facilities for bowlers
and a general poor environment.
2.22
UDP and Supplementary Planning Guidance identifies Philips Park / Medlock Valley
as a major recreational resource through the provision of pedestrian and cycle links
to residential neighbourhoods.
2.23
Since this strategy has been adopted, much investment has been made to improve
the quality of parks throughout Manchester and the council and its associated
organisations are working towards maximising the potential for the public to enjoy the
park environment.
2.24
In improving existing and developing new parks it is identified that the future
sustainability is central. Reference has to be made to the City Council’s asset
management plan to consider the impact on existing provision management and
future maintenance requirement to ensure long term viability and sustainability.
2.25
A new Manchester Localised children’s play standard is currently under
development.
Philips Park Regeneration Framework
2.26
The main aim of this framework is to appraise and propose realistic and viable short
and long term options for refurbishment of the park and to restore and regenerate the
park. It is hoped that this will help to improve the quality of life for local residents and
unlock opportunities for recreation, nature conservation, employment, historical
development, outdoor education and interpretation in a safe and welcoming
environment.
2.27
In the parks strategy hierarchy, Philips Park falls under the heading of a district park
for the East Manchester area. As part of the framework it is hoped that Philips Park
will be developed to become a focal point for the Medlock Valley. There are key two
areas to the park; the Garden and Environment and the showfield which has five
distinct character areas, namely the garden, the valley, the showfield, the
environmental zone (including café and visitors centre) and the cemetery.
2.28
Opportunities identified in the regeneration framework for Philips Park include:

developing mini soccer linked with other proposals for football

linking emerging cycleway with Velodrome, cycle clubs to provide:
- Improved grass track racing on the showfield
- Use of 1km closed road cycle circuit
- Cycle hire
- Cycling for disabled – ‘Wheels for All’
- BMX track

relocating Clayton Community Farm

climbing – boulder / on viaduct

tennis – promoting links with the tennis centre

fishing
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 7
SECTION TWO: STRATEGIC CONTEXT

walking – including links to GP referrals

enhancement of allotments and community orchard

improved bowling facilities.
Medlock Valley Draft Strategic Action Plan
2.29
The Vision of this plan is to ensure that the Medlock Valley realises its full potential
as both a strategic open resource and focus of everyday life in East Manchester. The
Strategic objectives include:

enhanced accessibility at both strategic and local levels

develop greater levels of activity in the valley

to create a wider range facilities.
2.30
The main themes in this action plan relate to education, youth, sports, social
inclusion, arts, capacity building and awareness, crime and community safety, health,
waste management and land management.
2.31
One of the key aims of the strategy is to ensure that the appropriate sports provision
is in place in association with local clubs, in particular fishing, cross country training
and mountain biking. Another aim of the strategy is to enhance links with Sportcity
through the British Cycling Federation and Sale Harriers Manchester who are based
at the Athletics Centre.
2.32
It is recognised that to apply the strategic initiatives identified for Medlock Valley,
each sub-area within the valley is likely to require a bespoke approach in the
implementation of these strategic projects and proposals. The five sub-areas of
Medlock Valley are:

Lower Medlock

Holt Town

Sportcity

Philips Park

Clayton Vale.
Miles Platting Neighbourhood Planning
2.33
The neighbourhood planning documents support the regeneration framework with
detailed plans for the future of individual neighbourhood areas. The aim is to examine
the potential of the area, looking at local shopping and community facilities, sporting
and outdoor recreation areas, all tenures of housing, crime and safety issues
together with business, jobs and training opportunities.
2.34
Within this neighbourhood area a range of activities are being delivered including a
£22m project to bring the Rochdale Canal back to navigable status.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 8
SECTION TWO: STRATEGIC CONTEXT
2.35
In Miles Platting the community facilities such as shops, leisure and recreation are
not well used, often due to inaccessibility of their location. This will be re-planned as
part as part of the plan to improve local services.
2.36
Other projects planned for Miles Platting that may impact on sport and leisure include
a priority bus route along Oldham Road and a strategic reclamation of the Oldham
Road Corridor to tackle derelict and untidy eyesores.
2.37
A housing PFI project is also planned to include the clearance of ¼ of stock with the
aim of doubling the population from 7,000 to 14,000 in the next 5 – 10 years. A Joint
Service Centre is also planned to provide 3000m2 of community building to include a
library, adult education, General Medical Practice etc.
2.38
In terms of leisure facilities in Miles Platting, the Council are proposing to close Miles
Platting swimming pool once the new Harpurhey Leisure Centre opens. However
there may be potential to consider reducing the size of the pool area at Miles Platting
and link with the facilities being proposed via the community service centre.
Beswick Neighbourhood Planning
2.39
The draft master plan produced for Beswick incorporates a new primary and
secondary school. Much potential exists for the community use of sports facilities at
these new schools.
2.40
Within this neighbourhood area lies the Grange Community Centre. This has been
developed from refurbishment of a former school building and provides new
dedicated community facilities.
2.41
Improvements to Bradford Park are also underway which will provide additional
sporting and recreational facilities. The development of the New Town Centre, the
City of Manchester Stadium and Metrolink adjacent to Beswick, provides new
shopping and leisure facilities.
Ancoats Urban Village Neighbourhood Planning
2.42
There is a well-established strategy for the Urban Village and current activity includes
housing developments, £22m improvements to the Rochdale Canal and
improvements along Oldham Road. Residents have identified the lack of open space
and recreational areas as a result of the higher density, urban living.
New Islington / Cardroom Estate - Neighbourhood Planning
2.43
The Millennium Community Initiative and the selection of Urban Splash as lead
developer, provides a unique opportunity to redevelop the Cardroom Estate. Sections
of the Rochdale Canal corridor and Ashton Canal corridor fall within this area, both
are subject to improvements.
2.44
Other facilities that can be found in this area include a football field, Garden Island/
Park, a canoe centre, a primary school and play area.
Ashton New Road Corridor - Neighbourhood Planning
2.45
A series of problems and issues which impact on the residents and businesses in this
neighbourhood have been identified and as a result this area has been given priority.
2.46
In terms of leisure and recreation, Clayton Community Farm is situated in this area
on Turner Street. There are plans however to relocate this farm to Philips Park. This
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 9
SECTION TWO: STRATEGIC CONTEXT
neighbourhood area also comprises Hewlett Johnson Playing Fields and Clayton
Park.
2.47
There are 16 neighbourhood areas identified in East Manchester however these five
are at a more advanced stage in the process. A number of issues that directly relate
to sport, recreation and open space have been identified and will be considered in
the future as the neighbourhood planning process continues.
A Community Use Plan for Sportcity
2.48
Sportcity is comprised of major regional, national and international facilities including
the City of Manchester Tennis Centre, National Squash Centre, National Cycling
Centre, City of Manchester Stadium and English Institute of Sport (EIS) hub site
incorporating squash, indoor and outdoor athletics arena, health and fitness and
specialist sports science and sports medicine facilities.
2.49
In addition to providing world class facilities for the Commonwealth Games and future
national and international events, Sportcity is seen as the catalyst for social and
economic regeneration of East Manchester.
2.50
There is an expectation by all funding partners that all facilities at Sportcity should
contribute to the lasting benefits of the Games across all legacy programme areas
and, particularly, that Sportcity should be a catalyst for change within Beswick,
Clayton and the wider East Manchester community.
2.51
Accordingly, a Community Use Plan has been endorsed by the funding partners as a
part of the Lottery Funding Agreement. The Community Use Plan envisages that the
Sportcity facilities will provide a catalyst for developing sustainable community and
health partnerships in and around the area for local people; and that Sportcity will
provide a focus for regional and city wide sports development activities.
2.52
The Plan acknowledges the need for appropriate structures to be put in place to
ensure wider community access to Sportcity and recognises the significant potential
of Sportcity to deliver community programmes at both a local and city wide level.
2.53
The Plan emphasises the need to focus on building these structures outside Sportcity
in order that the community is in a better position to access the available
opportunities. The Plan also envisages the development of a multi-agency delivery
approach with a range of potential partners, e.g. social regeneration, community wellbeing, healthy living and sports development agencies.
2.54
Whilst there is community access to the facilities at Sportcity it is set within the
context of high level competitive sport. While it is acknowledged that elite sport will
have the priority use of the facilities, potentially limiting the community benefit.
Sportcity is the hub for the English Institute of Sport (EIS) and it is likely that there will
be competition between the demand for facilities for EIS athletes and ‘pay and play’
community use. However community use is increasing will be maximised through the
development of a balanced programme of use, that will facilitate access for the
community, and reflect both casual ‘pay and play’ and programmed sports
development activity.
Ludlum Associates – Playing Pitch Demand Assessment
2.55
In 2002 the Playing Pitch methodology was applied to New East Manchester and
Gorton area. Within this study 27 full sized pitches (22 grass football, 1 rugby, 4 STP)
were identified with 23 of these available for community use.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION TWO: STRATEGIC CONTEXT
2.56
This study highlighted an over supply of senior playing pitches with the quality of
pitches being the major problem in attracting participants. The study provided a
valuable source of data concerning the current level of facility provision however it is
important to recognise the limitations of applying the PPM to a relatively small area of
the City.
City Wide Strategy for Development of Soccer Facilities, August 2000
2.57
The aim of this strategy was to develop and promote across the city the opportunity
to participate in football by all members of the community, through the development
of facilities and programmes, allowing every participant to attain their own level of
achievement according to aspiration and ability.
2.58
The strategy identifies Manchester Leisure as a priority for improvements for
synthetic turf pitches, new changing facilities, refurbished changing facilities, mini
soccer sites, multi sport facilities and sports halls
2.59
The study identified that developments planned for sites in the NEM area included:
2.60

Hewlett Johnson Playing Fields – new changing facility and development of
new mini soccer site including multi sport area

Delamere Park - 5-a-side rebound goal units, tarmac multi use play area,
tennis court with steel net and outdoor basketball court

David Lewis Recreation Ground – mini soccer pitches, multi sport area
tarmac multi use play area, tennis court with steel net, outdoor basketball
goals.
Of these identified developments both the improvements to Hewlett Johnson Playing
Fields and Delamere Park have been completed. However the proposals for David
Lewis Recreation Ground area are no longer appropriate following the improvements
to facilities in Bradford Park and the proposed provision of facilities on the site of a
new primary school in Beswick. The David Lewis Recreation Ground is now
identified for housing development.
Residents Perception Survey 2002
2.61
In June 2002, the Beacons Partnership and New East Manchester commissioned
Kwest to undertake a resident perceptions survey of the New East Manchester area.
2.62
It is important to note that these figures represent a significant improvement over the
NDC baseline survey in 1999 highlighting the improvements that have been made
over the three years between the surveys. These improvements can be seen on the
next page.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION TWO: STRATEGIC CONTEXT
Difficulty Of Getting To
Parks In The Area
By Year Of Survey
June 2002
28
June 1999
51
18
0
10
Difficulty Of Getting To
Playing Fields In The Area
By Year Of Survey
31
20
30
12 4 6
16
40
50
60
11
70
24
80
90
635
June 2002
731
June 1999
100
June 1999
11
33
OK
5 6 7
0
10
17
20
30
23
59
40
50
60
70
2.63
20
30
40
11
50
60
80
90
6 10
580
29
70
80
694
90
100
OK
Rating Of Sport & Leisure Facilities
In The Area
By Year Of Survey
446
June 2002
5
632
June 1999
14 5
100
0
Percentage Of Respondents
Very Easy
Fairly Easy
Fairly Difficult
Very Difficult
Comparison Is For Beacons/NDC only
10
16
Very Easy
Fairly Easy
Fairly Difficult
Very Difficult
Comparison Is For Beacons/NDC only
16
23
29
13
Percentage Of Respondents
Difficulty Of Getting To
Sports And Leisure Facilities In The Are
By Year Of Survey
June 2002
51
16
0
Percentage Of Respondents
Very Easy
Fairly Easy
Fairly Difficult
Very Difficult
Comparison Is For Beacons/NDC only
20
OK
25
10
20
19
20
20
32
70
30
40
50
60
675
70
facilities for young people (22%)

sports / leisure facilities (14%)

parks / opens spaces (6%)

community centres / facilities (5%).
80
90
Percentage Of Respondents
Very Good
Fairly Good
Fairly Bad
Very Bad
Comparison Is For Beacons/NDC only
OK
While there has been an improvement in both the physical facilities and residents
perceptions the survey highlighted areas in need of improvement. These were, in
order of priority:

504
2.64
Within the NEM area the most popular activity undertaken by residents is walking
(39%) followed by swimming 13%. Badminton, tennis and squash are not very
popular within the area (1%).
2.65
Overall, a large proportion of residents feel the area is changing for the better and
improvements in terms of crime levels, perceptions of safety and access to facilities
were recorded. A considerable proportion of residents also stated that their quality of
life has improved as a direct result of funding and regeneration.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 12
100
SECTION TWO: STRATEGIC CONTEXT
Implications for this Study

An aspirational increase in population from 30,000 to 60,000 over the next ten
to fifteen years will have a significant impact on the demand for sport and
leisure facilities

Many opportunities exist to improve sport and leisure provision in some areas of
East Manchester in conjunction with other agencies

Implementation of the Parks Strategy and much investment has contributed to
an improvement in the quality of parks in East Manchester

A large proportion of residents feel the area is changing for the better with
access and quality of facilities getting better – improved sport and leisure
provision can add to this

Many initiatives are ongoing within the NEM area which interrelate and cross
over in many ways. It is important therefore that this strategy considers these
developments and assist to provide an overall strategy for the East Manchester
area within the context of city wide strategic provision.

Changing focus from ‘sport for sport’s sake’ to ‘physical activity’ and a clear
recognition of the health benefits.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 13
SECTION 3
CURRENT POSITION
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
Current Position
3.1.
A detailed audit of the current sports and recreation provision in the NEM area has
been completed. In addition to the NEM area the audit included both main facilities
from neighbouring areas and those identified as serving the population of NEM.
3.2.
The audit identifies that there is a range of facilities currently being used for
community sports and recreation. The audit identifies:
3.3.
Existing facilities in use
Sports and recreation facilities that are currently
used by a community group or individual.
Existing facilities not in
use
Sports and recreation facilities that are not used at
the current time. These include facilities unavailable
for community use as a result of poor condition or
restricted access.
Facilities with uncertain
long term future
Sports and recreation facilities, whether in use or
not, where the long term future is uncertain due to
closure or loss. This includes facilities identified
within the NEM Regeneration Framework within a
development area or those which may have to
close due to poor condition.
Opportunities
Sites where opportunities to develop new or
improved community sport and recreational facilities
have been identified.
The audit identified a total of 68 sports and recreation facilities which can be
identified in Map 3.1 overleaf and in further detail in Appendix A.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
Map 3.1
3.4.
All Community Sports and Recreation Facilities
The primary facilities serving the area include:
Community Sports Facilities
Sportcity
3.5.
The focal point for the 2002
Commonwealth Games was Sportcity
situated to the East of Manchester city
centre. Sportcity is a state of the art
complex build around the City of
Manchester Stadium, The National Squash
Centre, The National Cycling Centre, the
Indoor Tennis Centre and the Indoor and
Outdoor Athletics Arena.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 15
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
3.6.
Sportcity is the largest integrated sporting development in Britain, supported by the
Sport England Lottery Fund. Sportcity houses the English Institute of Sport for the
whole North West region.
National Cycling Centre
3.7.
The National Cycling Centre was developed as a joint venture between the Sports
Council, Manchester City Council and the British Cycling Federation. Funding was
provided by the Government, through the Department of the Environment (£6.5m),
the Sports Council (£2m) and the Foundation for Sport and the Arts (£1m).
Manchester City Council is the freehold owner and the centre is managed by The
Velodrome Trust. The centre has been awarded with British Olympic Association
Accreditation, one of only two facilities in the country to have it.
3.8.
The building houses a 250 metre track which covers 10,000 square metres and is the
first purpose built indoor cycling facility in the U.K. The Velodrome is open to
everyone regardless of their level of ability and although it is primarily a cycle facility,
it also provides first class services for other sports. Other sports facilities at the
centre include, fully sprung sports courts for basketball, netball and badminton and a
motiv - 8 fitness room for all round conditioning.
3.9.
The arena has a seating capacity of 3,500 around the track and a total of 1,000 in the
centre. This capacity in the centre area allows for spectators for events such as
basketball in a smaller arena defined by the 40 x 38 metre ‘square’.
3.10.
Since opening the centre has been used for a variety of other events ranging from
aerobics classes to the World Acrobatics Championships. The centre also provides
function facilities including a cafe with seating for up to 150 and two hospitality suites
which depending on their use, can seat up to 70 people.
3.11.
The centre is not just for the elite, the Eastlands Velo club run three sessions a week
for younger riders and sessions are also run for which bike hire is available ‘Tasters’, track skills and Induction sessions for club riders aspiring to learn to ride the
track and acquire new skills, as well as turn-up-and-ride training sessions.
3.12.
The track is in use almost every day of the year with a wide range of organisations
with racing take place regularly at the Velodrome throughout the winter from
September until April with three local leagues running meetings during the week. The
facility is open to the public for viewing between the hours of 9am and 10pm (subject
to other events taking place during the year).
3.13.
The whole facility is enclosed with car park spaces for 500 cars and coaches; the car
par is also marked out for netball courts.
English Institute of Sport
3.14.
The English Institute of Sport facilities, located within Sportcity, include the National
Squash Centre, 6,000 seat outdoor athletics stadium, indoor athletics, health and
fitness suite and sports medicine facilities.
National Squash Centre
3.15.
The National Squash Centre is located within Sportcity and is home of the Squash
Rackets Association. The Centre provides six permanent singles courts which can be
converted in to four doubles courts and one moveable glass exhibition court. The
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 16
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
Centre is the focus for the development of the sport from grass roots through to
international level.
3.16.
The National Squash Centre is housed in the English Institute of Sport arena that
also includes a 200m track and jumping pits as well as facilities for indoor sports. The
centre’s main feature is the 116-tonne show court that can be raised 3mm off the
floor and moved in and out of the main arena.
City of Manchester Tennis Centre
3.17.
This facility provides six indoor tennis courts in two large halls, each housing three
courts. The facility also includes outdoor provision, having one block of four courts
and one block of three courts – one of which is a mini tennis court.
3.18.
The facility provides an excellent venue for table tennis with one of the halls
accommodating four show courts and the majority of the spectator seating. The other
holds up to six competition tables and a number of warm up/practice tables.
City of Manchester Stadium
3.19.
The 48, 000 capacity stadium received £77m of funding from Sport England. The
stadium hosted the opening and closing ceremonies, all athletics events and Rugby
7's at the 2002 Commonwealth games and will become Manchester City FC's new
home for the 2003/4 season and beyond.
Miles Platting Pools (125)
3.20.
The Miles Platting pool complex is a leisure facility that serves the whole community.
The complex comprises of three swimming pools, including a learner pool, as well as
a health suite and sunbed. Programming of pool time includes adult sessions,
general swimming, swimming club, swimming lessons, water polo, and early birds
sessions.
3.21.
There have been ongoing problems with the pumping system and pipes at the
swimming pools and repairs are getting more costly every year. It appears that
repairs to the pipework and pumping system are not proving to be cost effective and
the pool is proposed to be closed following the opening of the Harpurhey pool.
Manchester Aquatics Centre (253)
3.22.
The Manchester Aquatics Centre is a new £32 million swimming pool complex which
first opened in September 2000. Largely funded by Sport England, it is the only
complex in the UK with two 50-metre pools (one competition and one training pool)
as well as separate diving and leisure pools and extensive leisure waters with flumes
and bubble pools. The 50 metre training pool, which is used by elite swimming
squads, is in the basement. There is also a health and fitness suite, a poolside cafe
and a crèche.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
3.23.
The main pool can be divided up into three
sections, two of which have variable depth
floors. The diving pool also has a variable
depth floor, down to a maximum of 5 metres
and the training pool can be subdivided with a
travelling boom to vary the length. There are
1,500 permanent spectator places. During the
Commonwealth Games, the leisure waters
were covered over by additional temporary
seating to increase the capacity to 2,500.
3.24.
All three universities in Manchester contributed to its development with students and
staff being given access at concessionary rates, and certain sessions being reserved
for university clubs. The facility is now fully open for community use and also acts as
the Regional High Performance Centre for Swimming.
Harpurhey Pools (124)
3.25.
The swimming pool at Harpurhey was closed in 2002 due to health and safety
problems. Work on a brand new leisure centre and swimming pool has begun in
order to replace the old Harpurhey baths. The new facility will provide a 25m pool
and is due to open in November 2003.
Ten Acre Lane Sports Complex
3.26.
The Ten Acre Lane Sports Complex provides a vital community facility and
comprises of a four court sports hall and a floodlit sand based synthetic turf pitch.
There are also changing facilities and car park on site. This facility is used as a mini
soccer centre at weekends.
Belle Vue Regional Hockey Centre and Sports Centre
3.27.
3.28.
Belle Vue is located less than five minutes from Sportcity and the centre has
undergone a £3 million Sport England-funded redevelopment. Facilities at the centre
include:

two water based hockey pitches (STPs)

an indoor sports hall with eight international standard badminton courts

comprehensive health and fitness facilities

a cricket academy

a multi-media conference centre.
As part of the new English Institute of Sport network linked to the Manchester
Aquatics Centre and Sportcity, Belle Vue is a Regional Performance Centre for both
hockey and badminton.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
Droylsden Swimming Pool (248)
3.29.
The Droylsden Pool is located over the border in Tameside however still serves the
residents of East Manchester. The facility provides a 25x10m pool. It is in a poor
state of repair and will be closed when a new pool is built at Medlock Sports Centre.
Medlock Leisure Centre
3.30.
Medlock Leisure Centre is located over the border in Droylsden, Tameside however
may serve a proportion of residents in the NEM area. The centre provides a four
court sports hall, two squash courts as well as an activity room, weights room,
sunbed and licensed bar.
Parks
Bradford Park
3.31.
Bradford Park is at the heart of Beswick and close to the City of Manchester Stadium.
The park has recently been refurbished (2002) which has resulted in the entire area
providing a focal point for all ages. A brand new play area for the 5-12 year age
group and a completely redeveloped under fives play area are the highlights of the
revamped Bradford Park. The Park is approximately 1.4 Hectares in size and
facilities available include a new Multi Use Games Area, children’s play area and
skateboard ramp.
Philips Park
3.32.
Philips Park is a 30 acre site located in Clayton and was Manchester’s first public
park. The park has benefited from a major facelift and further improvements are
planned to re-establish Philips Park as a quality facility serving the local community
and visitors from further a field.
3.33.
Improvements include pond cleaning, footpaths have been repaired and new
summer bedding plants, floral displays and wild flowers have been planted. The
Lodge in Philips Park has also been refurbished and modernised and now serves as
a visitor information point for the park as well as accommodating meeting rooms and
new toilets.
3.34.
A new children’s playground and hard standing multi-sports area for cricket, football
and basketball has just been completed and there are more benches, picnic tables,
extra litter bins and better signage. A section of the Park to the north of the River
Medlock also provides extra cemetery space for the City.
3.35.
Facilities provided at Philips Park include a bowling green with portacabin hut, shale
tennis courts (no nets or markings), a children’s play area, a tarmac MUGA and
allotments.
Clayton Park / Clayton Vale
3.36.
Clayton forms part of East Manchester and has green space in the shape of Clayton
Vale and Clayton Park. The Vale has a network of paths for walking, cycling and
horse riding and there are picnic areas, fishing ponds and a visitor centre. Clayton
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
Park is an 8-acre site and is one of the City's smallest parks. Nevertheless it offers a
variety of recreational facilities including a bowling green, veteran’s pavilion, beehive
club and playground, and community centre. The Park also contains the Cenotaph
and Clayton Hall, which dates back to the 15th Century.
Openshaw Park
3.37.
Openshaw Park has undergone a range of improvements which include upgrading of
sports and play facilities, new perimeter fencing, new surfacing and remarking of
basketball and 5-a-side areas plus improved pathways and seating. A major
component of the new play area includes the space age Alien climbing frame. The
park has one junior pitch, however, there are no changing rooms on site. The park
also has a tarmac tennis court with steel net.
Hewlett Johnson Park and Playing Fields
3.38.
Hewlett Johnson is located in Clayton and provides a children’s playground as well
as a newly installed MUGA and three football pitches. There are two grass adult and
one junior pitch with associated changing rooms. The park also provides a dog free
area.
3.39.
Other parks that are located within the NEM include:
3.40.

Delamere Park: two bowling greens, two tennis courts, a basketball area, a
five-a-side football pitch, children’s play area and a skateboard ramp

Victoria Mill Park: children’s play area and enclosed MUGA.

Dreyfus Memorial Park

Millennium Green

Lees Street Recreation Ground.
Gorton Park and Debdale are located outside of the NEM area, however, they serve
a large proportion of East Manchester residents. Debdale Park is one of
Manchester's largest parks and includes an outdoor activity centre.
Community Buildings
Crossley House Youth Centre
3.41.
Situated in Higher Openshaw, this youth centre is housed in an old victorian building
and is in a very poor condition. The centre comprises of two small halls, two small
squash courts, which are located in the cellar, and a very small health and fitness
facility with old equipment. The centre is home to Crossley House boxing club.
Ardwick Youth Centre
3.42.
This community centre provides venue for the young people of Ardwick to meet and
is the base of the Ardwick Boxing Club. The centre is in very poor condition and the
building is in need of repair.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 20
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
The Grange Community Centre
3.43.
The Grange Community Centre is located in a former special school along Albert
Street in Beswick and provides a range of services for the local community. Facilities
include a new ICT learning centre, a fully equipped crèche and a cyber café. There
are also services delivered at the centre for older people and for young children,
including a sensory room designed specifically for children with special needs.
Grange has proved to be a popular Resource Centre for local residents.
Clayton Youth Centre
3.44.
Clayton Youth Centre is run by Manchester Youth Service who offer various services
for young people living in all districts of the city. The Centre has a small sports hall
which is in very poor condition, the hall is two badminton court size. There is also a
very small health and fitness facility at the centre.
3.45.
Other community buildings that serve the NEM area include:

Stanley Street Youth Centre

Northside Boxing Club

West Gorton Youth Centre

Ancoats Youth and Community Centre.
Schools
Wright Robinson Sports College
3.46.
Wright Robinson Sports College is located in Gorton in the district of Abbey Hey. The
Sports College offers excellent opportunities for physical education and sporting
activities to their own pupils, the pupils of their partner schools (both primary and
secondary) and to the wider community. In March 2002, Wright Robinson was one of
only two schools in the country to be awarded the coveted Sportsmark Gold with
Distinction title.
3.47.
Facilities at the college include a 20m swimming pool, two small indoor sports halls, a
sand based floodlit STP, five recently resurfaced tennis courts and two adult grass
football pitches. The pitches however are in poor condition and are in need of
drainage works.
St Peter RC High School
3.48.
St Peters High School closed in June 2003 with pupils relocating to the new campus
in Belle Vue. The existing school site has been identified by New East Manchester
Ltd as a development area and following the relocation of the school there is
potential for the main school site to be redeveloped.
3.49.
The site currently provides sports facilities including a four-court badminton hall, one
outdoor grass junior size football pitch, an IT suite and associated changing rooms
for male and female. The site has a separate road access and car park and the
utilities to the sports hall are believed to be independent from the main school site.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 21
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
Medlock Valley High School
3.50.
This school is a dual use facility which provides a variety of leisure facilities including
a small sports hall (one badminton court in size), one adult playing pitch (not in use)
and two new floodlit 5-a-side tarmac courts which are marked out for tennis. The
school also has OBI goals and there are three old tennis courts, which are in need of
renovation.
Nicholls Sixth Form College
3.51.
The Sixth Form Centre is located in Ardwick and provides a three court sports hall
and grass football pitch however the pitch is subject to development. The facilities
are used by both the college and the community.
Ravensbury County Primary School
3.52.
The primary school is located in Clayton. This is a new built facility and includes an
indoor hall, floodlit MUGA and playground designed specifically to enable community
use resulting in a significant addition to the range of community facilities in the area.
St Barnabas CE Primary School
3.53.
This primary school has a MUGA which is split into three small areas with
floodlighting installed in June 2003. This is used for a variety of activities including
football and netball.
3.54.
In total, there are thirteen primary schools in East Manchester each providing a range
of facilities. With St Peters closed in June 2003, while previously offering limited
community use, the loss of these facilities will have a significant impact on the
potential provision of community sports facilities in the area. Whilst Wright Robinson
Sports College is located outside the NEM boundary, it serves a large proportion of
the community and is a focus for several of the sports development programmes.
3.55.
A new primary school is currently under development in Beswick and there are
proposals to develop a new primary school in Ancoats and a secondary school in
Beswick. Further details of school proposals are provided later in this section.
3.56.
To enable more detailed analysis the range of current facilities has been grouped into
the following categories:

Swimming Pools

Sports Halls and Community Buildings / Centres

Parks

School facilities

Formal Community Playing Fields

Informal Recreation Areas

Opportunities.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 22
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
Swimming Pools
Map 3.2
3.57.
Swimming Facilities that serve the area include:






3.58.
Swimming Pools
Wright Robinson Sports College (120)
Harpurhey Pools (124)
Miles Platting Pools (125)
Droylsden Swimming Pool (248)
Manchester Aquatics Centre (253)
Denton Pools (255)
It can be seen that there is only one swimming pool facility within the boundaries of
NEM, namely the Miles Platting Pool Complex. However, there are plans to close this
facility once the pool at Harpurhey is opened will result in no swimming pools located
within the East Manchester boundaries, nevertheless there are five pool sites that lie
just outside of the NEM.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 23
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
0
Sports Halls
Map 3.3
0.5
Sports Halls
Manchester Business
Business Park
Park
Manchester
Business
Park
North
North
North Manchester
181
191
Street
Street
Bank
Bank
Bank Street
Miles
Miles
Miles Platting
Platting
Platting
Clayton
Clayton
Clayton
254
133
Urban Village
Village
Urban
Village
Ancoats
Ancoats
Ancoats Urban
182
Ashton
Ashton Canal
Canal Corridor/Sportscity
Corridor/Sportscity
Ashton
Canal
Corridor/Sportscity
Estate
Estate
Cardroom
Cardroom
Cardroom Estate
266
New Road
Road
New
Road
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton New
93
Besw
Besw
Beswick
ick
ick 96
Medlock Valley
Valley
Medlock
Valley
Low
Low
Lower
er
er Medlock
West
West
Openshaw
Openshaw
Openshaw West
High
High
High Legh
Legh
Legh
Legh
High
High
High
Legh
184
Old Road
Road South
South
Old
Road
South
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton Old
100
Street
Street
Toxteth
Toxteth
Toxteth Street
Street
Street
Delamere/Ogden
Delamere/Ogden
Delamere/Ogden Street
116
120
54
3.59.
Sports halls identified that serve the NEM include:













3.60.
Regional Hockey Centre and Leisure Centre (54)
Medlock Valley High School (93)
The Grange Community Resource Centre (96)
St Peters RC High School (100)
Nichols Sixth Form College (116)
Wright Robinson Sports College (120)
Ravensbury Community Primary School (133)
Ten Acre Sports Complex (181)
National Cycle Centre (182)
Crossley House Youth Centre (184)
Clayton Youth Centre (191)
Medlock Leisure Centre (254)
Athletics centre (266).
It can be seen that there are nine sports halls identified within the NEM area.
However, when considering the supply of sports halls it is important to assess the
size of the hall, level of access and range of activities that can be offered.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 24
1 km
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
3.61.
In terms of dedicated sports provision it is considered that a minimum size of sports
hall to enable a full range of activities is 4 badminton courts. While the other halls
provide an important community facility the potential as a sporting venue is limited.
3.62.
The audit has highlighted that the following are considered as formal sports halls:









3.63.
Regional Hockey Centre and Leisure Centre (54)
Medlock Valley High School (93)
St Peters RC High School (100)
Nichols Sixth Form College (116)
Wright Robinson Sports College (120)
Ten Acre Sports Complex (181)
National Cycle Centre (182)
Medlock Leisure Centre (254)
Athletics centre (266).
It can be seen that there are no sports hall facilities, of any size, directly serving the
Miles Platting / Ancoats area. In addition, following the closure of St Peter’s RC High
School there will be no sports hall facilities in Openshaw.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 25
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
Parks
Map 3.4
Parks
0
Manchester Business
Business Park
Park
Manchester
Business
Park
North
North
North Manchester
160
277
206
107
Street
Street
Bank
Bank
Bank Street
Miles
Miles
Miles Platting
Platting
Platting
Platting
Miles
Miles
Miles
Platting
Clayton
Clayton
Clayton
278
Urban Village
Village
Urban
Village
Ancoats
Ancoats
Ancoats Urban
104
128
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton Canal
Canal
Canal
Corridor/Sportscity
Corridor/Sportscity
Canal
Corridor/Sportscity
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton
Canal Corridor/Sportscity
Corridor/Sportscity
Cardroom Estate
Cardroom
Cardroom
Estate
Estate
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton New
New
New
Road
Road
New
Road
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton
New Road
Road
Besw
Besw
Beswick
ick
ick
ick
Besw
Besw
Besw
ick
ick
144
Openshaw
Openshaw
Openshaw West
West
West
Low
Low
Lower
er
er Medlock
Medlock
Medlock Valley
Valley
Valley
102
98
Old Road
Road South
South
Old
Road
South
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton Old
High
High
High Legh
Legh
Legh
Legh
High
High
High
Legh
Street
Street
Toxteth
Toxteth
Toxteth Street
192
259
Street
Street
Delamere/Ogden
Delamere/Ogden
Delamere/Ogden
Street
119
149
3.64.
Parks identified that serve the NEM area include:











Openshaw Park (98)
Millennium Green (102)
Hewlett Johnston Playing Fields (104)
Dreyfus Memorial Park (107)
Gorton Park (119)
Clayton Park (128)
Bradford Park (144)
Debdale Park (149)
Victoria Mill Park (160)
Delamere Park (192)
Philips Park (206)
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 26
0.5
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION



Lees Street Recreation Ground (259)
Sandal Street Park (277)
Freshfields Informal Sports Area (278)
3.65.
It is clear that the area is relatively well served by a number of large strategic parks
which have been the focus for significant investment and improvements. These
strategic parks are supported by a number of smaller, local parks and informal play
areas to serve local catchment areas.
3.66.
The smaller local parks identified include:





3.67.
Millennium Green (102)
Hewlett Johnston Playing Fields (104)
Dreyfus Memorial Park (107)
Victoria Mill Park (160)
Lees Street Recreation Ground (259).
It is considered that the area is reasonably well served by parks, many of which have
received significant investment. While these are supported by a number of smaller
community gardens there are areas where access to local facilities is limited. The
neighbourhood planning process will look to address access to local parks where
such investment can be demonstrated to be sustainable over the long term.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 27
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
0
School facilities
Map 3.5
School Facilities
North
North
North
Manchester
Manchester
Business
Business
Park
Park
North
North
North Manchester
Manchester
Manchester
Manchester Business
Business
Business
Business Park
Park
Park
Park
113
106
271
Bank
Bank
Bank Street
Street
Street
Miles
Miles
Miles
Platting
Platting
Miles
Miles
Miles Platting
Platting
Platting
Clayton
Clayton
Clayton
Clayton
Clayton
Clayton
133
Ancoats
Ancoats
Ancoats Urban
Urban
Urban Village
Village
Village
274
Canal Corridor/Sportscity
Corridor/Sportscity
Canal
Corridor/Sportscity
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton Canal
Cardroom
Cardroom
Estate
Estate
Estate
Cardroom
Cardroom
Cardroom Estate
Estate
Estate
105
132
93
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton
New
New
Road
Road
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton New
New
New
New Road
Road
Road
Road
134
Besw
Besw
Beswick
ick
ick
Medlock Valley
Valley
Medlock
Valley
Low
Low
Lower
er
er Medlock
261
130
West
West
Openshaw
Openshaw
Openshaw West
103
131
High
High
High
Legh
Legh
High
High
High Legh
Legh
Legh
97
260
100
Toxteth
Toxteth
Toxteth Street
Street
Street
Street
Toxteth
Toxteth
Toxteth
Street
Old Road
Road South
South
Old
Road
South
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton Old
265
Delamere/Ogden
Delamere/Ogden
Delamere/Ogden
Street
Street
Delamere/Ogden
Delamere/Ogden
Delamere/Ogden Street
Street
Street
Street
116
275
269
141
272
120
122
279
264
3.68.
School facilities identified include:












Medlock Valley High School (93)
St Barnabas CE Primary School (97)
St Peters RC High School (Openshaw) (100)
Higher Openshaw Community School (103)
Seymour Road County Primary School (105)
St Willibrords RC Primary School (106)
Nicholas Varley Community School (113)
Nicholls Sixth Form College (116)
Wright Robinson Sports College (120)
St James CE Primary School (122)
Ashbury County Primary School (130)
Bank Meadow County Primary School (131)
270
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 28
0.5
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION














Corpus Christi with St Anne’s RC Primary School (132)
Ravensbury County Primary School (133)
CE School of the Resurrection (134)
Varna Street County Primary school (141)
Fairfield High School (260)
St Brigid’s RC Primary School (261)
Cedar Mount High School (264)
St Clements’s CE Primary School (265)
Gorton Brook Primary (269)
Melland High School (270)
St Mark’s CE Primary School (271)
Al Saints Primary School (272)
St Francis RC Primary School (275)
St Peter’s High School (Longsight) (279)
3.69.
School facilities are central to the development of sport and provide the basis for
many sports development initiatives which are based around secondary and primary
school clusters.
3.70.
The schools in the area offer a range of facilities and have received investment in
improved facilities, particularly in playground improvements. Wider community
access to school facilities does however vary resulting in some areas a potential
community resource not being fully utilised.
3.71.
Further investment is planned through the Sporting Playgrounds and the NOF PE
and School Sport programmes to provide sports zones in school playgrounds, trim
trails and multi sport areas within primary schools. Schools identified for playground
improvements include:






Seymour Road County Primary School
Varna Street County Primary School
Ravensbury County Primary School
Corpus Christi with St Anne’s RC County Primary
Higher Openshaw Community School
Gorton Mount Special School.
3.72.
Manchester City Council has recently concluded a review of primary and secondary
school places throughout the city. The report highlights a number of
recommendations regarding the future provision of school places across the city with
the main impact of the review on the NEM area being the potential merger of Varna
Street County Primary School and St Clements’s Primary School.
3.73.
It has been highlighted that the Roman Catholic Primary School are undergoing a
similar review of schools places where it is noted that there are falling pupil numbers
and a 20% surplus of school places in 2003.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 29
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
Formal Community Playing Fields
Map 3.6
0
0.5
Formal Community Playing Fields including those in areas of
potential development
109
North
North
North Manchester
Manchester
Manchester Business
Business
Business Park
Park
Park
257
113
111
106
Bank
Bank Street
Street
Street
Bank
Bank
Bank
Street
Miles
Miles
Miles Platting
Platting
Platting
Platting
Miles
Miles
Miles
Platting
Clayton
Clayton
Clayton
Ancoats
Ancoats
Urban
Urban Village
Village
Village
Urban
Village
Ancoats
Ancoats
Ancoats Urban
104
Canal
Corridor/Sportscity
Canal
Corridor/Sportscity
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton Canal
Canal Corridor/Sportscity
Corridor/Sportscity
262
Cardroom
Cardroom Estate
Estate
Cardroom
Cardroom
Estate
Estate
249
105
132
Ashton
Ashton
New
Road
Ashton
New
Road
Ashton
Ashton New
New
New Road
Road
Road
93
Beswick
ick
Besw
Besw
Besw
ick
ick
91
Low
Lower
er
Medlock
Medlock
Valley
Valley
Medlock
Valley
Low
Low
Low
er
er Medlock
Medlock Valley
Valley
92
261
130
Openshaw West
West
West
Openshaw
Openshaw
Openshaw
103
131
252
102
98
High
High
High Legh
Legh
Legh
Legh
High
High
High
Legh
100
Toxteth
Toxteth
Street
Toxteth
Street
Toxteth
Toxteth Street
Street
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton
Old
Old
Road
Road South
South
South
Ashton
Ashton Old
Old
Old Road
Road
South
South
Street
Street
Delamere/Ogden
Delamere/Ogden
Delamere/Ogden Street
116
115
118
120
119
3.74.
Sites identified with a playing field include:
















Rylance Street (91)
David Lewis Playing Fields (92)
Medlock Valley High School (93)
Openshaw Park (98)
St Peters RC High School (100)
Millennium Green (102)
Hewlett Johnson Playing Fields (104)
Seymour Road County Primary School (105)
St Willibrods RC Primary School (106)
Bower Street Recreation Ground (109)
Iron Street Pitch (111)
Nicholas Varley Community School (113)
Godfrey Ermen Playing Fields (115)
King George V Playing Fields (118)
Gorton Park (119)
Wright Robinson Sports College (120)
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
250
Page 30
1 km
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION









Ashbury County Primary School (130)
Bank Meadow County Primary School (131)
Corpus Christi with St Annes RC Primary School (132)
Sunnybank Park (249)
West Denton Cricket Club (250)
Aldwinians Rugby Club (252)
Newton Heath Cricket Club (257)
St Brigid’s RC Primary School (261)
City of Manchester Stadium (262)
3.75.
It has been identified that while there are a significant number of sites identified as
formal playing fields in the NEM and surrounding area many are not used at the
current time due to poor condition or limited access.
3.76.
It is considered that under the Sport England playing pitch methodology only the
pitches that are currently available and maintained, with secure community access,
are considered available for community use.
3.77.
It can be seen from Map 3.9 that there are a significant number of formal pitches with
potential risk to the long term future within the area, these are described later in this
section.
3.78.
Therefore in terms of pitch provision it is considered that following are available and
suitable for long term community use:
Adult
Openshaw Park
Junior
1
Mini
1
STP
1
1
Millennium Green
1
Hewlett Johnson Playing
fields
Ten Acre Sports Ground
1
Nicholas Varley
Community School
Nichols College
1
King George V
1
Gorton Park
1
1
Wright Robinson
6
1
2
Total
12
4
5
1
1
1
1
3.79.
In considering the supply of playing pitches it is important to note that Nicholls
College, King George V, Gorton Park and Wright Robinson are located outside the
NEM area. In addition it has been highlighted that 44% of NEM clubs (70% of adult
teams) play at either Melland Playing Fields or Annie Lee Park.
3.80.
Further analysis of the playing pitch provision utilising the playing pitch methodology
identifies that:
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 31
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION

the ratio of pitches to adults in the NEM area is 1:1,370 compared to an average
for England of 1:989.

five adult and 11 junior football teams play in the NEM area with a further five
adult and eight junior football teams considered to be drawing membership from
the catchment area

low Team Generation Rates for football. No cricket, hockey or rugby teams based
in the area. A number of teams are being established in the area and a finding
difficulty in finding a suitable facility indicating latent demand within the area

the current supply of adult pitches meets the current demand. This assumes good
quality pitches capable of 2 games per week.

there is a shortfall of 5 junior pitches

there is no spare capacity to meet latent demand, to re-scheduled games or allow
for training

there are a number of pitches that are unused due to limited access and poor
condition. It is acknowledged that not all these pitches are required to meet
demand and some are surplus to requirements.

a large number of teams have to travel to access facilities.
3.81.
It is important to recognise that there are a number of difficulties in applying the
Playing Pitch Methodology to a relatively small catchment area due to the access
and availability of neighbouring facilities. Manchester City Council is currently
undertaking a city wide playing pitch strategy which will provide a strategic overview
of pitch facilities.
3.82.
This study however, identifies a shortfall in pitches in the NEM area, particularly for
junior football and mini soccer. The areas of NEM with the greatest shortfall include
Miles Platting / Ancoats, Clayton and Beswick .
Opportunities
3.83.
Opportunities identified in NEM include the following:
Medlock Valley High School
3.84.
The community use of the current facilities are not maximised due to the poor
condition of the grass pitches and shale ATP. Initial site analysis has indicated that
site contamination is limiting the development potential of the site.
Miles Platting Pool
3.85.
The potential to incorporate the Miles Platting Pools into a new Joint Service building
and retain smaller scale swimming provision. While it has been identified that there is
a limited strategic case for retaining the pools following the reopening of Harpurhey
Pools opportunities to maintain a small scale community provision should be
explored.
St Peter’s RC High School
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 32
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
3.86.
The sports hall, junior grass football pitch, IT suite and associated changing facilities
are independent from the main school building and present an opportunity to be
retained as a community sports facility.
St Willibrods RC Primary School / Dreyfus Memorial Park
3.87.
Currently facilities include a junior grass pitch and a shale ATP not used due to their
poor condition. School facilities are adjoining Dreyfus Memorial Park and provide the
opportunity to develop a mini soccer centre. However initial site investigations
indicate site contamination issues.
Higher Openshaw Community School
3.88.
The facility is currently used by Openshaw Youth for league football matches
opportunities have been identified to increase the range of facilities and funding has
been applied for to develop a floodlit MUGA.
Seymour Road County Primary School
3.89.
The school currently has shale ATP with no community use due to the poor quality of
the facility.
St Brigid’s RC Primary School
3.90.
The school currently has shale ATP with no community use due to the poor quality of
the facility.
Nichols Sixth Form College
3.91.
A Football Foundation funding application has been submitted to develop a full sized
synthetic turf pitch and drainage improvements to the grass pitch.
Wright Robinson Sports College
3.92.
The sports college is currently being redeveloped through a PFI bid. As part of the
redevelopment the college will have a new sports hall, swimming pool and
improvements to the remaining grass pitches. This will be supported by the synthetic
grass pitch and five tennis courts. Following the redevelopment of the school the
sports facilities will provide a significant community facility.
Ashbury County Primary School
3.93.
Following the development of a new primary school in Beswick the Ashbury Primary
School, and Bank Meadow Primary School will be closing and the area redeveloped.
As part of the process it has been agreed that the school playing fields, currently
used by the community will continue to be available for community use until
alternative provision is made available in the new school.
Medlock Valley / Philips Park
3.94.
The redevelopment of the Medlock Valley and in particularly Philips Park is subject to
separate detailed study. These provide significant opportunities to improve the range
of community facilities.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 33
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
New primary school in Beswick
3.95.
The development of a new primary school in Beswick, to replace Ashbury County
Primary School and Bank Meadow County Primary School provides a significant
opportunity to provide a range of community facilities in Beswick.
New secondary school in Beswick
3.96.
Long term proposals have been identified to provide a new secondary school in
Beswick as part of the wider redevelopment of the area. Should these proposals be
developed further they present an opportunity to meet a wider range of community
needs.
Openshaw Community Centre
3.97.
There is potential to open a new community centre in the shopping area of Ashton
Old Road, Openshaw to meet an identified need for community facilities in
Openshaw.
New Islington
3.98.
While at the early stages these plan indicate the potential to include a range of
community facilities as part of the redevelopment. These include:

linking the Rochdale and Ashton Canal and provision of watersports facility

a new primary school to incorporate playing fields and indoor sports / community
facilities.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 34
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
0
Sites in areas of potential development
Map 3.7
Sites in areas of potential development
Manchester Business
Business Park
Park
Manchester
Business
Park
North
North
North Manchester
125
Bank
Bank
Bank Street
Street
Street
Street
Bank
Bank
Bank
Street
Miles
Miles
Miles Platting
Platting
Platting
Platting
Miles
Miles
Miles
Platting
Clayton
Clayton
Clayton
Urban Village
Village
Urban
Village
Ancoats
Ancoats
Ancoats Urban
Ashton
Ashton
Canal
Canal
Corridor/Sportscity
Corridor/Sportscity
Ashton
Canal
Corridor/Sportscity
Ashton
Ashton Canal
Canal Corridor/Sportscity
Corridor/Sportscity
Cardroom
Cardroom
Cardroom Estate
Estate
Estate
Estate
Cardroom
Cardroom
Cardroom
Estate
188
New Road
Road
New
Road
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton New
258
Besw
Besw
Besw
ick
ick
Besw
Besw
Beswick
ick
ick
ick
91
Medlock Valley
Valley
Medlock
Valley
Low
Low
Lower
er
er Medlock
92
130
Openshaw
Openshaw
Openshaw West
West
West
131
High
High
High Legh
Legh
Legh
Legh
High
High
High
Legh
184
100
Street
Street
Toxteth
Toxteth
Toxteth Street
Old Road
Road South
South
Old
Road
South
Ashton
Ashton
Ashton Old
Street
Street
Delamere/Ogden
Delamere/Ogden
Delamere/Ogden Street
3.99.
The following sites have been identified in areas of potential development:
Ashbury County Primary School, Bank Meadow County Primary School
3.100. Both the Ashbury and Bank Meadow County Primary Schools will be closing and
relocating to the new primary school in Beswick. The grass football pitch at Ashbury
Primary school is currently being used by a community based football club and while
a temporary agreement is in place to secure the community use this pitch will be lost
in the redevelopment.
3.101. While the closure of the primary schools will result in the loss of a community
resource the new primary school will include a range of high quality facilities with
secured community use.
Rylance Street Playing Fields / David Lewis Playing Fields
3.102. Both of the sites have been identified for redevelopment which will result in the loss
of 3 football pitches. While the pitches have not been used for a number of years due
to their condition the redevelopment of the site will result in the permanent loss of the
pitches.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 35
SECTION THREE: CURRENT POSITION
St Peters RC High School
3.103. The St Peter’s High School is identified as a potential opportunity. Following the
closure of the school the site will be redeveloped, while the sports facilities present a
potential opportunity identified earlier it is also identified that the long term future is
uncertain. If it is not possible to secure the viability of the sports facilities it is
proposed that the site will be redeveloped as part of the whole school site resulting in
the loss of a potentially valuable community facility in Openshaw.
Miles Platting Pools
3.104. As has been indicated earlier the Miles Platting Pools are scheduled to be closed
following the reopening of Harpurhey Pools. While user levels at the pool are
relatively low this will result in the loss of a community facility from Miles Platting.
Crossley House Youth Centre and Ardwick Youth Centre
3.105. In addition to both facilities being identified in a development areas the long term
future of the buildings are considered to be uncertain due to the poor condition of the
facilities. While no plans are currently in place to close the centres the loss of either
facility would present a significant loss in community facilities as no alternative
facilities have been identified in the NEM area for the current organisation using the
facilities.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 36
SECTION 4
SPORT BY SPORT ANALYSIS
SECTION FOUR: SPORT BY SPORT ANALYSIS
Strategic Framework
4.1.
In order to identify the requirements for sport and leisure facilities in East
Manchester, it is important to understand the sports development initiatives that are
ongoing or are planned for the forthcoming years.
4.2.
This section therefore outlines current initiatives, identifies those facilities that are
used to enable this sports development work to take place and identifies any gaps in
provision.
4.3.
It is also important to understand how local activities and programmes support,
deliver to and complement the city wide strategic sports policy and strategy. The
cornerstone of the structure is city wide sports-specific development, linking to the
Local Education Authority service districts, delivered in a strategic north, central/east,
south geographical basis.
4.4.
The development of sports and leisure programmes within East Manchester should
form a vital part in the city’s overall strategic vision and objectives for the
development of sport city wide. At present seven sports are in the process of writing
their city wide five year development plans, these are as follows: athletics,
badminton, basketball, cycling, netball, squash, and tennis.
4.5.
In addition there are a number of factors that can be identified which will impact
significantly upon the successful delivery of sport and recreation services to the
communities of East Manchester. These include:





Sports Policy 1 and 2
Multi agency approach and partnership working arrangements
Future Structure for the Delivery of Sport and Active Recreation in Manchester
The Manchester Sports Development Model
Best Value Review of Sports Development
Community Use Plan – Sportcity
Procurement of Future Funding.
Manchester Leisure Sports Policy 1 and 2
4.6.
This provides a strategic city framework for the development and delivery of sport
and active recreation in Manchester. The policy sets out an integrated service
provision for facilities, events and programmes, with a strategic framework approach,
that links sports-specific development with cross-cutting thematic social agendas
such as crime and disorder, health, inclusion and regeneration.
Multi – Agency Approach and Partnership Working Arrangements
4.7.
Manchester recognises that there is a mixed economy of provision that delivers sport
and active recreation within the United Kingdom.
4.8.
Accordingly, Manchester has adopted a strategic approach to the development of its
sport and leisure services which has led to the successful establishment of a model
to deliver both its sporting and social objectives. The fundamental principle of this
strategy is to work proactively within this multi-agency environment to develop and
establish sustainable partnership working arrangements with appropriate agencies.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION FOUR: SPORT BY SPORT ANALYSIS
Future Structure for the Delivery of Sport and Active Recreation in Manchester
4.9.
Manchester Leisure Sports Development is currently putting together a structure for
the strategic and co-ordinated development of sport in the city for the next five year
period.
4.10.
The structure utilises multi-agency and partnership working arrangements, for
example primary and secondary schools and the three specialist sports colleges.
The major focus for this structure is the strategic development of and linkages
between school sport and community club sport. For the east and central parts of
Manchester, Wright Robinson Sports College is the current proposed host for the
community sports development team working in this area.
The Manchester Sports Development Model
4.11.
This model has developed over the last five years and identifies a unique urban
model for sports development. The model encompasses a focal City of Manchester
Club which is linked to a focal fit for purpose sports facility – for example, the City of
Manchester Basketball Club based at the Amaechi Basketball Centre in Whalley
Range.
4.12.
In addition to the focal club activity the model identifies the need for a strategic
network of both school and community clubs that cater for the local sports needs of
their communities, but which also deliver to and support, sustainable city wide focal
club development.
Best Value Review of Sports Development
4.13.
Manchester Leisure Sports Development undertook its Best Value review during
2001. Two of the major improvement objectives identified within that Review are to
develop and promote increased community access to quality programmes city wide
and to improve sports club and community access to appropriate facilities.
Community Use Plan – Sportcity
4.14.
The Community Use Plan envisages that the Sportcity facilities will provide a catalyst
for developing sustainable community and health partnerships in and around the
area for local people; and that Sportcity will provide a focus for regional and city wide
sports development activities.
4.15.
A partnership has been established to ensure wider community access to Sportcity
and recognises the significant potential of Sportcity to deliver community
programmes at both a local and city wide level.
Procurement of Future Funding
4.16.
The delivery of sports development in Manchester aims to provide comprehensive
service provision using both sports-specific and community sports structures to
deliver cross cutting thematic objectives.
4.17.
The success of such programmes has to date relied strongly upon the availability of
external funding opportunities being levered in to enhance and develop upon
Manchester Leisure’s mainstream resources. The continued availability of such
funding opportunities will be a prerequisite if long term, sustainable development is to
be achieved.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION FOUR: SPORT BY SPORT ANALYSIS
4.18.
There will, therefore, have to be a recognition from all potential partner agencies to
support cross departmental / multi agency delivery of activities. This is of particular
importance with regard to the provision of physical activity to support the health
agenda.
Sport by Sport Analysis
Athletics
4.19.
Within NEM, the focus for athletics development is the facilities at Sportcity. These
facilities include an indoor track and field facility. The outdoor facilities are currently
being re-developed and will provide seating for 6,000 people. This re-development
will considerably expand the scope of potential use at the site and will enable a full
programme of outdoor athletics to take place.
4.20.
The city wide athletics programme is delivered on the south and the north of the city
at two facilities – significantly at Wythenshawe Park Athletics Track (south) and
Boggart Hole Clough Athletics Track (north). Both facilities have a community club
based at it – Sale Harriers Manchester at Wythenshawe and Salford Harriers and
Blackley Ladies at Boggart. The community club base in the south and its links to
Wythenshawe and South Manchester schools is nationally recognised as a model of
good practice.
4.21.
Although Sale Harriers Manchester has a presence at the Centre there is still a need
to develop much more fully the community club structural programmes both at the
Centre and the links between these programmes and school-based activity –
currently after-school clubs at twelve primary schools delivered in six-week blocks.
4.22.
The key issues relating the athletics development are related to the need for
equipment for schools e.g. small hurdles, high jump beds and the availability of
coaches. Facilities needs for athletics are met in the NEM area.
4.23.
There are a number of opportunities to develop and extend the range of long
distance running and cross country training activities linking to Philips Park, Clayton
Vale and Canal footpaths.
Badminton
4.24.
Badminton is now designated as a sport that is to be developed on a proactive basis
i.e. Manchester Leisure has committed resources from within its approved
mainstream revenue budget for the development of the sport. This has resulted due
to the establishment of a partnership between Manchester Leisure and the
Badminton Association of England. Consequently a full-time dedicated Badminton
Development Officer has now been appointed.
4.25.
Currently, badminton development within the city is very poor – evidenced by:
4.26.

Low school-based participation

Poor club infrastructure
While activity levels are low in badminton there are a number of facilities that may be
utilised to support badminton development focused in the courts at the Velodrome.
The aim of a city wide sports development plan for badminton, will impact upon NEM,
providing opportunities for local people to participate whether recreationally and/or
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 39
SECTION FOUR: SPORT BY SPORT ANALYSIS
competitively accessing both local and city wide opportunities linked to school, club,
casual or structured activity integrated with a competition/events programme.
Basketball
4.27.
The city wide focus for the development of basketball is the Amaechi Basketball
Centre in Whalley Range. The majority of basketball development within NEM is
focused at the Velodrome which is the base for the community club, namely
Manchester Basketball Club. There are two basketball courts available in the centre
of the track which is also marked for Netball.
4.28.
City wide basketball development targets introduction and basic participation at
primary school level. This is supported by after-school satellite clubs based in sports
halls with the aim of providing accessible pathways to participate in community club
activity.
4.29.
Basketball is self generated in secondary schools in years 7 and 8 due to interest
stimulated from play in primary schools. However, little organised basketball is
played in secondary schools until year 9. This is the weakest link in the sports
development continuum as support from secondary schools is vital to ensure interest
and activity is maintained throughout.
4.30.
Basketball development within NEM should link with and support city wide provision.
The primary facilities used for basketball within NEM are:
4.31.

outdoor basketball posts at all twelve primary schools

the Velodrome (community based club)

Belle Vue
There are several issues regarding basketball development that are common to both
city wide development and to development within NEM.

Basketball is primarily an indoor sport, but primary schools do
not have adequate indoor facilities

Limited access to the courts at the Velodrome and Belle Vue
due to high demand for facilities

Poor infrastructure of volunteers and coaches

Transportation of participants from local satellite centre to focal
city wide centre.
Cycling
4.32.
The Velodrome is the national cycling (track) centre for the United Kingdom and is
the home of the national governing body, the British Cycling Federation. The
Manchester Velodrome is Britain’s only indoor Olympic cycle track: however, it is
open to everyone to use regardless of their level of ability. Track sessions for
beginners are available with all equipment included at reduced rates for school,
college and university student groups.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION FOUR: SPORT BY SPORT ANALYSIS
4.33.
The Velodrome is the focal point for city wide track cycling development in
Manchester. Eastlands Velo has been the most substantial community club based at
the Velodrome, providing children and young people with a range of varied cycling
opportunities, accessing top quality facilities. The club has been successful in
developing opportunities for cycling, however the club are now operating close to
capacity and require additional time at the Velodrome or alternative facilities /
disciplines in order to expand further.
4.34.
The sports development plan for cycling, contained in Sports Policy One, identified
the need to establish strategic satellite clubs, located at appropriate athletics track
facilities, to stimulate activities on a more local level and support the development
programmes delivered at the Velodrome.
4.35.
Similarly, dedicated road racing and off-road facilities were identified for strategic
development on a city wide basis, with Philips Park and Clayton being the preferred
option for the central/east area of the city. The proposal would create a road-race
circuit of one kilometre in length, with a minimum width of five metres, preferably
located within a fenced area and with access to changing and showering facilities.
Football
4.36.
Manchester Leisure has recently appointed a Football Development Officer and
Refugee Football Development Officer. The Football Development Officer has a city
wide remit and will establish appropriate sustainable programmes to support, and
deliver to, both local and national strategies, including:

mini soccer

women and girls

club development

school development

coach education and training

equity

social inclusion
4.37.
The Refugee Football Development post is a unique twelve month project targeting
asylum seekers and refugees with the aim of breaking down social exclusion barriers
by working with identified groups and individuals within the refugees support network.
The aim of the project is to provide recreational football opportunities and competitive
football opportunities leading to sustainable club based structures and integration into
mainstream provision. In addition, other social objectives will be supported, in
particular education and health inequalities.
4.38.
While there is a large refugee population and several asylum seeker organisations in
East Manchester and, therefore, there is potential to widen the refugee development
programme, within the area, the current focus of the pilot programme is clearly within
the Hulme, Longsight and Moss Side areas of the city. This is due to the funding and
work programme arrangements for the post. Any significant development
programmes to reach other parts of the city including NEM, could only be possible
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 41
SECTION FOUR: SPORT BY SPORT ANALYSIS
with the successful procurement of other additional funding to deliver such
development programmes.
4.39.
While football is popular and active in primary schools the majority of developmental
work is based around community clubs. The development of football is focused at
mini and junior level (8 – 16 years old) with an emphasis on promoting girls football.
4.40.
The primary facilities used for football are:

primary school grass pitches

community grass football pitches, e.g. Hewlett Johnson, Openshaw Park

MUGAs, e.g. St Barnabas primary school.
4.41.
Demand for grass football pitches varies in the NEM area. There appears to be
sufficient senior football pitches to meet current demand, however there is no spare
capacity to meet future demand or flexibility to overcome the problems of overuse
through training and competition use.
4.42.
In contrast there appears to be a shortage of junior and mini soccer facilities and
limited access to good quality training or casual play areas.
4.43.
Several needs have been identified for football in NEM which include limited access
for mini and junior grass pitches, limited access to training facilities and MUGAs, no
indoor training areas and limited opportunities for 5-a-side football.
Hockey
4.44.
The city wide strategy for the development of hockey focuses on both club and
school based activity.
4.45.
There are no hockey clubs in the NEM area however there are three clubs based at
Belle Vue Regional Hockey and Sports Centre. The under 18s and Under 16s
English Institute of Sport programme is also based at Belle Vue. The hockey clubs
based here are:

City of Manchester Hockey Club

Manchester Junior Hockey Club

Cheetham & Heywood Hockey Club.
4.46.
Belle Vue is an international standard facility providing 2 water based Synthetic Turf
Pitches (STPs). Other STPs exist at Trinity High School , Parrswood High School
and Manchester High School for Girls, potential also exists for an STP at Our Ladies
High School
4.47.
Organisation of the sport appears to be the problem rather than facility provision
however a need was expressed for indoor halls for hockey. Hockey can be played in
a normal sports hall which has a skirting board around the edge. There is also
potential for playground markings to assist the development of hockey within schools
4.48.
Using existing facilities better, e.g. playgrounds, MUGAs, rather than providing new
ones appears to be the key opportunity for hockey development. The key barriers
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SECTION FOUR: SPORT BY SPORT ANALYSIS
relate to getting volunteers and coaches and the governing body structure.
Netball
4.49.
The city wide strategy for the development of netball is under pinned by the
establishment of community clubs at five sites. These five sites are high schools so
that direct links can be forged with both the high schools and their feeder cluster
primaries.
4.50.
Within the East Manchester catchment area, the community club is Dominoes, which
is based at St. Peter’s RC High School. The Club uses facilities available at the
adjacent Belle Vue Leisure Centre. Primary schools activity feed into high school
activity which feeds to sustainable club activity with Dominoes.
4.51.
Within East Manchester, netball development is delivered at St. Brigid’s primary
school in Beswick and other primary schools. The number of participants in
development courses has doubled this year with attendees now reaching forty-five
people per session. As a consequence of this, the membership of Dominoes has
increased. To cater for this the Club is currently ensuring that its coaching and
volunteering structure is being improved.
4.52.
Facilities available for netball use in the East Manchester area include two indoor
courts at the Velodrome, St. Peters High School (Openshaw site), primary schools
and the twelve outdoor courts at the Velodrome.
4.53.
There is the potential for the establishment of another community club, to deliver
more focused netball activities for the communities of NEM based at the Velodrome.
It is believed that the facilities available at the Velodrome would be able to
accommodate the development of a community netball club based there.
4.54.
There is potential for a second club to be based at the Velodrome, this would then
serve the East Manchester area.
Squash
4.55.
The National Squash Centre at Sportcity is the focus for all squash in the NEM area
however there is no community club based here. The National Squash Centre
provides six permanent singles courts, which can be converted into four doubles
courts, and one glass exhibition court.
4.56.
The courts at the Centre are programmed to enable use by the national governing
body (the Squash Rackets Association), Sports Development and casual pay and
play. Sports Development programmes currently target afternoon and immediate
post-school sessions and intermediate level activity independent of school structures.
The schools targeted are usually those that are within a mile radius of the squash
facility. Saturday sessions are also held, however, this provision is impacted by
events and competitions taking place.
4.57.
The major development issue for the provision of squash within East Manchester is
the need to establish a sustainable club and structure based at the National Squash
Centre.
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SECTION FOUR: SPORT BY SPORT ANALYSIS
Tennis
4.58.
Manchester Leisure has just appointed a dedicated, full-time Tennis Development
Officer in partnership with the Lawn Tennis Association. The role of that Officer will
be twofold:

to continue to maintain and develop existing city wide provision

to develop a programme of sustainable tennis programmes and activities
focusing upon the Indoor Tennis Centre at Sportcity, including the
establishment of a community club based at the Centre.
4.59.
To assist this objective, Wright Robinson Sports College is identified as a potential
satellite feeder club to Sportcity. Should future demand be identified and the existing
court provision at Medlock Valley special needs high school is upgraded, then there
is potential for another satellite feeder club to be established there to support the club
activities at the Indoor Tennis Centre.
4.60.
Tennis activity that is currently happening within NEM includes casual recreational
use in parks and school-based play. Both activities are predominantly outdoor play
as there are little appropriate indoor facilities available other than the Indoor Tennis
Centre. School tennis is played on various surfaces with fold-up nets and ideally
playground court markings.
4.61.
The current demand for tennis is not primarily facility based as accessing existing
facilities is not a significant problem. The two major challenges for the successful
development of tennis in East Manchester are:

the establishment of a sustainable community club based at the Tennis
Centre, both for local people within NEM; for clubs and individuals in the
wider eastern and northern areas of the city, thus developing activity across
all sections of the sports continuum, and to ensure a direct and accessible
pathway between school activity and the activities at Sportcity.

the development of enough appropriately trained and quality-assured
coaches. The provision of such personnel is a vital ingredient to ensure the
effective delivery of both centre-based and outreach programmes.
Rugby
4.62.
Rugby is a sport designated for pro active development however there is no rugby
club based in NEM. The nearest rugby union club is Aldwinians Rugby Club based
just over the border in Tameside. At present Aldwineans is acting as an exit club for
the rugby that takes place in NEM.
4.63.
The focus of rugby development is in primary schools and forming links with
secondary schools. The primary school clusters feed into development at secondary
schools which in turn feeds into the Aldwineans.
4.64.
The development of a tag rugby satellite club, potentially based at Wright Robinson,
is identified as a priority within the NEM area. While the formation of a satellite club
is identified it is acknowledged that this will continue to feed into the nearest
community club to NEM, namely Aldwinians.
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SECTION FOUR: SPORT BY SPORT ANALYSIS
4.65.
Tag rugby is played in primary schools. This can be played on any surface of any
size, the only requirement is a need for open space, this could potentially link in with
playground markings. Tag rugby can be done indoors if enough space is available
however this would require a large sports hall.
Boxing
4.66.
Boxing in East Manchester is strong with relatively high levels of activity in both
competitive boxing and general participation. There are three clubs based in the
area, namely:

Ardwick Boxing Club, Palmerston Street Youth Club

Northside Boxing Club, Clayton

Shannon’s Boxing Club, Crossley House Youth Club.
4.67.
Facilities used by two of the clubs (Crossley House and Ardwick Boxing Club) are in
poor condition. The Palmerston Street Youth Club building is in a very poor state and
at present there is nowhere for the club to relocate. Crossley House Boxing Club is
run as a private business, this building is also in poor condition with nowhere
identified for it to relocate. The possible relocation of these clubs in the future needs
to be taken into consideration.
4.68.
Northside Boxing Club has its own building, the future of which is secure however the
club is expanding which will increase the demand for more space in the future. The
clubs has strong links with local youth clubs, EAZ non attender programmes and
YOT and as such the club delivers activities to a number of hard to reach groups
including young men.
Cricket
4.69.
Newton Heath Cricket Club is based just outside the NEM area. Other clubs nearby
include Longsight, Blackley and Cheetham Hill and Woodhouses CC in Tameside. All
cricket clubs have their own facilities. Newton Heath Cricket Club has both adult and
junior teams and any development in NEM would be directed towards this club.
4.70.
Kwik cricket is played in primary schools which feeds in to inter cricket and full cricket
at secondary schools. Secondary school cricket then feeds into the club structure.
4.71.
Other cricket facilities in and around NEM include a pitch at Wright Robinson Sports
College. Opportunities exist to develop artificial cricket pitches in parks however
Philips Park and Hewlett Johnson are the only parks in NEM with enough space to
accommodate an artificial pitch, if there is such demand.
4.72.
Improved playground markings in schools has been identified as beneficial for cricket
development.
Martial Arts
4.73.
There are several martial arts clubs within East Manchester area include:

Manchester Eagle Martial Arts
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SECTION FOUR: SPORT BY SPORT ANALYSIS
4.74.

Salah Martial Arts Centre

Shuku Tora Karate-Do.
Participation rates in martial arts are high in the NEM area particularly amongst
young men. Martial arts provides a diversionary activity with high levels of
participation in this age group contributing towards reducing wider crime and anti
social behaviour.
The facilities used by these clubs are of mixed quality with a number of the clubs
using facilities in very poor condition. The possible relocation of these clubs in the
future needs to be taken into consideration.
Crown Green Bowling
4.75.
There are three crown green bowling greens in East Manchester located within
Parks. These include:

Philips Park

Clayton Park

Delamere Park.
4.76.
The bowling greens provide a base for three bowling clubs with participation rates in
bowling high, particularly amongst older sections of the community. However the
facilities used by these clubs are of mixed quality. While the bowling greens are
considered to be of good quality the provision of ancillary facilities, eg toilets,
changing rooms are considered poor identifying the need for investment to improve
the range and quality of facilities available.
4.77.
It is important that the development of bowling facilities should be considered within
the wider development of parks facilities highlighted below.
Parks
4.78.
There are more than 130 parks throughout Manchester with 12 parks considered to
be serving the NEM area. Within each park there are a wide range of sporting
facilities to choose from, including athletics, cycling, golf, bowls, football, tennis,
angling and sailing as well as a range of greenery and plant life. Manchester’s parks
are also an all-the-year-round focal point for community activity and events where
annual firework and bonfire extravaganzas, family fun days, area-based festivals and
seasonal funfairs take place.
4.79.
There are three bowling greens located within parks serving the NEM area. These
are well used however the quality of ancillary facilities, eg changing rooms, toilets is
considered very poor.
4.80.
Manchester City Council, with a range of partners including Groundwork Manchester,
is responsible for developing any new open space areas and parks in the City
through community involvement and the neighbourhood planning process. The parks
offer a range of activities however it has been highlighted that in the past few years
there has been a particular demand for children’s play areas and kick about areas.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION FOUR: SPORT BY SPORT ANALYSIS
4.81.
Much investment has been made in parks in recent years which have resulted in
good quality amenities. Future maintenance of the parks must be kept to a high
standard to maintain this quality.
4.82.
It is important to note however, that it is not possible to meet all the demand for
additional local parks and play areas. New facilities must take account of the City
Council’s asset management plan to consider the impact a new facility would have
on the existing stock of facilities and how it would be managed and maintained in
future years.
Open Space/ Informal recreation areas
4.83.
A major change in the planning policy guidance, Planning for Open Space Sport and
Recreation (PPG 17) is the requirement for local authority decisions regarding open
space to be informed by local needs assessments and an audit of existing provision.
Such audits should incorporate qualitative, quantitative and accessibility
considerations as well as the overall non-monetary value of the land including the
level of use.
4.84.
Public open space cuts across many people’s lives and is a source of local concern
for many varying reasons:

issues like anti-social behaviour, litter and dog fouling, graffiti and conditions of
parks and play areas impacts greatly on the quality of people’s daily lives

design, management and maintenance of open spaces impacts directly on
perceptions of safety and actual public usage

local publicly accessible open space is often worse for people already suffering
from other forms of deprivation

the involvement of local people and partnership working is crucial to getting the
right solutions.
4.85.
Public open space is also at the heart of people’s daily lives. In fact MORI surveys
repeatedly show concern in cleanliness, petty crime and vandalism.
4.86.
The theme of public open space fits shared priorities of national and local
government – crime, health and social inclusion. It impacts on the social
environment, physical environment and economic environment as shown in Figure
4.1 below:
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SECTION FOUR: SPORT BY SPORT ANALYSIS
4.87.
The Government recognises through its publication of ‘Our Towns and Cities: The
Future Delivering an Urban Renaissance’ that there is an overwhelming need to
develop a vision for the future of parks and open spaces and that there is a need to
improve information on quality and quantity of parks and open spaces and the way
they are used and maintained.
4.88.
Informal recreation areas that serve the NEM area include:

Medlock Valley

Clayton Vale

Ashton Canal corridor

Rochdale Canal Corridor.
4.89.
Each of these areas is made up of a variety of parks, open spaces, gardens and built
facilities. Within NEM there appears to be limited open space provision/ informal
areas within Miles Platting and Ancoats.
4.90.
Opportunities for informal outdoor recreation, walking, running, cycling, mountain
biking are provided primarily through the parks, roads and canal corridors. The
recently produced Medlock Valley Strategic Action Plan highlights that the current
facilities are being underutilised and there is significant potential to increase the
range of opportunities for informal recreation in the NEM.
4.91.
The potential developments within New Islington through the linking of the Ashton
and Rochdale canals and form a canal basin offers significant potential to provide a
range of formal and informal water based activities.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION 5
IMPLICATIONS FOR SPORT AND RECREATION
SECTION FIVE: IMPLICATIONS FOR SPORT AND RECREATION
Implications for Sport and Recreation
5.1.
In considering the implications for sport and recreation it is important to recognise the
value of sport and active recreation on all sections of the community. In developing
sport and recreational opportunities it is important to consider and support the
diversity within the NEM area and promote equality of opportunity to all sections of
the community.
Role of Sports Development
5.2.
Sports Development provides a focused sustainable city wide infrastructure of
defined pathways and opportunities. This strategy report recognises that the
development of a range of sports and recreation facilities in NEM must be
underpinned by both the needs of the community and strong sports development
principles that are consistent with and complement city wide provision.
5.3.
Future sports development strategic programmes will clearly focus upon establishing
strong links to support school-based (curricular and extra-curricular) participation in
sport and community club-based participation. The provision of appropriate
opportunities will be strategically managed and delivered both locally and city wide,
and will ensure that there are clear and accessible pathways of opportunity for young
people to pass from school-based activity to community club-based activity, thus
encouraging lifelong participation. Resources to put city wide structures in place are
currently in the process of being applied for.
5.4.
While it is recognised that sports development structures are being refined to ensure
stronger direct links between school and club sporting opportunities, it is also
recognised that one of the main barriers that hinders the potential for the
development of sport in NEM is the limited community club structure to link to school
sports development provision. The factors that currently limit the development of a
community club structure include:

small number of local volunteers, coaches and administrators to support a
community club structure

limited access to appropriate facilities

transport to and from sessions.
5.5.
There is therefore an identified gap in the provision and development of community
based sports clubs. Without the long-term sustainable development of such clubs
then the linkage between school based activity and club-based sporting activity will
not come to fruition.
5.6.
The challenge for the sports development provision in NEM will be to encourage and
support this community club development. It is suggested that this is a long-term
development objective that will be achieved by ensuring that the delivery of sports
development programmes and structures in NEM are fully integrated with strategic
city wide provision.
Role of Schools
5.7.
Schools provide a central role within local communities and contain a range of
facilities and there has been significant recent investment in the improvement of
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SECTION FIVE: IMPLICATIONS FOR SPORT AND RECREATION
playground facilities, ICT / community facilities, indoor one court sports hall and
floodlight MUGA at the Ravensbury County Primary School. This is further supported
by the development of the Ashbury Meadow Primary School in Beswick to
incorporate secured community use.
5.8.
While schools are therefore central to local communities, and form the basis of much
of the sports development work, it is clear that the usage of these facilities by
community organisations is varied resulting in the potential loss of a valuable
community resource.
5.9.
There are a number of reasons why school facilities are not utilised to their full
potential. These include:
5.10.

the increased cost of maintenance

higher potential threat of vandalism

the inability to access sports facilities / meeting rooms independently from the
rest of the school

the staffing implications of increasing the opening hours of the school.
While these limitations are recognised school facilities are considered to play a
central role in the future development of community facilities.
Role of Parks and Open Space
5.11.
There has been significant investment in the improvement of parks and areas of
open space in the NEM area. This has been supported by the Medlock Valley
Strategic Action Plan clearly setting out the way forward in terms of increasing
access, developing the range of facilities and maximising the potential for community
use.
5.12.
Parks and open space play an essential role in providing informal recreational
opportunities and contributing to improving the quality of life for local communities.
5.13.
Much investment has been made in parks in recent years which have resulted in
good quality amenities. Future maintenance of the parks must be kept to a high
standard to maintain this quality. Manchester City Council is responsible for the long
term repair and maintenance of parks and open spaces and it is essential, if the role
of parks and open spaces is to be maintained and maximised, that future park and
open space development is supported by a commitment to ongoing maintenance
requirements.
5.14.
Friends of the Park groups provide a vital role in maximising the potential of the parks
and should be supported. The development of the Friends of the Parks groups have
a valuable role to play in developing activities, fund raising and maximising
community involvement and ownership.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION 6
THE WAY FORWARD
SECTION SIX: THE WAY FORWARD
The Way Forward
Overview
6.1.
To ensure that sport, leisure and high quality open space are incorporated into the
neighbourhood planning process and that initiatives are sustainable within the NEM
area it is important that account is taken of the city wide provision for sport and
recreation. The sustainable development of programmes and initiatives within the
NEM area will be maximised if linked to, and supporting, city wide development.
6.2.
In considering the recommendations of the future development of sport and
recreation in NEM it is essential to recognise two key principles underlying all of the
recommendations.
Principle One
In developing sport and recreational opportunities it is important to consider
and support the diversity within the NEM area and promote equality of
opportunity to all sections of the community especially identified target groups
where participation rates are lower eg women and girls, people with disabilities
and older people.
Principle Two
All development, facility or activity based, must clearly demonstrate long term
sustainability based on identified local needs and where appropriate through
robust club structures.
Recommendations

That all facility development is based on meeting an identified
community need and on complementing recognised sports
development principles. The provision of facilities should, therefore
positively link to primary school, secondary school, sports college,
and community club pathways.

Where appropriate to recognise city wide leisure and education
structures as a key partner in the delivery of development of sport in
NEM.

To recognise Sportcity as the focal centre for athletics, basketball,
cycling, squash and tennis development within NEM and support the
existing sports clubs based at Sportcity. All development initiatives
to link into primary and secondary school cluster structures.

To maximise the opportunities for developing formal competitive
sporting opportunities for cross country and mountain biking, linked
to Philips Park and Clayton Vale, in partnership with the Velodrome
and athletics facilities at Sportcity
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SECTION SIX: THE WAY FORWARD

To develop a sustainable community club based at the City of
Manchester Tennis Centre

To develop a sustainable community club based at the National
Squash Centre

To develop sustainable senior and junior clubs in badminton and
netball at the Velodrome

To develop and establish a sustainable women’s and girls basketball
club at the Velodrome building on the existing club

To develop a co-ordinated Coach Education and Training
Programme targeted at local people to directly assist in the building
of a sustainable infrastructure of coaches, officials, volunteers with
the long-term objective of supporting the development of sustainable
community sports clubs within NEM

To ensure that human, physical and financial resources are available
to facilitate appropriate sports development activity

To ensure that fully integrated development – including facilities,
programmes and events is delivered.
Swimming Pools
6.3.
In terms of swimming provision it is considered that on the wider strategic level there
is sufficient swimming provision to serve the communities within NEM.
Recommendations

That there is sufficient swimming pool provision at a strategic level
serving the NEM area following the redevelopment of Harpurhey
Pools and the pool at Wright Robinson Sports College

Opportunities should be investigated to retain small scale swimming
provision within the Miles Platting Pools to meet the needs of the
Miles Platting community as part of the development of a new Joint
Service Building

To provide opportunities to address transport difficulties and improve
access to facilities, eg the Activity Bus project.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION SIX: THE WAY FORWARD
Sports Halls
6.4.
Access to dedicated sports hall provision within the NEM area is limited. Access to
indoor sports hall provision has been highlighted as one of the primary factors limiting
the potential for developing a community club structure and also the low participation
rates for adults.
6.5.
Research has highlighted that there is an identified need for access to indoor sports
hall provision on two levels. These include:

large (4 court sports hall) to meet the needs of basketball, badminton, netball,
football, Tag rugby

smaller community halls (1 or 2 court halls) to meet the needs of martial arts,
casual sporting and leisure activity and community meeting rooms.
Recommendations

To develop a partnership to secure long term community access to
the sports facilities at St Peter’s RC High School

To develop a small community sports hall in the new Beswick
primary school with secured community access

To work with the primary schools to increase community access to
indoor halls for informal community recreation and meeting areas

Explore long term development of a large sports hall provision in a
new High School in Beswick to meet the needs of community based
sport.

To meet the identified shortfall of community facilities in Miles
Platting / Ancoats, ensure the proposed new primary school has
community access and facilities including:
o
MUGA and / or floodlit artificial turf pitch
o
Junior and mini grass football pitches
o
Small community hall / one or two court sports hall.
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SECTION SIX: THE WAY FORWARD
Community Buildings / Centres
6.6.
Community buildings and centres provide an essential role in the community offering
a range of recreational and sporting needs.
6.7.
In addition to the research highlighting that there is strong demand for community
buildings it has been identified that there are a number of the current community
buildings where the long term future is uncertain.
Recommendations

To identify opportunities to develop a centre for contact sports to be
used as a base for those clubs currently in poor quality facilities.
These include:
o
increasing access to existing school facilities
o
utilising existing facilities, e.g. St Peter’s RC High School
sport hall
o
incorporate contact sports facilities in new primary school
developments
o
exploring the feasibility for developing a dedicated contact
sport centre

To maximise community meeting rooms through improved access to
school facilities with priority areas identified as Openshaw, Miles
Platting / Ancoats, Beswick and Clayton

To support existing community buildings / centres that have a long
term future.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION SIX: THE WAY FORWARD
Parks and Informal Recreation
6.8.
There has been significant investment in a range of parks within the NEM area to
provide a range of community recreational and sporting facilities. The Medlock Valley
strategic action plan highlights future priorities for the development of the Medlock
Valley to ensure that the strategic importance of the parks are identified and the
potential benefits maximised.
Recommendations

To maximise the opportunities for informal recreation supporting the
Medlock Valley Strategic Action Plan

To maximise the informal recreational opportunities of the Ashton
and Rochdale Canal corridors

To maximise the potential for both formal and recreational
watersports through the proposals to link the Ashton and Rochdale
Canals to meet an identified gap in community provision in Miles
Platting / Ancoats area.

To identify a range of smaller local parks and informal play facilities
accessible to local communities with the Lower Medlock Valley area
identified as a priority

To ensure that all provision is of high quality and ensure that all new
park provision must demonstrate long term sustainability and future
maintenance support

To maximise community involvement in the future development of
the parks and support the development of Friends of the Park groups

To improve the quality of ancillary facilities, eg changing rooms,
toilets, at bowling greens.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION SIX: THE WAY FORWARD
School facilities
6.9.
Schools are recognised as a vital asset in terms of provision of community sport and
recreation, however wider community use of school facilities is variable.
Recommendations

To work with schools to maximise public access to existing facilities
in areas of identified need with particular reference to school playing
fields and community meeting rooms

To ensure that all new developments on school sites are designed to
enable and maximise community use and form part of the long term
school site development plan

To introduce playground markings for tennis, cricket, rugby, football
and hockey to support sports development initiatives at primary
schools with priority given on the basis of level of community access

Should demand for tennis be realised, to upgrade the tennis courts at
Medlock Valley High School to support tennis development, linking to
the City of Manchester Tennis Centre, with a long term aim of
establishing a satellite feeder club at Medlock to link to the
development of a community club at the Tennis Centre

To ensure the facilities at the New Beswick primary school are
designed to maximise community benefit. Facilities should include:

o
MUGA and / or floodlit artificial turf pitch
o
Junior and mini grass football pitches
o
Small sports hall (one or two courts)
To ensure facilities provided in a potential new secondary school in
Beswick are designed to maximise community benefit. Facilities
should include:
o
Full sized synthetic turf pitch to enable coaching and casual
sporting opportunities
o
Four court sports hall to establish a base for community
sports clubs
o
Junior grass football pitches.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
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SECTION SIX: THE WAY FORWARD
Formal Community Playing Fields
6.10.
Detailed analysis of the formal playing pitch provision in the NEM area has
highlighted that there is a shortfall in junior and mini soccer pitches in the area. While
there are a large number of potential sites identified in the area a significant number
have been identified as located within are area of potential development and / or
unusable due to their poor condition.
6.11.
In addition to competitive football demand has been identified for improved access to
football facilities for recreational sports and training / coaching.
6.12.
In considering the recommendations for playing pitch provision within NEM that full
consideration is given to the Manchester City Wide Playing Pitch Strategy currently
under development.
Recommendations

To improve the quality of existing grass pitches in the area with
regard to pitch drainage, changing rooms and car parking facilities

To increase access to junior and mini soccer facilities through
community access to school pitches and provision of pitches on new
primary and secondary school sites to meet the identified shortfall of
5 junior pitches, the areas identified with the greatest shortfall include
Miles Platting / Ancoats, Clayton and Beswick

To make an advanced land allocation for playing fields linked to the
site proposed for potential new school provision

To improve access to MUGAs and indoor sports halls to provide for
training and casual opportunities

Should alternative provision be identified for the adult and junior pitch
at Hewlett Johnson Playing Field the site should be developed as a
mini soccer centre for the NEM area

Should the shortfall of junior and mini soccer pitches be met then a
number of the pitches that are unused due to limited access and poor
condition are surplus to requirements.
East Manchester Sport, Recreation and Open Space Strategy
Page 57