The strategy, developed after extensive consultation with residents, sports clubs, and community organisations, outlines plans to support more people in participating in sport and physical activity. It addresses key barriers such as transport, disability access, confidence, facility location, and affordability for those most in need.
Recent figures show a significant increase in the use of the Council's sport and leisure facilities, with recorded visits rising from approximately 862,500 in 2022/23 to over 1.6 million in 2025/26. Community use of school facilities has also seen substantial growth, increasing from under 200,000 to more than 640,000 visits.
If approved, the strategy will guide services and investment over the next decade, with annual action plans commencing in April 2027. Key proposals include establishing the Falkirk Active Communities Fund with up to £50,000 annually from existing budgets, reviewing affordability support, developing community sport networks, optimising existing facilities, improving pathways between school, community, and club sport, and leveraging physical activity for health outcomes.
A separate Strategic Sports Pitch Plan will also be developed to assess the condition and future needs of pitches across the area. Furthermore, progress on a potential regional leisure and wellbeing hub near Falkirk Community Stadium is noted, with a business case expected in June 2027. However, approval of the strategy itself does not constitute approval for specific building projects or capital investments, which will require separate consideration.
“"Participation across our facilities has grown, but we know that cost, transport, accessibility and confidence can still prevent people from taking part. The proposed strategy provides a long-term framework for working with clubs, schools, communities and health partners to address those barriers and to make the best use of facilities across our area."
