January 2026 BTME 2026 Preview
Importance of protecting playing fields confirmed by latest figures New figures published by Sport England show it protected more than 1,000 playing fields between April 2023 and March 2024. In its role as a statutory consultee, Sport England is obligated to be consulted whenever anyone wants to develop on a playing field and it will always object if it believes sports provision in the community will be diminished as a result. The latest statistics show Sport England protected 1,038 playing fields in the 12 months to March 2024, displaying a continued commitment to protecting and enhancing playing fields across the country. For director of planning and active environments, Nick Evans,these figures are yet another reminder of the importance of playing fields to making activity a part of normal life for everyone. “The protection and improvement of playing fields has never been as important as it is today,” he explained. “With 1.5 million new homes planned over the next few years, providing spaces for sports and
physical activity to go alongside these new homes is crucial. “Playing fields are a vital resource that offer flexible opportunities to take part in sport and physical activity, providing wide-ranging health and wellbeing benefits to communities across England.
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“We not only need to protect what we already have, we also need to provide more to make sure that the demands by the additional population are met.
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“The rise of women’s football, highlighted by England’s recent Euro success, underscores growing demand and the benefits of protecting and improving these spaces.” The data shows: 94% (1038 out of 1104) of concluded planning applications affecting playing fields resulted in improved or safeguarded sports provision; that in 60% of the cases where Sport England originally objected to an application, further negotiations led to development being approved with improved or safeguarded sports provision; and that of the 145 applications where
Sport England maintained its objection, 79 (55%) were either withdrawn by the applicants or refused planning permission. The statistics come at a time when Sport England’s statutory consultee role is being considered as part of a Government review, with a consultation having been launched last month.
The consultation follows the publication earlier this year of the Government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which seeks to reform the role of statutory consultees in the planning system. Chris Boardman, chair, Sport England, said: “Playing fields are far more than patches of grass – they are the places where people of all ages come
together, where communities form, and where children first discover the joy of being active. “If we get this right, we don’t just safeguard sport; we safeguard wellbeing, growth and the future prospects of millions of young people.” Sport England Enquiry 12
Battery Power Technology shaping the industry Page 15
GMA Industry Awards shortlist announced The Grounds Management Association (GMA) has revealed the shortlist for the 2026 GMA Industry Awards, taking place at the iconic Edgbaston Stadium on 12 March 2026.
From grassroots volunteers to elitelevel grounds teams, this year’s shortlist highlights the depth of talent and expertise that continues to elevate the grounds management industry across the UK and beyond.
faces into the mix. I would also like to thank our independent judging panel for their expertise and considered evaluation of each submission.”
Each year, the awards shine a spotlight on the individuals, teams and organisations who are raising standards across the industry. And this year, there’s an exciting new addition: the GMA Conference, taking place earlier in the day and setting the stage for an evening of celebration.
Jason Booth, GMA Chief Operating Officer said: “It has been inspiring to once again see the dedication shown by so many teams and individuals submitting entries for the GMA Industry Awards.
Designed for grounds professionals, the GMA Conference offers curated opportunities for advanced learning and development. It provides a focused environment to tackle complex industry issues while earning recognised CPD points.
“It’s been particularly encouraging to welcome fresh
The GMA Enquiry 13
Aeration The machinery you need Page 16
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READER ENQUIRY 14