Summary
Sports stars and organizations in England are worried about government plans that might allow playing fields to be developed into new homes. They argue that removing protections for these fields could reduce spaces needed for local sports, at a time when participation is increasing. The government is in the process of consulting on these changes but insists that protections will remain.
Key Facts
- Top athletes like Jill Scott, Sir Mo Farah, and Alex Yee have signed a letter showing concern about losing playing fields.
- The letter is backed by major sporting bodies such as the Football Association and Rugby Football Union.
- The government plans to build 1.5 million homes by 2029, which might affect existing playing fields.
- Sport England could lose its power to be consulted on building projects involving these fields.
- Over 10,000 playing fields were lost in the 1980s and early '90s, which led to Sport England's role in protecting them.
- The Department for Culture, Media and Sport assures that strong protections will remain for playing fields.
- The government's consultation on planning reforms is ongoing, with no decisions made yet.
- There's a call from the sporting community to maintain measures that protect playing fields for future generations.
