MP welcomes funding to support grassroots sport
27/01/2026
Two Banbury Playzones were created thanks to previous funding rounds
As the application window opens for a share of £85 million more funding to support grassroots sport across the country, Banbury’s MP has highlighted how our area has benefited from previous funding rounds.
Across the country nearly 1,000 community projects have been able to enjoy upgraded facilities.
Sean Woodcock noted that Banbury had been allocated almost £500,000 of the government funding, which led to new PlayZone developments being opened by Banbury Town Council in both Princess Diana Park and Chandos Close last year.
The Princes Diana Park project received £241,072 with £246,364 used for the Chandos Close PlayZone.
The latest funding can be used for initiatives such as new all-weather pitches, floodlighting and modern changing facilities designed to welcome under-represented groups, including women and girls.
Its hoped the new or refurbished facilities will give families low-cost, local opportunities to stay active. Across the country at least half of all funding has been directed to the 30 percent most deprived communities.
To widen participation beyond just football, at least 40 percent of funded projects are required to offer multi-sport provision, supporting activities such as rugby, cricket and basketball.
Mr Woodcock said: “Communities have waited far too long for decent places to play sport and come together. This funding is already making a real difference, upgrading pitches, improving changing rooms, and opening doors to people who were previously shut out.
“I was delighted by the opening of PlayZone facilities at Princess Diana Park and Chandos Close in Banbury at the end of last year, and I am pleased that our community now has these spaces to enjoy.
“These spaces can be used to teach children life lessons after school, support mental health in the community, give women and girls safe spaces to get active, and bring neighbours together.”
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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