Renewed call for greater protections for local sports and community facilities

Cramlington and Killingworth MP Emma Foody has reiterated calls for strengthened protections for local sports and community facilities in Parliament, following a recent visit to a leisure centre in Cramlington.

The Labour and Co-operative MP has sponsored a Bill in Parliament – the Assets of Community Value (Sports Facilities) Bill – which she introduced to Parliament on 7 May. The change in the law would give sports facilities automatic eligibility for community asset protection, removing unnecessary barriers for local groups to safeguard and manage them.

Speaking in Parliament, Ms Foody highlighted her recent visit to Concordia Leisure Centre, saying:

“I recently visited Concordia Leisure Centre in Cramlington. As well as seeing the leisure facilities, I heard firsthand about the services they offer, such as SEND swimming lessons, supported internships, and social prescribing services. Locally based sports and community facilities are the bedrock of many communities, bringing people together. Can we have a debate on recognising the true value of these facilities, and how my Sports Facility Community Value Bill would strengthen their protection?”

In response, Lucy Powell MP, Leader of the House of Commons, replied:

“I congratulate her on bringing forward her Bill. I think it really highlights the value that sports facilities like Concordia Leisure Centre bring to communities like hers — something we should be valuing. We are valuing it as a government, and we are bringing forward measures to make sure that communities can keep them under their control.”

Speaking after the debate, Ms Foody said:

“Sports facilities are crucial hubs in local communities whether leisure centres such as Concordia or local sports clubs run by volunteers – they provide vital services and a place where communities can come together.

“My Bill would ensure greater protections for them, recognising the role they play in our communities”.