Community sports facilities in the South Hams are benefitting from £5.7m worth of funding. The investment supports South Hams District Council’s commitment to working with communities to help them deliver projects and schemes that will enhance local areas.

Over the past year, £5.7m has been invested by South Hams District Council and other organisations, including the RFU, Sport England, Football Foundation and other funders. This includes money allocated for projects next year, providing physical, mental, social, health and wellbeing for people of all ages and abilities living in the South Hams.

Some of the investment has come from Section 106 funding – money raised from planning developments in South Hams communities to offset any pressures caused by these new homes, often used for community facilities.

Cllr Julian Brazil, South Hams Executive Member for Community Services, Operations and Leisure, said: “Over the past year we’ve seen an unprecedented level of investment into local sport and leisure, and I’m proud that South Hams District Council is helping to make this possible through capital funding, S106 and match funding.

“These improvements to our facilities will support physical and mental wellbeing, offer more inclusive opportunities for people of all ages and abilities, and strengthen the social fabric of our towns and villages. It’s a real investment not just in facilities, but in healthier, happier communities across the South Hams.”

The sports funding is just one way that the Council is supporting its communities. It’s also keen to work with the district’s creative sector to explore how it can best leave a lasting legacy and put in place strong building blocks so any future council can continue to support this important sector.

With that in mind, the Council has developed an arts and culture plan to support the creative sector. The plan includes an overarching vision and some initial areas of focus – the most important being to invest in forging trusted relationships with the sector, listening to concerns, identifying opportunities and understanding how the council can help amplify the ambitions of South Hams communities.

Cllr Nadine Dommett, Executive Member for Community Development, Arts and Culture, said: “I believe arts and culture have huge potential to boost our community’s wellbeing, drive tourism, support economic growth, and create a real sense of pride in our area. That’s why we’ve developed a plan that not only supports the sector now, but also strengthens the creative ecosystem for the future, helping artists, organisations, and venues to collaborate, grow, and attract vital external investment. By using the Council’s influence to bring people together and create new opportunities, we’re increasing participation and helping our cultural identity to flourish.

“I’m determined to make arts and culture a visible and vibrant career path, supporting skills development and professional opportunities for people in our district. I’m confident that this approach will make our towns and villages better places to live, visit, and invest in—enriching lives, supporting local businesses, and making our district a more attractive and dynamic place for everyone.”