Kick off for sports projects thanks to £400k investment
Sports clubs in Mid Suffolk are feeling the benefits of a unique fund which has already seen more than £400,000 awarded to level up sporting provision across the district.
The Mid Suffolk Sports Infrastructure Fund launched in 2025 to support the development of new facilities or fund essential upgrades, inviting VCFSE (voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise) organisations to apply for grants of between £20,000 and £250,000.
The fund focuses on backing projects outside of Stowmarket, ensuring sporting opportunities are spread out across the whole district. Stowmarket itself is already benefitting from a wide programme of investment, including a new sports pavilion, 3G pitch and mini athletics track.
As part of the recent round of funding, four projects have now been approved and received a share of £407,770.
Walsham le Willows Sports Club has received two of these four grants to support different elements of essential upgrades – the first being the installation of floodlights, a video wall and a catering unit, and the second being a gym extension. In total, the club has received £110,000.
Stradbroke Parish Council, in partnership with Stradbroke Tennis Club, has been awarded £47,770 for the resurfacing of the tennis courts, providing users with improved facilities.
Lastly, a £250,000 grant to help fund a new 3G pitch in Debenham has also been approved.
“Sport is for everyone, but you shouldn’t have to travel a long way to take part in it. By helping to fund new facilities and essential upgrades, we hope to empower as many people as possible to try something new, get active and engage with their local community.”
A further £750,000 is available to be applied for in 2026/27, with money set aside from the council’s General Fund budget. The fund is already proving popular, with more expressions of interest recently submitted and looking to progress.
However, anyone that belongs to a local VCFSE organisation planning a sports project can find out more about the fund and submit an application by visiting the Mid Suffolk District Council website.
