A city-wide survey was launched in November 2020. The aim of this survey was to understand what residents think about existing sport and leisure facilities in Portsmouth, and how they use them. The survey was also used to get feedback on the plans for a new hub at Bransbury Park.
Money had been set aside to keep the facilities at Eastney Swimming Pool and Wimbledon Park Sports Centre going as they currently are. The proposal was to use this money on a brand new facility at Bransbury Park instead. Most respondents supported the proposal (63% – the full consultation results can be found on the main Portsmouth City Council website). Following this, approval was given to develop the proposal further.
The Council have now committed £10.5m towards the project. They plan to make a bid to Sport England for up to £2m more in grant funding. This would help maximise the number of facilities on the site. The second wave of research was therefore focused on getting more detailed insight around the potential new centre. This insight will help make sure that the right mix of facilities is provided, and show a local need for it. This will also help to inform the Sport England bid.
It was decided that an approach focused on key stakeholders would provide valuable information. Members of the public were also consulted, to understand the views of potential users on a new centre at Bransbury Park. The key stakeholders include:
- individuals, clubs and organisations who currently use Eastney Swimming Pool, Wimbledon Park Sports Centre and Eastney Community Centre,
- regional and national sport groups, and
- local councillors.