Hyndburn Leisure has welcomed a major investment from Hyndburn Borough Council to strengthen grassroots sport and physical activity across the Borough, marking an exciting new chapter for local clubs and communities.
As part of the Council’s 2026/27 and 2027/28 budget, funding has been approved to support a new Sports Development Programme, including £45,000 per year for a dedicated role to lead and manage the programme and an additional £100,000 to drive participation, youth engagement and healthier communities.
Hyndburn Leisure has been appointed to deliver the programme, recognising its strong track record of working closely with local sports clubs, schools and partners to increase opportunities for people to be active.
As part of this exciting development, recruitment is now live for a new Sport & Club Development Manager, who will lead the delivery of the programme and play a key role in shaping the future of sport and physical activity across Hyndburn.
The new programme will focus on strengthening grassroots sports clubs, developing sustainable participation pathways, and ensuring that opportunities to take part in sport and physical activity are inclusive, visible and accessible to all.
Key areas of delivery will include:
- Supporting the growth, sustainability and resilience of local sports clubs
- Building stronger partnerships with education providers and national governing bodies
- Increasing participation among under-represented groups
- Establishing a benevolent fund to reduce financial barriers to taking part
- Raising the profile of sport and physical activity across Hyndburn
Councillor Kimberley Whitehead, Deputy Leader of Hyndburn Borough Council and Portfolio Holder for Sport, said:
“This investment demonstrates our commitment to supporting grassroots sport and creating healthier communities across Hyndburn. Local clubs are at the heart of our communities, and this programme will give them the support they need to grow, thrive and reach more people than ever before. By working with Hyndburn Leisure, we can ensure this initiative is delivered quickly and effectively, creating lasting opportunities for residents to be active and improve their wellbeing.”
Hyndburn Leisure says the programme builds on years of successful partnership working across the Borough and provides an opportunity to go even further.
Lyndsey Sims, Chief Executive at Hyndburn Leisure said:
“We’re incredibly proud to be leading this programme on behalf of Hyndburn Borough Council. We already have strong relationships with local sports clubs, schools and community organisations, and this investment allows us to strengthen those connections even further.
We’re looking forward to delivering lasting, positive outcomes for local people and creating a strong sporting legacy for Hyndburn in the years to come.”
Helen Tomlinson, who was recognised at the Active Hyndburn Awards 2025 for her outstanding dedication to netball and for supporting thousands of people over decades, also welcomed the announcement:
“Grassroots sport changes lives. I’ve seen first-hand how being involved in sport can build confidence, friendships and lifelong habits. This investment is fantastic news for Hyndburn and will make a real difference to clubs, volunteers and participants across the Borough. It’s about giving everyone the chance to get involved, regardless of their background or circumstances.”
The Sports Development Programme will also play a key role in delivering the Council’s Active Environment Strategy and will focus on creating long-term, sustainable improvements to participation, health and wellbeing across Hyndburn.
