Whitehaven and Workington MP Josh MacAlister has brought together grassroots sports clubs from across West Cumbria following the Government’s announcement of a landmark £400 million investment in local sport facilities and initiatives.

The funding, unveiled recently by the Labour Government, will be delivered over the next three years to improve local facilities, strengthen community clubs, and encourage more people to take up sport and physical activity.

Ministers have described the package as a “game-changer for the nation”, with a focus on tackling health inequalities and ensuring every community has access to high-quality sports provision.

Josh MacAlister MP said: “This investment from the Labour Government is a once in a generation chance to transform grassroots sport.

“We are lucky in West Cumbria to have so many brilliant local clubs, run by volunteers who give their time week in, week out.

“But too many facilities are outdated, and too many people still face barriers to getting active.

“By working together on a local plan, we can make sure West Cumbria is at the front of the queue when the funding is rolled out. This is about investing in our health, our young people, and our communities.

“I want this to be just the start of the conversation. If you run a local club or community sport project, please get in touch with me.

“The more ideas and evidence we have, the stronger our case will be. Together, we can make sure West Cumbria benefits from this historic investment in grassroots sport.”

At the meeting in West Cumbria, representatives from local football, rugby, cricket, hockey, athletics, and gymnastics clubs came together to share their priorities. Cumberland Council and Active Cumbria also joined the discussion.

Clubs highlighted the need for an upgrade to pitches and training facilities, including all-weather surfaces; a modernising of changing rooms and clubhouses to make them more inclusive.

That theme was backed up with expanding opportunities for women and girls in sport and improving access for young people and families, particularly in poorer and more rural areas of West Cumbria.