Playing Pitches Delivery Plan for the Plymouth Policy Area (PPA)
Needs assessment – Core Sports
2018 - 2021
Playing Pitches Delivery Plan for the Plymouth Policy Area (PPA): Needs Assessment- Core Sports
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4global Consulting Terms of Reference Estimates and forecasts contained within this report are based on the data and information obtained at that time and the accuracy of resultant findings and recommendations is dependent on the quality of that data.
The author(s) will not be held liable for any data provided by third party organisations as part of the Playing Pitch Strategy (PPS) delivery process. The data and recommendations have been conscientiously reviewed through the PPS governance process, with all data and information subject to a thorough check and challenge process via the Project Steering Group. Notwithstanding this, it has not been possible for the author to independently review every element of data provided by third parties.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 FOOTBALL GRASS PITCH ANALYSIS 4
2 ARTIFICIAL GRASS PITCHES (AGP’S) 56
3 CRICKET ANALYSIS 67
4 RUGBY UNION ANALYSIS 87
5 RUGBY LEAGUE ANALYSIS 107
6 HOCKEY ANALYSIS 110
7 GLOSSARY OF TERMS 123
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1 Football grass pitch analysis
1.1 Introduction
1.1.1 This section assesses the adequacy of pitches for football in Plymouth (including the administrative
fringe) by presenting the following:
• An overview of pitch supply
• An overview of demand for football
• The pattern of play of football
• A review of the capacity and adequacy of current provision across Plymouth, including an
understanding of activity at individual sites. This is based on a review of sites as broken down
by (groups of) Neighbourhood Areas, of which there are 39 in the City
• The future picture of provision for football across the City
• A summary of findings and the key issues for the Plan to address.
1.1.2 It should be noted that this document represents a ‘marked-up’ version of the 2014 PPP Needs
Assessment. This means that where new data is available or the situation is known to have changed the
figures and commentary relating to this has been changed also. Where the information is thought to have
remained consistent with the 2014 study, or no new information is available, this has been carried
forward into this study.
1.2 Overview of pitches
1.2.1 There are estimated to be 125 individual formal grass football pitches in Plymouth currently marked out
for play.
1.2.2 Other sites (especially a significant number of primary/junior schools) have grass spaces, but which are
not formally marked as pitches (at least at the time of this study (2018)).
1.2.3 Figure 1.1 summarises the breakdown of pitch sizes that are available across the City, and on the fringes
just outside, so as to include pitches over which there is City Council control, but which lie just outside
the city boundaries. The table also outlines the level of community access that is available. Further detail
is provided in the playing pitch strategy approved data set.
Figure 1.1 – Football Pitches in Plymouth: Total
Classif -ication
Definition Adult Youth Mini
Total
11v11 11v11 9v9 7v7 5v5
A1 PCC/local authority owned and available for community use 32 10 21 14 2 79
A2 Community Asset transfer but available for use 10 1 8 4 0 23
A3 PCC/local authority owned but not available for community use 3 1 3 3 0 10
B Available but not used 1 1 0 0 0 2
C Not available 6 0 0 5 0 11
Total 52 13 31 26 2 125
1.2.4 The figure above represents a decrease in recorded provision from the 2014 strategy:
• -7 Adult 11v11
• -7 Youth 11v11
• -4 Youth 9v9
• -1 Mini 7v7
• -4 Mini 5v5
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1.2.5 It should be noted that this decrease is considered to be largely due to the configuration of sites changing
due to the requirements and preferences of site users. It is confirmed that there has been no loss of
playing pitch land in this period. A complete audit of the changes to site configurations is available at the
end of this need assessment.
1.2.6 It should also be noted, that not included in the above table are pitches that are categorized as ‘D’-
pitches that were recorded in 2014 but were on sites that were closed, or disused, but remain
undeveloped. There are 6 of these sites in Plymouth:
• Beechwood Primary School (1x Mini 7v7 pitch)
• Leigham Primary School (1x Mini 7v7 and 2x Mini 5v5 pitches)
• Mayflower Community Centre (1x Youth 11v11 and 1x Youth 9v9 pitches)
• Old Priory Academy (1x mini 7v7 pitch)
• Pomphett Primary School (1x mini 7v7 pitch)
• Tothill Enclosure (1x adult 11v11 and 1x youth 9v9 pitches)
1.2.7 These sites are also summarized at the end of this chapter.
OWNERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT
1.2.8 Ownership and management of the pitches captured in the current audit is as follows:
Figure 1.2 - Football Pitches – Ownership and Management
Owners Sites Adult 11v11
Youth 11v11
Youth 9v9
Mini 7v7
Mini 5v5
Pitches
(Total)
Plymouth City Council 37 40 7 21 10 2 81
Education 20 6 6 8 17 0 37
MOD 4 3 0 1 0 0 4
Private 5 2 0 0 0 0 2
Cricket Club 1 0 0 1 0 0 1
1.2.9 Plymouth City Council owns the majority of adult pitches, but it can be seen that the educational sector is
also a very important provider. Most of the educational sector is comprised of schools and colleges that
have independent management of their facilities (even though the City Council, as education authority,
owns much of the property). In such circumstances, it is important to note that schools are at liberty to
reconfigure how their playing fields as they see fit. It should be noted that in such a circumstance, all
playing fields would need to be protected to allow schools to fully utilise their sites for playing pitches.
1.2.10 In addition, certain City Council owned sites are, in fact, leased to individual clubs, and there are several
leasehold arrangements currently under consideration amongst the relevant interests. The majority of
larger schools and colleges have some community use of their pitches, although they are not always
able to confirm whether formal community use agreements exist. The use of such pitches is considered
further in the site/area-based review provided later in this section.
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QUALITY: SCORING OF SITES
1.2.11 The scores given to both the pitch quality and built facilities are based upon Sport England’s guidance –
Appendix 2d. (https://www.sportengland.org/media/3522/pps-guidance-october-2013-updated.pdf)
1.2.12 The final pitch quality scores were based upon the assessments made as part of the 2014 research.
They are an amalgamation of scores for the playing surface (grass length/cover, size/slope/evenness of
pitch and any problem areas) with scores for the pitch maintenance programme (frequency and
adequacy of grass cutting, seeding and application of remedial dressings). The majority of sites with
community use were assessed as part of the 2014 PPP. As part of the 2014 PPP process, these scores
were reviewed and sometimes amended to take into account the views of local clubs, league and NGB
reps, as well as site mangers, so as to achieve a rounded view.
1.2.13 The agreed quality scores were brought forward to the 2018 PPP refresh and were used as a starting
point. Where officers from the PPP steering group were aware that the quality of sites had changed
(either via improvement or declining pitch quality), the quality scores were changed to reflect this. In
addition, representatives from the community leagues administering football in Plymouth were invited to
review the pitch data and to recommended amendments where required.
QUALITY SUMMARY ASSESSMENT
1.2.14 The quality of such pitches is considered further in the site/area-based review provided later in this
section. However, the following is a general summary:
1.2.15 The average carrying capacity of PCC owned adult pitches is 2.0 (equivalent to average/standard
quality). However, PCC owned Youth 11v11 pitches (1.5) and Youth 9v9 (1.9) have average capacity
scores below 2.0. This indicates that the quality of these pitches is a mixture of predominantly
average/standard and poor pitches. Standard/average mini soccer pitches have a carrying capacity of
4.0. The average capacity of a PCC owned Mini 7v7 pitch is 2.9. This shows that the average PCC
owned Mini 7v7 pitch is below average/standard quality.
1.2.16 Education owned sites had the lowest average capacity scores across all pitch types in Plymouth, with all
pitch types recording an average capacity below the standard quality capacity (Adult 11v11: 1.5, Youth
11v11: 1.7, Youth 9v9: 1.8, Mini 7v7, 2.0). Of all these pitch types, Mini 7v7 can be considered the worst
as 2.0 is the capacity awarded to all poor quality pitches. This means all Mini 7v7 pitches on education
sites in PCC are considered poor quality. The cause of this poor condition is thought to be due to the lack
of pitch maintenance taking place on the site coupled with the results of overplay on the site from
combined community and school use. This means that during times of poor weather pitches can become
significantly overused for both school and community use which reduces their quality.
1.2.17 The only pitch types recorded on private and MoD sites are adult pitches. The average pitch capacity for
the site was 2.3 (MoD) and 2.0 (Private).
1.2.18 This reflects very much a mixed picture. The best situation occurs in the club-managed facilities. The
education sector seems to perform poorest of all ownership type recorded.
1.2.19 Generally, the worst situation is apparent with local authority pitches, with public sector cut-backs
impacting on the management of the pitch stock. Despite this, some investment has been made to
Staddiscombe to improve drainage and general pitch quality with a beneficial impact.
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GENERIC QUALITY ISSUES CONSTRAINING DEVELOPMENT OF CLUBS
1.2.20 In their responses to the 2014 PPP survey, various clubs have made comments about the quality of local
facilities, and these are identified in the site/area based profiles later in the section.
1.3 Overview of Demand
ACTIVE LIVES DATA (SPORT ENGLAND)
1.3.1 The Sport England Active Lives Survey can be used in helping to evaluate the proportion of the adult
population that are likely to participate in football. More information on the Sport England Active Lives
Tool can be found here. The key messages for football are:
• 6.8% of adult residents in Plymouth participated in some form of football at least twice within
the last 28 days. This represents around 14,700 people living within the city
• Of the adult residents in Devon, around 2% are thought to play small-sided football (see the
AGP chapter)
• The Sport England Local Profile resources (available here) indicate there are currently 55.7%
of adult residents that would like to do more sport
CURRENT PARTICIPATION – MATCH PLAY
1.3.2 Building upon the Active People analysis set out above, football is the most popular pitch sport in
Plymouth and it is popular throughout the area. Figure 1.3 summarises the number of teams playing
within the city, as well as the number of teams being exported to sites in neighbouring South Hams.
Figure 1.3 – Football Teams in Plymouth (2018)
Adult 11v11 Youth 11v11
Youth 9v9
Mini 7v7
Mini 5v5 Total
Teams Playing within Plymouth 114 102 69 52 28 365
Exported Demand to South Hams 9 2 2 2 3 18
Total Demand 123 104 71 54 31 383
1.3.3 These figures are a bone fide ‘best estimate’ and will in any event change over the course of time. They
take into account, as far as possible, clubs and teams that have a strong affinity with Plymouth City
based on their membership, but which may play just outside the City.
1.3.4 Trends in football participation tend to ebb and flow, and can be influenced by demographics, sports
development campaigns, and international success amongst other things. Any estimates of trends over
recent years have to be interpreted and treated with caution. Figure 1.4 below shows the difference
between the level of play captured by the 2014 study (for teams playing within the study area), in
comparison to the 2018 work.
Figure 1.4 – Trend in Football demand, 2014 - 2018 (Source: Plymouth PPP, 2014 & 2018)
Adult 11v11
Youth 11v11
Youth 9v9
Mini 7v7
Mini 5v5
Total
Total Demand (2014) 151 95 61 51 29 387
Teams Playing within Plymouth 114 102 69 52 28 365
Exported Demand to South Hams 9 2 2 2 3 18
Total Demand (2018) 123 104 71 54 31 383
Difference in teams -28 +9 +10 +3 +2 -4
Percentage Change -18.5% +9.5% +16.4% +5.8% +6.9% -1.3%
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1.3.5 When compared, the 2014 and 2018 audits show that there has been a stagnation in overall demand,
with greater fluctuation within each age bracket. Figure 1.4 shows that’s the greatest change in demand
has been in adult football, where the number of teams competing has dropped by 28 teams (18.5%).
However, across all other age brackets, the number of teams has increased, with Youth 9v9 teams
increasing by 16.4%.
1.3.6 It should be noted that 18 of the 28 adult teams no longer playing in the city are from university intramural
teams which have not affiliated to the FA’s Whole Game System Data, where this demand has been
drawn from. It should be noted that there maybe other teams that had not affiliated by the time this data
was drawn and therefore this figure should be seen as a ‘minimum’ level of affiliated demand.
1.3.7 It should be noted that the change in demand from all pitch types (other than adult football) has not
resulted in pitch re-marking to suit this demand. This would help to better serve the changing profile of
demand in Plymouth. This is evidenced by the lack of adequate supply of Youth 11v11 pitches and the
spare capacity in Adult 11v11 pitches (see table 4.13 below).
MIGRATION OF TEAMS
1.3.8 From the above it can be clearly seen that there is some ‘cross-border travel’ from Plymouth based
teams to make use of pitches outside of the city.
1.3.9 There are some notable examples of teams travelling across the city boundaries to use home grounds in
adjacent local authority areas. The most notable of these relate to the large Staddiscombe Playing Field
complex, which is owned and managed by the City Council, but is located in South Hams. Amongst
others, many intra mural teams from Plymouth University use this site. The club survey has also
indicated that several clubs rely on facilities outside the area for training (to be considered at relevant
points elsewhere in this section).
PATTERN OF PLAY AND CAPACITY
1.3.10 Table 1.5 shows the overall distribution of ‘match play’ over the course of a week in the season. For
adults the peak-times are Saturday PM, although midweek fixtures form a very significant component of
overall demand compared to other areas (this has changed since 2014 when demand was almost evenly
split between Saturday PM and Sunday AM for adult male football. It should be noted that, the relatively
large mid-week component for adult teams is in part due to due to BUCS fixtures, but also due to the
Devon Wednesday League. The times of play for individual club teams is provided in the playing pitch
strategy approved data set.
1.3.11 Most Youth 11 v 11 and 9 v 9 football is played on Saturday mornings, as is almost all mini-soccer.
During consultation with the FA was reported that, in contrast to other areas of the country, teams in
Plymouth are known to play more flexibly within a given time slot. This means that 2 matches can be
played consecutively at peak times (e.g. Saturday PM) for much of the season. This is understood to
allow more teams to play in their preferred venues but may have an impact on some sites if ‘overplay’ is
an issue; this is explored below. The ‘double time slot’ will impact on the peak time capacity analysis of
this document (see 1.14 below).
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Figure 1.5 – Times of match play (2018 data)
Adult Youth 11v11 Youth 9v9 Mini Soccer
Male Female Male Female Male Female 7v7 5v5
Total Teams 111 12 86 18 53 7 54 31
Saturday 49% - 78% 86% 88% 89% 98% 87%
Sunday 27% 89% 21% 14% 13% 11% 2% 13%
Midweek 24% 11% 1% - - - - -
TRAINING (2014 DATA)
1.3.12 The club questionnaire survey forming part of the 2014 study asked the following question, with the
response also summarised below.
Figure 1.6 – does your club train on your home ground? (2014)
Response
Percent Response
Total
1 Yes – on the pitch
32.00% 8
2 Yes – elsewhere on the ground
20.00% 5
3 No
48.00% 12
answered 25
skipped 8
1.3.13 The 2014 PPP data did not clarify how many clubs and teams actually do formally train. However, the
study’s findings indicated that beyond the more ‘casual’ teams, most do. The 2014 results above, do not
include the University teams, playing and training at Staddiscombe. The above is noteworthy for
highlighting the reliance of many teams on training on their pitch; and, the substantial number of clubs
who either do not train at all; or else, train at another facility. Where the training patterns of individual
clubs and teams have been identified, they have been factored into the site evaluations, and assessing
the overall use of pitches in relation to their notional carrying capacity. Where these precise training
needs have not been identified, there have been assumptions made about where and how often club
teams train.
1.3.14 Where the 2014 survey has revealed clubs and teams making use of other venues for training the
following are the most important (clubs have been anonymised).
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Figure 1.7 – Training venues (off-pitch/site) (2014 data)
Venue Type of Facility Frequency
All Saints School AGP Regular
All Saints School AGP Regular
Bickleigh Camp AGP Weekly During Winter
Brickfields AGP Weekly
Brickfields AGP Weekly
Brickfields AGP Weekly
Central Park Open ground During Daylight In Summer
Central Park (Summer) Grass Twice A Week
Coombe Dean School AGP Winter Training Oct-March
Devonport Park Open ground During Daylight Hours In Summer
Drake Naval Barracks AGP Once A Week During Winter Period
Eggbuckland Community College (U9-U16) AGP Weekly (30 Weeks Per Year Approx)
Eggbuckland Community College (U9-U16) Grass pitch Daily (July-September & April-May)
Estover AGP Weekly
Goals Plymouth AGP Not Very Often, Cost To High
Goals Plymouth AGP Not Very, Cost Too Much To Hire
Goals Soccer Centre AGP Weekly
Harpers Park (First Team & U18) Grass Pitch Daily
Heles School Sports hall Once A Week
Ivybridge Community College (U9-U16) AGP Daily (September-March)
Lipson Community College AGP Weekly (30 Weeks Per Year Approx)
Longcause School Sports Hall 2 Teams Winter Only
Manadon AGP Weekly
Manadon AGP Regular
Manadon Park Open ground During Daylight Hours In Summer
Plymouth College AGP Weekly
Plymstock School AGP Octoberto End March 3 Teams
Plymstock School AGP Weekly
Plymstock School AGP Once A Week
Ridgeway School Sports hall 3 Teams Octoberto End March
Staddiscombe Open fields Weekly March To September
Tor Bridge High School AGP Weekly
Tor Bridge High School AGP Weekly
Torbridge High School AGP Weekly (30 Weeks Per Year Approx)
1.3.15 It can be seen from the above that AGPs are a very important resource for training for a considerable
number of local clubs and teams. A fuller analysis of the provision and use of AGPs in the Plymouth area
is contained in Section 8.
1.3.16 The 2014 club survey asked if any difficulty was experienced in gaining access to facilities for either
home matches or training, with the resulting overall response.
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Figure 1.8 – Difficulty accessing training facilities (2014 data)
Yes No Response Total
Obtaining pitches for home matches or training? 45.8% (11)
54.2% (13)
24
1.3.17 A very large minority therefore appear to experience such problems with key issues being exemplified by
the following comments (respondents anonymised):
• Lack of times, costs and locations.
• Intense competition for use of facilities.
• If found they cost too much to hire.
• The cost is too much hire.
• Short supply of 3G pitches when weather puts grass pitches out of bounds - competition with other clubs.
• Lack of pitches and training facilities.
• Lack of availability to train on winter evenings
• It’s very difficult to find places to train during the winter as limited availability at reasonable cost.
• If out of bounds alternative venues are very limited. Would like to train on grass at certain times of year.
• Flooding of facilities.
• Availability of pitches when weather is poor.
• Inappropriate or lack of changing facilities.
• Lack of suitable and available grass and artificial surfaces meeting required and expected standards.
OTHER USE OF PITCHES (2014 DATA)
1.3.18 Many of the football pitches in Plymouth are part of larger, multi-functional spaces. Such will be either
schools, public recreation grounds, or other multi-sport venues. Shared use of space is generally an
optimal and cost-effective solution where land is scarce, as in Plymouth. However, problems can be
experienced. The 2014 club questionnaire asked whether home ground pitches were used for other
activities during the week, with the following overall response.
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Figure 1.10 – Shared use of sites/pitches (2014 data)
Are your home ground pitches used for any other informal sports/recreation use during the week?
Response
Percent Response
Total
1 Yes
44.00% 11
2 No
28.00% 7
3 Don't Know
28.00% 7
1.3.19 Some of the issues associated with the shared use of specific sites will be highlighted in the site/area
specific summaries, later in this section.
1.3.20 The majority of schools in Plymouth have their own playing fields and only a small proportion do not have
any outdoor space at all. Not all schools mark out their playing field area as formal pitches, but most
have the capacity to do. However, there are some educational establishments that use local authority
pitches and therefore impact upon the availability and capacity to a limited extent of facilities for
community use. Most notably, these include use of the Staddiscombe site by Plymouth University intra
mural teams. Their pattern of play is largely complementary to other users and offers opportunities for
partnerships, providing the pitches have the capacity to accommodate this.
1.3.21 Many of the playing fields in Plymouth also function as public recreational areas and as such are also
used for more informal recreation. This certainly impacts upon the quality of some pitches, particularly
with regards to dog fouling. During the football season, the use is not sufficiently extensive to reduce the
capacity of pitches, but it does have an impact in terms of the quality of facilities.
LOCAL DEMAND AND SUPPLY
1.3.22 Supply and demand is measured through the use of match equivalents to ensure that a comparison is
possible. Both the adequacy of pitch provision to meet demand over the course of a week; and the
capacity of a pitch to meet demand at peak time are measured. To measure demand, a team playing
home fixtures every other week would generate the equivalent of 0.5 match equivalents per week (one
fixture every other week). Match equivalent values are also used to measure the use of pitches by
educational establishments and the impact of casual access and training. Weightings have been factored
in to take account of considerations like shared education use, and pitch quality.
PEAK TIME DEMAND
1.3.23 The ability of a pitch to accommodate demand at peak time is as important as the overall capacity of the
site over a week. The local leagues all have specific kick off times and while these are flexible to a
degree, it is important that there are enough pitches available when people wish to use them. It should
be noted that pitches can only be considered to have spare capacity at peak time when they are not
already utilised to their full capacity over the course of a week. An adult pitch that is not used on a
Saturday afternoon (City-wide peak time), but is used three times per week at other times (Sunday
morning, Sunday afternoon and midweek for example) would not be considered able to sustain additional
play at peak-time, even though no one would be using the facility then, as this would be detrimental to
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the quality of the pitch. To account for the possibility of 2 matches being played consecutively on the
same pitch during the same peak-time period, a scenario has been developed to account for this in the
analysis.
CAPACITY SCORES
1.3.24 FA guidelines on playing pitch capacity are used to measure supply – pitch capacity is based upon the
quality of the pitch and the consequential number of matches that it can sustain per week. The
assumptions used are set out in Figure 1.11.
Figure 1.11 – Capacity Scores based upon Pitch Quality (2014 data -updated where appropriate by steering group officers)
Agreed pitch quality rating
Number of match equivalent sessions a week
Adult football Youth football Mini soccer
Good 3 4 6
Standard 2 2 4
Poor 1 1 2
It is mandatory to play U11s on 9v9 pitches this season, and this pitch size will be mandatory for U12s
next season (2014/2015). The following table sets out the pitches junior teams are playing on. Figure
1.12 - FA recommended pitch sizes
Age Type
Recommended size without run-off (m)
Recommended size including runoff (m)
Recommended size of goalposts (m)
Length Width Length Width Length Width
Mini soccer U7/U8
5v5 37 27 43 33 1.83 3.66
Mini soccer U9/U10
7v7 55 37 61 43 1.83 3.66
Youth U11/U12
9v9 73 46 79 52 2.13 4.88
Youth U13/U14
11v11 82 50 88 56 2.13 6.40
Youth U15/U16
11v11 91 55 97 61 2.44 7.32
Youth u17/U18
11v11 100 64 106 70 2.44 7.32
Over 18 (senior ages)
11v11 100 64 106 70 2.44 7.32
1.4 Site/ area profiles
1.4.1 The following pages consider the supply of and demand for grass pitches in more detail, by examining
the situation on a site-by site-basis.
1.4.2 The sites are considered in relation to the City Council neighbourhood area in which they are situated.
The 2014 study used 39 designated neighbourhood areas in Plymouth. This document mirrors this
layout.
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1.4.3 Match Equivalents are derived from an assessment of the number of match equivalent sessions taking
place on a weekly basis in the season. These will include both the matches themselves, as well as
training activity. The amount of training activity that takes place on a pitch is a key determinant of its
overall susceptibility to wear and tear. Where club training activity was known or thought to take place
wholly on a grass pitch, an estimate was made of ‘squad sizes’ (expressed as a multiple of the team (as
squads are normally bigger than teams)), and the length and frequency of training sessions. The
information sources used in this regard were club questionnaire returns, information from schools, and
club websites. Often teams will train on the grass pitches during the later evenings at the beginning and
end of the season, and train either on an AGP or indoors (usually in a sports hall) during the darker mid-
season period. To reflect this pattern, the multiple factored in to reflect squad training sizes is usually
reduced (to 0.75 of a team).
1.4.4 At some venues casual activity (such as informal matches in public parks and recreation grounds) can
add to wear and tear on pitches. Where there is a known tendency for this to happen it has been noted.
The calculations and assumptions underlying Equivalent Match Capacity and Match Equivalents are
more fully explained in playing pitch strategy approved data set.
1.4.5 Key information is also provided in tabular format preceding the commentary. Where actual usage of
pitches is estimated to exceed notional capacity, the Match Capacity figures are shown in Red in the
tables. In respect of references to ownership ‘LA’ means Plymouth City Council. Where a site is leased
from the PCC this is mentioned. Other abbreviations in the table are ‘NP’ (No Pitch) and ‘AC’ (At
Capacity).
1.4.6 Abbreviations are also used to describe site ownership. These abbreviations are explained below:
A1: PCC/local authority owned and available for community use
A2: Community Asset transfer but available for use
A3: PCC/local authority owned but not available for community use?
B: Available but not used
C: Not available
D: Former playing pitch sites with potential to be reinstated as playing pitches
U: Unknown
1.4.7 PLEASE NOTE: Capacity demand is calculated on specific pitch types. Where there demand for a
specific pitch type (e.g. a youth 9v9 pitch) but there is no 9v9 pitch on the site. It should be assumed that
the demand for this pitch is being placed on the next largest pitch size (e.g. if there were youth 9v9
demand but no youth 9v9 supply, and there was a youth 11v11 pitch (and no adult 11v11 pitch), it
should be assumed the Youth 9v9 demand is taking place on the youth 11v11 pitch, either via
overmarking or the matches taking place on the wrong pitch sizes.
1.4.8 Where there adult demand but no adult pitches, this demand can be attributed to any youth pitches
available at the same site.
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North Prospect & Weston Mill/ Beacon Park/ Peverell & Hartley/ Ford
Site Name
Availa
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slots (2x
match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Central Park Playing Fields
(including Sports Plateau,
Tip Site, Cottage Field,
Barn Park Road sites)
A1 LA 2 2 3 3 1.0 NP 3.0 NP NP 1.0 NP 3.0 NP NP
Harpers Park C LA 2 4 4.0 NP NP NP NP 4.0 NP NP NP NP
Weston Mill Oak Villa
A2 LA 1 1 1 3 3 3 3 2 2 1.5 2.0 2.0 NP NP 0.5 1.0 1.0 NP NP
1.4.9 Central Park (including Sports Plateau, Tip Site, Barn Park Road, Cottage Field Pitches): The site is owned and managed by the City Council, and hosts 4
pitches. The pitches are located as follows; Cottage Field – 1x adult pitch; Sports Plateau – 1x adult pitch, and; Tip Site – 2x 9v9 pitches. The Barn Park and
Love’s Field sites were once used as football pitches but haven’t been for some time due to poor pitch conditions. The site is currently undergoing
refurbishments and is not currently used. The assessment considers pitch quality to be poor due to poor drainage. Changing accommodation exists in the
southern part on Central Park but this is a considerable distance from pitches. As explained later in this section, there are proposals to further develop the
facilities on this site into a community sports hub.
1.4.10 Harpers Park: This site is owned by the Council, but managed by Plymouth Argyle FC. It is used largely by teams associated with the Plymouth Arglye Football
Club. It hosts 2 adult pitches.
1.4.11 Devonport High School for Girls: The site is managed by the school, and there are no recorded pitches.
1.4.12 Weston Mill Oak Villa: Club-owned and managed site. There is 1 x adult 1x Youth 11v11 and 1 x 9v9 pitches on the site. The adult and youth 11v11 pitches are
of good quality, whilst the youth 9v9 is of standard quality. The changing facilities are considered to be good. Adult and youth teams reported to train on
Plymouth College AGP. It is estimated that the pitches are not being used to capacity and there is spare peak-time capacity across all pitch types.
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Chaddlewood; Colebrook & Newnham Ridgeway; Woodford
Site Name
Availa
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slots
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Hele's School A1 Education 1 1 2 4 1 2 2 -
0.5 1.0 NP 3.0 NP NP 1.0 NP 1.0 NP
Peacock Meadow
C LA 1 2 NP NP NP 2.0 NP NP NP NP 2.0 NP
Plympton Community
Sports Centre A1 Education
9v9 (FA)
1 1 5 NP NP NP NP NP NP NP AC AC AC
1.4.13 Heles School: The site has 1 x youth 11v11 pitch; and, 1 x mini 7v7 pitch. It is managed by the school. There is some adult demand which is expected to be
played on the youth 11v11 pitch (meaning its overall carrying capacity is likely to be 0.5). The site is well used by AFC Plympton Youth. Pitches and changing
facilities are both rated as average/standard. The assessment suggests that the pitches have some spare capacity to accommodate more demand at peak-times
however, this school site is subject to heavy community pressures and has high aspirations for the use of its playing fields. Future issues may arise in the
coordination of multi-sport activity on the pitch areas.
1.4.14 Peacock Meadow: This city council controlled site is recorded as having 1 x 7v7 mini-soccer pitch which is no longer available for community use. Previously
recorded as a junior pitch, but no markings nor apparent use this past season. The assessment considers the pitch to be of poor quality.
1.4.15 Plympton Community Sports Centre: The site is managed by the Plympton Academy and has 1 x 9v9 3G AGP pitch. The pitch is on the FA register and is
therefore considered to be able to meet demand for soccer and 9v9 matches. The site is currently recorded as being used to capacity.
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Whitleigh
Site Name
Availa
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Aylesbury Crescent
A1 LA 2 4 1 3.5 NP NP NP NP 3.5 NP NP NP NP
1.4.16 Aylesbury Crescent: The site is owned and managed by the city council. It hosts 2 x adult pitches. The site is on a pronounced dome. The pitches are rated as
being of standard quality, and there is a changing facility of standard quality. However, the site does appear to have spare capacity to absorb additional play.
1.4.17 Sir John Hunt School: The site is not recorded in the 2018 pitch audit.
Tamerton Foliot
Site Name
Availa
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Mary Deans C
of E Primary School
A1 Education 1 3 2 NP NP NP 3.0 -
1.0 NP NP NP 2.0 NP
1.4.18 Mary Deane C of E Primary School: The site is managed by the school and has 1 x 7v7 mini-soccer pitch. The site is available for community use and is used
by Tamerton Foliot Youth FC (4 teams). The pitch has to be used by both age groups of mini-soccer teams meaning that its true balance is likely to be 2 rather
than 3.
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Devonport/Stonehouse/Stoke
Site Name A
vaila
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Brickfields Sports Centre
A1 LA 2 1 4 2 7 6 2 0.5 -
3.0 1.0 NP NP 0.5 NP 1.0 NP NP
Devonport High School
For Boys A3 Education 1 1
11v11 (FA)
1 2 8 2 NP NP 2.0 2.0 NP AC 1.0 1.0 1.0 NP
Devonport Park
A1 LA 1 1 2 2 1 7 1.5 -
3.5 2.0 NP NP 1.5 NP 2.0 NP NP
Stoke Damerel
Community College
A1 Education 1 1 4 0 1 NP NP 3.5 0.0 NP NP NP 1.5 AC NP
Victoria Park A1 LA 2 4 4 2.0 NP NP NP NP 2.0 NP NP NP NP
1.4.19 Brickfields: This site is owned by the city council and managed by Everyone Active, and hosts 2 x adult, and 1 x youth 9v9 pitches. The site is used by a mixture
of 11 adult and youth teams. As there is no youth 11v11 pitches but 3.0 demand for these pitches it is considered likely that this demand is being met by adult
11v11 pitches. Which would mean these pitches are in actual fact being overplayed by 2.5 match equivalents per week.
1.4.20 There are now two AGPs on site- one long-pile 3G (used only for rugby, and not performance assessed for football) and one sand-filled.
1.4.21 There is a 6-lane synthetic track on the site. The Millbridge FC train on the Manadon AGP. Railway Beacon youth teams train on open ground at Central Park, so
training is discounted at Brickfields. The FA believe that the football pitch in the middle of the athletics track has the potential to be one of the best in the City, if
maintained well and shared with athletics.
1.4.22 Both the pitches and the changing facility are assessed as average/standard quality.
1.4.23 Devonport High School for Boys: The site is managed by the school and hosts 1 x 9 v 9 youth pitch and 1 x 7 v 7 mini-soccer pitches that are used by
Devonport Boys FC. The pitch is assessed as being of average/standard quality, and the changing facility is assessed as good.
1.4.24 The site now has a full-size 3G pitch (replacing the adult grass pitch), and an artificial wicket for a junior cricket field is being developed elsewhere on site. The
3G pitch appears to have teams booked in to use it for match play and training next season.
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1.4.25 Devonport Park: This site is owned and managed by the city council, and hosts 1 x adult and 1 x youth 9v9 pitches. It is considered by the County FA to be a
key site for local league football.
1.4.26 The pitches are rated as being of average/standard quality, and changing facility is of good quality. The adult pitches are thought to be meeting the youth 11v11
demand meaning the adult pitch is actually being overplayed by 2 match equivalents per week.
1.4.27 There is a new, lottery funded, cafe with changing rooms as part of the complex. Teams from Keyham Kolts and Railway Beacon Youth FCs use the site. There
is a mismatch between the adult pitch and junior size teams.
1.4.28 Stoke Damerell College: This site is managed by the college and hosts 1 x youth 9v9 and 1 x mini 7v7 pitches, but there is no known formal use of the grass
pitches. The youth 9v9 pitch is considered to be of good quality but the mini pitch is considered to be poor. The changing facility are rated as being of good
quality. There is a half-size sand-based AGP on the site. The AGP is in heavy demand for training.
1.4.29 The school has stated that improvements are needed to create a full-size AGP, but this is not planned at the moment.
1.4.30 Victoria Park: This council owned and managed site has 2 x adult football pitches. The pitches are rated as standard. The changing accommodation was rated
as poor but in 2018, enhancements took place including a new roof and floor and the facility should now be considered to be of good quality. The pitches
frequently suffer from flooding. Consecutive matches are cancelled resulting in disruption to league match play.
Southway
Site Name
Availa
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Becton Dickinson
C Private 1 2 0 2.0 NP NP NP NP 2.0 NP NP NP NP
Bond Street A1 LA 2 2 NP NP 2.0 NP NP NP NP 2.0 NP NP
1.4.31 Becton Dickinson: The site is privately managed and hosts 1 x adult pitch. There is no demand captured on this site for this study, which is a reduction from the
2014 study which found 1 team, Tamerton Youth FC, playing at the site.
1.4.32 Beechwood Primary School: No supply has been identified for this site by the study. In the 2014 study the site was understood to have 1x Mini 7v7 pitch. The
site has no demand recorded on it.
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1.4.33 Bond Street: This is identified by the County FA as important for local football in the north of the City. The site hosts 2 x 9v9 pitches which are deemed to be of
average/standard quality. There is no changing facility. The site seems to be used by just one Tamerton Youth FC team. There would appear to be scope for
greater use of this site.
Plympton St. Maurice & Yealmpton
Site Name
Availa
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance
Peak Time Match Slot (2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Plympton St. Marys
A1 LA 3 1 6 2 12 2 2 0.0 -1 1.0 NP NP AC NP 1.0 NP NP
1.4.34 Plympton St. Mary’s Recreation Ground: Local authority owned and managed, and hosting 3 x adult and 1 x youth 9v9 pitches. The site is recorded as being
used by 16 teams comprising both adult and youth. Both the pitches and changing facility are rated as being of average/standard quality. An obviously busy and
popular site. But there is a badly potholed car park, and puddles on all pitches (recorded after recent rainfall). There may be an issue with youth teams playing
on wrong-size pitches here. The Chaddlewood teams sometimes train at the 3G at Drake Naval Base. Woodford FC train at Heles School sports hall, so have
been discounted for training on this site. However, the adult pitches have been assessed as being over-played.
1.4.35 The County FA have suggested that the provision of portable goal posts at this site might help to reduce the ‘overplay’ by discouraging informal games.
1.4.36 Old Priory Academy: School-controlled site with no supply or demand identified by this study. In 2014 two mini-soccer teams (Old Priory Academy) were
recorded as playing on 1x Mini 7v7 pitches.
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Honicknowle; Manadon & Widney
Site Name A
vaila
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Chaucer Way
A1 LA 1 2 2 NP 2.0 NP NP NP NP 2.0 NP NP NP
Knowle Battery
A1 LA 2 1 4 2 1 1 3.5 NP 1.5 NP NP 3.5 NP 1.5 NP NP
Manadon Vale
School C Education 1 2 NP NP NP 2.0 NP NP NP NP 2.0 NP
Plymouth Parkway Football
Club
A2 LA 1 3 2 4 1 2 2.0 NP -2.0 -0.5 -1.0 1.0 NP NP NP NP
Sheridan Gardens
A1 LA 1 2 1 2 1.5 -
1.0 NP NP NP 1.5 NP NP NP NP
West Park Playing Field
A1 LA 1 1 2 0.0 NP NP NP NP AC NP NP NP NP
1.4.37 Chaucer Way: Council owned and managed facility (with new changing rooms) on the site of a former primary school, with 1 x adult pitch (small in size). It is
recorded as being used by two adult teams. The pitch and changing facility are recorded as being of average quality. The County FA suggest that ball catch
netting is needed along both touch line areas of this pitch, as teams are continually losing balls.
1.4.38 Knowle Battery: A city council owned and controlled site, with 2 x adult and 1 x youth 9v9 pitches. This is a heavily used site and there are 6 teams recorded as
playing on the site a reduction of 6 since 2014.
1.4.39 Up until recently changing was provided for in a number of container style-units (since removed). The pitches are assessed as being of poor quality. The
changing facilities were assessed as being of standard quality.
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1.4.40 Manadon Vale Primary School: A small site hosting 1 x mini 7v7 pitch, with no changing facilities. No recorded teams playing here.
1.4.41 Plymouth Parkway: This is a club-managed site, hosting 1 x adult pitch. Both the pitch and the changing facility are recorded as being of good quality. The site
is understood to be overplayed due to youth and mini soccer matches being played on the site.
1.4.42 Sheridan Road Playing Field: This is a city council controlled site, hosting 1 x adult pitch. The pitch is assessed, on balance, to be of average/standard quality
(it was the borderline of poor/average via the assessment). The changing facility is recorded as being of poor quality. The site is recorded as being used by 3
teams, and is under-played but only by 0.5 match equivalents per week. Although the relatively low pitch quality might not allow it to absorb much additional play.
1.4.43 St. Boniface’s RC College: The school appears to also rely on the use of other facilities, notably at Derriford Health & Leisure, The Life Centre, and Manadon
AGP. No pitches are understood to be present at the site.
1.4.44 West Park Recreation Ground: This is a city council owned and controlled site, which hosts 1 x adult pitch. It is recorded as being used by two adult teams.
The pitch is assessed as being of average/standard quality, and the changing facility as being of poor quality. The site is considered to be at capacity. There is a
sharp drop from side of pitch. Needs some sort of ball retention screen/fence/hedge.
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Higher Compton & Mannamead; Mutley; Lipson & Laira; Efford
Site Name A
vaila
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Collins Park
A1 LA 3 6 3 NP NP NP 4.5 NP NP NP NP 4.5 NP
Higher Efford
A1 LA 1 1 2 2 3 1 NP 0.5 1.5 NP NP NP 0.5 1.5 NP NP
Lipson Community
Sports & Arts Centre
A1 Education 1 1 1 1 5 5 2 3 4 NP -
1.5 0.0
-1.5
-2 NP AC AC NP NP
Lipson Playing Field
A1 LA 1 0 NP 0.0 NP NP NP NP AC NP NP NP
1.4.45 Collins Park: The site is owned and controlled by the city council and hosts 3 x 7v7 mini-soccer sites. It is used by 10 youth teams. The pitches are assessed as
being of average/standard quality, and there is no changing facility. The site is signed as “Wrigley's Soccer Development Scheme Football Coaching Centre”.
There is likely to be a mismatch between the pitch sizes and some of the teams, as it provides for only mini-soccer.
1.4.46 AC Plymouth Youth train at the 'Goals' facility, and not at Collins Park.
1.4.47 Consultation suggests that AC Plymouth Youth are seeking to obtain their own ground but have not been successful at the time of writing.
1.4.48 The County FA believe that this site can be a key site for youth football. It could host 9v9 and 7v7 pitches. The FA believes there is a need to provide toilets, as a
minimum and look to improve pitch quality and maintenance.
1.4.49 Higher Efford: This is a city council owned and managed site, which hosts 1 x 11v11 youth and 1 x 9v9 youth pitch, used by Friary Mill Youth FC teams. The
pitch is assessed as being of average/standard quality, and the changing facility of poor quality. There is estimated over-play of the site, and a potential
mismatch between pitch sizes and age group needs.
1.4.50 Lipson Community College: This school-controlled site hosts 1 x 11v11 youth and 1 x 9v9 youth pitches. It is the home of Lipson FC and several Sport Lipson
Youth FC teams. The pitches and changing facility are recorded as being of average/standard quality. The pitches are estimated as being over-played. Adult
demand is thought to be met by the youth 11v11 pitches meaning the youth 11v11 pitches are in fact being overplayed by at least 1.5 match equivalents per
week.
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1.4.51 There is also a full-size sand-Dressed AGP on the site. Several adult and youth teams train on the AGP, and the mini soccer teams train on grass. The AGP is
being inspected for possible refurbishment but has not yet been renewed.
1.4.52 Lipson Playing Field: This is a city council owned and managed site, that appears to host 1 x 9v9 youth pitch with very faint markings, and is rated as being of
poor quality, to the extent that there is no capacity attributed to the site. There is no changing facility, and no recorded current formal use. No demand is
attributed to the site. There is considerable sway in goalpost sockets.
1.4.53 Plymouth College: The site has a 60 x 40m sand-based AGP which is available and used by the community. There is no record of regular community use of the
grass pitches.
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Estover, Glenholt & Derriford East
Site Name A
vaila
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Marjon Sport
Centre A1 Education 1
11v11 (FA)
3 10 8 4 6 -
2.0 NP
-2.0
-3.0 NP AC AC NP NP NP
Tor Bridge Sports Centre
A1 Education 2 11v11 (FA)
4 1 3 3 2 NP -
1.5 2.5 NP NP 1.5 0.5 2.5 4 NP
1.4.54 Marjons Sport Centre: This is a University-controlled site, which hosts 1 x adult football pitches. The pitches are rated as being of average/standard quality, and
the changing facility is rated as good. The pitches are heavily used largely by Marjons-based teams (as well as some community teams at youth age groups).
There does appear to be a mismatch between the size of the grass pitch and the needs of younger teams but most of this demand is thought to be on the AGP
pitches where there is greater flexibility of use. The FA believe that the grass pitches require upgrading- perhaps through the FA Pitch Improvement Programme.
1.4.55 There is a full-size 3G (rugby/football compliant) pitch on site. There are also 2x sand-dressed AGPs. It is likely that much of the training now takes place on
AGPs, so that there is no need to train on the grass pitches. The club consultation suggests that there is a strong and growing demand for pitches at this site
which is difficult to fulfil due to peak-time capacity being reached.
1.4.56 Tor Bridge High School: The site is managed by the school, and hosts 2 x 9v9 youth and an AGP. The site is heavily used by several youth and adult teams,
as well as being the venue for the Saints SW Soccer School. Both the pitches and the changing facilities are rated as being of average/standard quality.
1.4.57 There is a full-size 3G AGP. Several senior and youth teams train and play competitive matches on the AGP. The site is thought to be well used but not
overplayed at this stage.
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Ernesettle
Site Name A
vaila
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Ernesettle Green
B LA 1 1 1.0 NP NP NP NP 1.0 NP NP NP NP
Lakeside, Ernesettle
C LA NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP
Parkway Sports &
Social Club A2 LA 1 2 5 3 1 2 1
-0.5
-1.5
-2.0 -0.5 NP AC NP NP NP NP
1.4.58 Ernesettle Green: A city council controlled site. It is now seemingly disused for organised football as the site was not found to carry a football pitch during the
2014 and 2018 PPP audits.
1.4.59 Ernesettle Primary School: The site is school-controlled and there does not appear to be any pitches marked out or any community use of the playing field,
currently.
1.4.60 Lakeside: City Council owned and managed site which was thought to have a football pitch in the past but does not have one any longer.
1.4.61 Parkway Sports and Social Club (Optimus Park): This is a club-controlled site, which hosts 1 x adult pitch assessed as being of average/standard quality. The
changing is rated as being of good quality. The site is used by 12 teams (including two ladies teams) and is over-played. All demand is thought to be placed on
the adult pitches meaning the pitch is overplayed by 3.5 match equivalents. There was a lot of surface water at the time of the site visit. There is a dedicated
training area, so the pitches will not be used heavily for training.
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Barne Barton; Keyham; Morice Town
Site Name A
vaila
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Bull Point C MOD 2 4 1 2 1 3.5 -
1.0 -
0.5 NP NP 3.5 NP NP NP NP
Esturary Way
C MOD 1 2 NP NP 2.0 NP
NP NP
NP 2.0
NP NP
Northdown Playing Field
A1 LA 1 4 3 1 NP NP 1.0 -0.5 NP NP NP 0.5 NP NP
Riverside Primary School
A1 Education 1 0 1 1 NP -
0.5 NP -0.5 NP NP NP NP AC NP
Wyvern Centre
C MoD 11v11 1 NP NP NP NP NP 1.5 NP NP NP NP
1.4.62 Bull Point: This AGP appears now to be largely unavailable. The site’s two grass pitches are used by 4 teams. It is considered likely that teams are playing with
incorrect pitch and goal sizes as there is significant demand from youth 11v11 and 9v9 teams but no provision for these matches to be played on.
1.4.63 Estuary Way: This pitch site is associated with the Bull Point MOD site but is situated away from it. The site has one standard 9v9 pitch but is not used for
community use at the moment and has no secured community access either.
1.4.64 Northdown Playing Field: This council controlled site hosts 1 x 9v9 youth football pitches and is a venue for Keyham Kolts Youth/Junior FC. The pitches are
rated as being able to take 4 matches per week and there is no changing facility. There appears to be a mismatch between pitch sizes and some of the age-
group needs (with respect to the mini-soccer teams).
1.4.65 Riverside Community Primary School: The site is school controlled and hosts 1 x Mini 7v7 pitch that is assessed as being of good quality. There is no
changing facility available. This is a new school. The surface is shared between a youth team and a mini soccer team, and therefore only counts as one pitch
(youth 9 v 9).
1.4.66 Wyvern Centre: This MoD site is not generally considered to be available for community use but does have one team attributed to playing at the site (possibly
due to a personal relationship between the team and the base).
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Widewell
Site Name A
vaila
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Widewell Primary
Academy A3 Education 1 1 2 2 2 3 2 2 2.0 -1 -1.5 1.0 -1.0 NP NP NP 1.0 NP
1.4.67 Widewell School: This school controlled site hosts a standard quality Mini 7v7 pitch. There is no recorded training on this pitch. Belliver FC teams play here,
and there is a mismatch between pitch sizes and the needs of mini-soccer teams. It is understood that use of this site by community teams is largely due to the
enthusiasm and efforts of an individual member of staff. There is significant overplay on this site. It this thought that the youth 11v11 and 9v9 demand must be
taking place on the adult 11v11 pitch that may not have the appropriate sized goal-posts for the age-groups of the matches being played on the site.
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Leigham & Mainstone; Eggbuckland
Site Name A
vaila
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Eggbuckland Community
College A3 LA 2 1
7v7 (FA)
4 2 4 7 7 8 2.0 -
3.5 -1.5 -1.5 NP 2.0 NP AC NP NP
Hoskins Park A2 LA 1 2 2 4 6 4 2.0 -
3.0 2.0 NP NP 2.0 NP 2.0 NP NP
1.4.68 Eggbuckland Community School: This school-controlled site hosts 2 x adult, 1 x 9v9 youth, and 1 x 7v7 AGP, and is a major venue for community football. It is
the venue for Activate teams, amongst others. The pitches and changing facility are assessed as being of average/standard quality, and are heavily used. The
previous action plan suggested that pitch improvements were desirable. It also suggested the need for an AGP, which has now been provided, albeit now
seemingly insufficient due to a lack of size and the fact that the site is still considered to be operating over capacity. Much of the training will take place on the
heavily-used AGP, although mini-soccer teams will also train on the grass areas. The adult pitch is thought to be overplayed by 1.5 match equivalents per week
and the youth 9v9 by 3 match equivalents also.
1.4.69 Eggbuckland Recreation Ground: This council controlled site does not host any pitches, but has been recorded as being used for activity by the Activate
Ladies FC team.
1.4.70 Hoskins Park: The council granted a licence to Chaddlewood Miners for the site which hosts 1 x adult and 2 x youth 9v9 pitches. The pitches are assessed as
being of average/standard quality, and there is no changing facility. The site is used heavily by Chaddlewood Miners Youth FC teams, and there is some
mismatch between pitch sizes and age groups (especially with regard to the adult pitch). The AGP at Plymstock School is sometimes used for training, as are
sports halls. Lack of parking will limit usage. The site is also known to suffer issues with poor drainage.
1.4.71 Leigham Primary School: The site is school controlled and hosts 1 x 7v7 mini-soccer. The pitches are assessed as being of good quality, and there is no
changing facility available. The pitch was used by Marjons Youth FC but is no longer considered to be available for use.
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Elburton & Dunstone; Goosewell
Site Name A
vaila
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Coombe Dean
Sports & Leisure
A1 Education 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 1 0.0 -
1.0 0.5 2.0 NP AC NP 1.5 2.0 NP
Elburton Villa
Football Club
A2 LA 2 1 1 5 2 4 6 4 2 2 2 2.0 -
2.0 1.0 3.0 -1.0 1.0 NP 1.0 1.0 NP
Staddis -combe Playing Fields
A1 LA 10 20 15 12.5 NP NP NP NP 12.5 NP NP NP NP
1.4.72 Coombe Dean School: The school site has 1 x adult, 1 x 9v9 youth, and 1 x 7v7 mini-soccer pitches, which are assessed as being of average/standard quality.
1.4.73 The pitches are used by several Hooe Rovers Youth FC teams. The site also has a half-size AGP. Much of the training is likely to take place on the AGP, and
therefore only mini soccer training has been calculated. The County FA have suggested that as the drainage of site has caused several games to be cancelled,
an FA ‘Pitch Improvement’ visit might be desirable.
1.4.74 Elburton Villa: This club managed site has 2 x adult, 1 x 9v9 youth and 1 x 7v7 pitches which host Elburton Villa’s adult and youth teams, as well as 2 Plymouth
Argyle Youth teams. One the pitches and changing facilities are rated as being of good quality, with the rest of the pitches being rated as average/standard. They
are used heavily, and there may be a mismatch between pitch size and some team needs. The adult pitches are thought to be at capacity.
1.4.75 Staddiscombe Playing Field: This large site is owned by the city council and has recently been invested in for pitch improvements. It hosts 10 x adult pitches.
Both the pitches and the changing facility are rated as being of average/standard quality (although club survey comments suggest that the changing facilities
require improvement). 15 teams are recorded as using this site.
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Turnchapel, Hooe & Oreston
Site Name A
vaila
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Jennycliffe A2 LA 1 2 2.0 NP NP NP NP 2.0 NP NP NP NP
Oreston Recreation
Ground A1 LA 1 2 NP 2.0 NP NP NP NP 2.0 NP NP NP
1.4.76 Jennycliffe: This is a city council controlled site (but leased via a community asset transfer). The site hosts 1 x adult pitch. The pitch and the changing facility are
assessed as being of average/standard quality. The site is not used by community teams.
1.4.77 Oreston Recreation Ground: A council controlled site, but there are no teams recorded as currently playing here, although there is evidence that it has been
used by Hooe Rovers FC, Oreston FC, and Plymstock United FC in the past. The site has 1 x adult pitch, but it is thought to be under-sized. The pitch is
assessed as being of average/standard quality, and there are no changing facilities. The pitch is recorded as having reasonable grass cover, but very worn goal
mouths. The goal posts are also considered to be of poor quality.
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Plymstock & Radford
Site Name A
vaila
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Deans Cross
A2 LA 1 2 1 3 4 4 2 3 3 3 2.0 -
1.5 2.5 2.5 NP 1.0 NP 2.5 0.5 NP
Foresters Field
A2 LA 1 1 5 1.0 -
2.5 NP NP NP 2.0 NP NP NP NP
Plymstock Community
Sports Centre
A1 Education 11v11 (FA)
1 1 5 -
0.5 NP NP NP NP NP NP NP AC
1.4.78 Deans Cross This council controlled site hosts 4 pitches; 1x adult 11v11, 2x youth 9v9, 1x mini 7v7. The site has significant youth 11v11 demand but no
dedicated pitches indicating that some matches are taking place on pitches with inappropriate pitch and goal dimensions.
1.4.79 Foresters’ Field: This council controlled site hosts 1 x adult pitch. Both the pitches and the changing facility are rated as being of average/ standard quality. The
site is heavily used by youth teams of Plymstock United FC and the adult pitch is thought to be overplayed by youth 11v11 demand.
1.4.80 Foresters Field is separate but adjacent to (and can be accessed from) Deans Cross. Part of the cricket outfield is shared with football pitches. There is no
changing unit on the Forrester's Field. There is a mismatch between youth age groups and pitch sizes.
1.4.81 Plymstock Community Sport Centre: This school controlled site has 1 x 11v11 AGP. The site is heavily used by Morley Rangers FC youth teams as well as
the Goals Soccer School (which will use the AGP, largely). Plymstock CC have also used the site for cricket. Local teams will use the AGP for some matches
and training, and this activity has been discounted.
1.4.82 This site is clearly not just important for football, but also for local cricket interests.
1.4.83 Pomphlett Primary School: This school controlled site was recorded as having a 1 x 7v7 mini-soccer pitch rated as good quality in 2014. However, there is no
record of such a pitch during the 2018 audit and therefore the site is now considered a Category D site.
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Greenbank & University; City Centre; East End; Mount Gould
Site Name
Availa
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Astors B LA 1 0 NP 0.0 NP NP NP NP AC NP NP NP
Milllbay Park
A2 MoD 1 3 2 2.0 NP NP NP NP 1.0 NP NP NP NP
Prince Rock
Playing Fields
A1 LA 1 2 1 NP NP 2.0 NP NP NP NP 2.0 NP NP
Tothll Enclosure
A1 LA 1 1 1 1 1 1 0.5
NP 0.5 NP
NP 0.5 NP
1.5 NP NP
Tothill Park
A1 LA 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 0.0 -0.5 0.5 NP NP AC NP 1.5 NP NP
1.4.84 Astors: Posts in place but no markings. This pitch should therefore be considered more of an informal football space than a dedicated playing pitch.
1.4.85 Millbay Park: This is a MoD site that has some use by adult community teams, it appears. There is 1 x adult pitch with changing facilities. The pitch would
appear to be in excellent condition. The site is categorised as in the A3 class (similar to schools used by the community). However, there is very little long-term
security of tenure for community clubs, as MoD needs will take priority.
1.4.86 Prince Rock Playing Field: This council controlled site has 1 x youth 9v9 pitch. The pitch is rated as being of average/standard quality, and there is no changing
facility. One youth 11v11 team is recorded as playing on site and is therefore considered to be playing with incorrect goal and pitch dimensions. This site has
been identified by Plymouth City Council for urban development as part of the Joint Local Plan. Plymouth City Council are working with Sport England to find a
way of mitigating the loss of this site. It must be protected as playing pitches in the JLP and should be covered by policy ES2 (overall strategic policy)
Playing Pitches Delivery Plan for the Plymouth Policy Area (PPA): Needs Assessment- Core Sports
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1.4.87 Tothill Enclosure: A PCC site predominantly used by Mount Gould FC. The site hosts two pitches, an Adult 11v11 pitch and a Youth 9v9 pitch.
1.4.88 Tothill Park: This council controlled site hosts 1 x adult and 1 x 9v9 youth pitches. The pitches and the changing facility are rated as being of poor quality, with
the adult pitch considered undersized. It is used by a mix of adult and youth teams. Very worn and indented goal mouths. The changing rooms are old and
dated, but clean. The County FA believe that both the changing accommodation and the pitches require improvement.
1.4.89 Windmill FC train on an AGP at Torbridge High School, so their training on this site has been discounted.
1.4.90 Taking into account the quality of the pitches and training needs, the pitches are assessed to be overcapacity.
St, Budeaux & Kings Tamerton
Site Name
Availa
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Marine Academy Plymouth
A1 Education 1 1 2 1 0.5 1.5 5 5 3 2 1.0 -2.5 -2.0 0.0 -1.0 2.0 NP AC AC NP
1.4.91 Marine Academy: This school controlled site has 1 x adult, 1 x 9v9 youth and 1 x 7v7 mini. The pitches and the changing facility are both rated as being of
average/standard quality. There are 15 teams of various age groups using the site- all run by Marine Academy FC.
1.4.92 Given the number of teams, quality of pitches and the need to train, all pitches are likely to be over-played. A proposed 3G AGP has previously been refused on
planning appeal.
1.4.93 This is an extremely heavily used site for community football, with capacity issues, which would be alleviated greatly by the provision of a 3G pitch.
Playing Pitches Delivery Plan for the Plymouth Policy Area (PPA): Needs Assessment- Core Sports
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Ham & Pennycross
Site Name A
vaila
bili
ty
Ow
ners
hip
Pitches Pitch Capacity Teams playing on site Capacity Balance Peak Time Match Slot
(2x match slots per session)
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
3G
AG
P
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
Adult
Youth
11v11
Youth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
All Saints Academy
A1 Education 1 2 1 1 1 4 4 4 2 0.5 -
1.0 -
2.0 -
2.0 -
1.0 1.5 AC NP NP NP
Manadon Playing Fields (Treveneague
Gardens)
A2 LA 1 2 2 8 2 6 3 -2.0 -
3.0 0.5 6.5 NP NP NP 0.5 4.0 NP
1.4.94 All Saints Academy: This school controlled site hosts 1 x adult and 2 x 11v11 youth pitches that are rated as being average/standard quality. The changing
facility is rated as being of good quality. The main user of this site is the multi-youth team, YMCA All Saints. Two Special Olympics adult teams are also recorded
as playing at the site, but they have been excluded as regular users. There is some mismatch of pitches and sizes. The youth pitches would appear to be over-
used, but in reality some of the youth teams would be likely to play on the adult pitch. There is no dedicated provision for the mini-soccer team. All pitches on the
site are considered likely to be overplayed.
1.4.95 Treveneague Gardens: The site is controlled by the city council, and is used mainly by female teams. It has 1 x 9v9 youth and 2 x 7v7 mini soccer pitches. Both
the pitches and the changing facility are rated as a (low) average/standard quality. Use is quite light as there are only three teams recorded on the site. This site
is used by AFC Plympton Youth u11, u13, 15 although they are also recorded as using Manadon Recreation Ground. The SB Frankfort team that play here train
outside the area, and so their training on this site has been discounted. The pitch is rated as being of poor quality, and there is no changing facility.
1.4.96 The teams using site state that they use the marginal land to train, so no additional pressures have been recorded on the pitches due to squad training. The adult
and junior demand is expected to be met by temporarily marked out pitches (possibly over the Mini Soccer pitches) meaning the site is likely to be overplayed.
Page 36 of 126
1.5 A city-wide overview of supply and demand
Figure 1.13 – City-wide assessment of use versus notional capacity
Pitch Type Adult 11v11
Youth 11v11
Youth 9v9
Mini 7v7
Mini 5v5
Total
1. All Supply - Total Demand 39.5 -32.0 23.5 32.5 -7.5 56
2. All Supply - Current Plymouth Use 44.0 -31.0 24.5 33.5 -6.0 65
3. Securely Accessible Pitches (A1 & A2) - Total Demand
20.5 -32.0 19.5 12.5 -7.5 13
4. Securely Accessible Pitches (A1 & A2) - Current Plymouth Use
25.0 -31.0 20.5 13.5 -6.0 22
1.5.1 The preceding neighbourhood and site-by-site analysis can be converted into a city-wide picture of use
and capacity. In terms of estimated use of grass pitches relative to notional capacity. An interesting note
for the table is that it illustrates that all youth 11v11 supply is provided by A1 and A2 pitches in Plymouth,
save for 1 exported match equivalent of demand, hence the lack of variance across each analysis row.
1.5.2 The site by site analysis identifies numerous sites where youth 11v11 demand is being played on adult
pitches. Figure 1.13 shows that when all demand attributed to the city is considered (analysis 3) there is
insufficient capacity of 11v11 pitches to meet the combined adult and youth demand in the city. This
undersupply is the equivalent to 11.5 match sessions per week (the equivalent of 23 teams).
1.5.3 If all LA maintained and managed pitches were increased to standard / average pitches, there would be
an increase in capacity of 16 match equivalent per week across all pitch types. Youth 11v11 capacity
would increase by 3.0 match equivalents per week.
1.5.4 If all education facilities increased the quality of their pitches to standard, then there would be a net
increase of 37.5 mepw across all pitch types also.
1.5.5 Most tellingly, if all A1 and A2 accessible pitches were to be considered standard / average quality,
capacity across Plymouth would be increased by 35.5 mepw. However, the increase in capacity for Adult
11v11 and Youth 11v11 pitches is just 4.5 mepw across the whole study area. If all A1 and A2 were
improved to a good pitch rating, capacity across all Adult 11v11 and Youth 11v11 pitches would increase
by 58.5 mepw per week. Under this scenario, the current pitch stock would theoretically have enough
capacity to meet current demand for 11v11 pitches, with over 40 mepw of spare capacity across the city.
1.5.6 The following figure aggregates the figures for all the sites to form city-wide totals of peak-time capacity.
As stated above, there is a convention within the city of some sites hosting 2 matches consecutively on
the same pitches during the same match sessions throughout much of the season, this analysis has
been used to show the aggregate peak-time balance within the city.
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Figure 1.14 – Net supply of A1 and A2 (only) pitches at times of peak demand
Measure Adult 11v11
Youth 11v11
Youth 9v9
Mini 7v7
Mini 5v5
1x slot per session
Spare Capacity (in match slots)
15 4 13 8.5 1.5
Sites At Capacity 16 7 11 7 0
2x slots per session
Spare Capacity (in match slots)
42.0 9.5 32 21 3.5
Sites At Capacity 7 5 5 4 0
1.5.7 Figure 1.14 shows that along with significant overplay of sites there is limited spare match slots available
for youth 11v11 pitches. It should be noted that unlike the capacity analysis where sites can have
negative supply balances to represent overplay, it is not possible to have overplay in the peak-time
analysis. Therefore, small amounts of availability indicate that the city is operating very close to full
capacity for that pitch type.
1.5.8 The aggregate capacity analysis therefore shows that:
• There is insufficient capacity within the 11v11 pitch supply (adult and youth combined) to
meet demand without pitches being overplayed.
• When all demand originating from Plymouth (including that exported to neighbouring South
Hams) is modelled against the supply in Plymouth, there is spare capacity for just 10 match
equivalents per week across all pitch types.
• There are sufficient peak time match slots to meet demand in the city but when only one
session is considered at peak-time, there is limited spare capacity amongst youth 11v11 and
mini 5v5 teams to play on dedicated pitches.
1.6 Scenario testing (b): The Future
FUTURE PICTURE OF PROVISION
1.6.1 The future requirement for playing pitches will be impacted by several factors, including;
A. changes to the number of people living in the area and / or to the demographic profile of the population;
B. changes in participation trends and in how pitch sports are played;
C. amendments to the current facility stock either through the provision of new pitches or the loss of current pitches.
1.6.2 These issues are considered in turn in order to build a picture of future demand for playing pitches.
TEAM GENERATION RATES AND FUTURE NATURAL POPULATION CHANGE IN THE POPULATION
1.6.3 Team Generation Rates (TGRs) indicate how many people in a specified age group are required to
generate one team. TGRs are derived by dividing the appropriate population age band by the number of
teams playing within that area in that age band. By applying TGRs to natural population growth
projections, we can project the theoretical number of teams that would be generated from natural
population growth and gain an understanding of future demand.
1.6.4 Figure 1.15 summarises the current TGRs for football in Plymouth and uses them to assess the potential
impact of projected changes to the population profile on demand for football.
Page 38 of 126
Figure 1.15 - TGRs and Potential Change to Number of Football Teams in Plymouth: 2018-2034
Age Group No. of teams in age group
Current population in
age group
Future population in age group
(2034)
Current TGR
Population Change in Age
Group
Potential Change in Team Numbers
Total Number of Projected Teams
(2034)
Football Adult Men 11v11 (16-45yrs)
111 57,045 61,742 514 4,697 9.1 120.1
Football Adult Women 11v11 (16-45yrs)
12 52,828 57,178 4,402 4,350 1.0 13.0
Football Youth Boys11v11 (12-15yrs)
86 5,363 6,159 62 796 12.8 98.8
Football Youth Girls 11v11 (12-15yrs)
18 5,227 5,987 290 760 2.6 20.6
Football Youth Boys 9v9 (10-11yrs)
53 2,961 3,092 56 131 2.3 55.3
Football Youth Girls 9v9 (10-11yrs)
7 2,899 3,000 414 101 0.2 7.2
Football Mini Soccer Mixed 7v7 (8-9yrs)
54 5,970 6,462 111 492 4.4 58.4
Football Mini Soccer Mixed 5v5 (6-7yrs)
31 5,970 6,462 193 492 2.6 33.6
Source: Population data: Office of National Statistics, 2016-based Subnational Population Projections: 2018-2034 (May 2018) incorporating Plymouth and South Devon Joint Local Plan Housing Trajectory.
Page 39 of 126
1.6.5 The above table shows that:
• Adult Football – looking ahead to 2034, an increase in the number of adults aged between
16 and 45 will create additional demand equivalent to 10 adult football teams (5 match
equivalents per week);
• Youth Football – increases to an additional 18 youth football teams (9 match equivalents
per week);
• Mini Soccer - between 2018 and 2034 the number of young people aged between 6 and 9
(the age groups that typically play mini soccer) is projected to increase, creating additional
demand equivalent to 7 mini soccer teams (3.5 match equivalents per week) by 2034
PLANNED CHANGE IN THE POPULATION
1.6.6 The above projects the change in team numbers arising out of natural change in the population up to
2034. There is also a need to consider any additional teams generated from population change resulting
from planned new development. The estimated population of the City in 2034 based on natural
population trends alone is predicted to be c. 275,000. The precise housing growth allocations to be
catered for in the emerging new development plan is currently not determined. However, as stated in the
PCC strategic housing projections for the city, there is a strong suggestion that there may be a need to
cater for a city population of around 300,000 by 2034, based on a growing employment base, and new
residents therefore being attracted into the area. This suggests an additional 39,462 beyond those
catered for in the above calculations.
1.6.7 It is assumed that the age structure of this additional 39,462 people is similar to the present population,
then an application of the above TGRs would suggest a possible:
• 14.5 adult football teams (7.25 match equivalents per week);
• 14.8 male and female youth football teams (7.4 match equivalents per week); and
• 7.6 mini-soccer teams (3.8 match equivalents per week).
1.6.8 When adding the above to team changes resulting from natural change in population, the estimated net
change in teams arising from natural and planned population change is calculated to be:
• 21.5 adult football teams (10.75 match equivalents per week)
• 45.8 male and female youth football teams (22.9 match equivalents per week)
• 13.6 mini-soccer teams (6.8 match equivalents per week)
1.6.9 The combined effects of both natural and population change will therefore put significant pressure on the
existing football pitch stock, and especially in relation to junior/youth football. This is shown below in
figure 1.16.
Figure 1.16 – Impact on Projected demand on projected supply and demand balances
Pitch Type Adult 11v11
Youth 11v11
Youth 9v9
Mini 7v7
Mini 5v5
Total
1. All Supply - Total Demand 28.3 -45.6 13.7 28.2 -10.0 14.6
2. All Supply vs Current Plymouth Use 32.8 -44.6 14.7 29.2 -8.5 23.6
3. Securely Accessible Pitches (A1 & A2) - Total Demand
9.3 -45.6 9.7 8.2 -10.0 -28.4
4. Securely Accessible Pitches (A1 & A2) - Current Plymouth Use
13.8 -44.6 10.7 9.2 -8.5 -19.4
1.6.10 The combined effects of both natural and population change will put significant pressure on the existing
football pitch stock, and especially if the demand generated within the city must be meet only with A1 and
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A2 pitches. Should this be the case (in a worst-case scenario), this can be said to be insufficient capacity
within the city to meet projected demand.
CHANGES IN PARTICIPATION TRENDS AND HOW SPORT IS PLAYED (2014)
1.6.11 Although population growth will influence demand, changes in participation may perhaps have the most
significant impact on demand for playing pitches.
1.6.12 Changes to youth football have only been introduced in the last year (including the creation of 5 v 5 and 9
v 9) and as such, the impact is not yet fully apparent. The FA indicate that in pilot areas, the introductions
of these new formats have seen an increase in the number of teams playing and greater retention of
players through the older age groups. In particular;
• where historically two 7 v 7 teams would merge to become one 11 v 11 team when starting to
play junior football, now the two teams will seek additional players and instead of merging will
remain as two 9 v 9 teams; and
• the same will happen at 9 v 9 age groups, where 9 v 9 teams transition to 11 v 11 teams, they
will stay as two teams and seek additional players instead of merging.
1.6.13 The FA therefore believe that there will be an increase in the overall number of teams (and participants)
in future years as a result of the youth review and that higher levels of demand will occur as a result. In
this event:
• the already insufficient stock of age appropriate junior football pitches would become even
more constrained, and mini soccer pitches (7 v 7 and 5 v 5) would also become insufficient;
and
• if issues relating to the drop off in the transition between junior and senior football were
addressed however, the spare capacity currently seen in adult football pitches may also
become constrained.
1.6.14 A number of football initiatives are also being implemented by Sport England, focusing on 14 – 24 year
olds, and this is similarly expected by the FA to increase the number of teams being formed.
1.6.15 If the stock of football pitches in secured community use remains the same, the above additional teams
will place further demands upon the pitch stock. Firstly, they will compound issues in relation to wear and
tear on existing pitches, many of which will be used both for matches and training. Secondly, they will
impact upon the net supply of pitches at times of peak demand. Figures 1.13, and 1.14 indicated the net
balance of supply of adult, youth, and mini-soccer pitches respectively, based on the current level of
provision. Assuming that the currently times of peak demand remain the same over the coming years,
the above additional teams and match requirements would have the following temporal impact on the
demand for pitches.
FORTHCOMING CHANGES IN SUPPLY
1.6.16 There are plans in hand for the development of improved football facilities in Central Park (see below). In
addition, there are proposals for the development of additional AGPs in parts of the City, and these
include potential facilities at Heles’ School and Sherford. Some of these proposals have to overcome
planning and developmental issues and concerns. (For example, at the time of writing this report a
proposal for a full-size 3G pitch at the Marine Academy had been refused on appeal. The school was
exploring options for the provision of a reduced size pitch). It should be noted that the facilities being
installed as part of the Sherford development are principally intended to meet demand created by the
new community.
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1.6.17 The initial aspirations suggest that most, if not all these surfaces, are likely to be proposed as 3G, which
would be suitable for football (but not suited to hockey, as reported in the relevant section of this report.
1.6.18 More specifically, the city council is currently in discussions with relevant interests about the following
proposals.
1.6.19 Bond Street: Bond Street is a large area of open space currently maintained by Street Services. It is
currently recorded as hosting 2 x 9v9 pitches. However, ground conditions and lack of changing facilities
has now left much of the site redundant (except as public open space).
1.6.20 The project would create a new football community hub at the Bond Street Playing Fields site (including
part of a parcel of land that once formed the Southway Primary School site). The playing pitch
improvement works would include levelling and drainage with new ancillary facilities for changing and car
parking. This football community hub would provide suitable pitches for age-group advancement from
mini soccer through to the adult game.
1.6.21 It is noted that the FA believe additional provision nearby is required as one of the pitches cannot be
accommodated on the Bond Street site due to a mains water pipe located close to the surface. The
effectual loss of this pitch should be mitigated by replacing it with like-for-like provision at a nearby site to
avoid a net-loss of facilities.
1.6.22 The proposed improvement of this site would lead to 1 x adult and 1 x mini-soccer pitch being reinstated
into the area.
1.6.23 (Former) Civil Service Sports Ground: Although much of this site is to be lost to alternative use, two adult
football pitches and changing accommodation is to be provided. Compensatory off-site provision is also
offered (largely in the process of being provided at Manadon). The proposals will lead to the provision of
2 x adult pitches and changing accommodation. (The larger sports ground has been closed to sports
use, for some time now).
1.6.24 Central Park: Plymouth City Council has committed to undertaking a programme of improvements to
Central Park. The overall ambition is identified in the Master plan for Central Park that was adopted by
the Council in March 2013. This plan has relevance to other pitch sports as well, and will therefore be re-
visited in other sports specific sections.
1.6.25 Central Park is the largest park in Plymouth covering 94 hectares (232 acres). It was originally created in
1928 as a park devoted to the improvement of the health of city residents. The Master plan was created
as a response to the need identified in the Central Park Area Action Plan (AAP) for a comprehensive
strategy of improvement to ensure the park achieves its potential as a key public space for the City.
1.6.26 Plymouth City Council has worked with a wide range of stakeholders to develop the Master plan for
Central Park and the Sports Plateau has been identified as the priority for sports pitch enhancements.
1.6.27 The Sports Plateau is the first in a series of proposed enhancements to sports pitches in Central Park.
The pitches previously located on the site were prone to heavy water logging throughout the autumn and
winter which severely restricts their use. The proposed enhancements will significantly improve drainage
and re-arrange the site to provide: 3 x youth football pitches (as well as 1 x artificial cricket wicket and 1 x
senior rugby pitch). Changing provision is also to be provided in the new Community Sports Hub in the
park.
1.6.28 The improved and additional facilities created at the Central Park Sports Plateau will play an essential
role by providing an increased capacity of football pitches and a site that will be robust and sustainable in
the years to come.
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1.6.29 Other proposed works at the site include 2 x junior football pitches and 4 x mini soccer pitches. Although
it should be noted that further investigation to the ground conditions on site needs to be completed
before any of these future pitch projects are confirmed.
1.6.30 A proposed linked development related to Plymouth Argyle FC facilities will provide new changing
accommodation.
1.6.31 It should be noted that the works at Central Park have not impacted on the overall hectarage of available
playing pitch space that could potentially be used for pitches. However, these ground-works are
expected to significantly increase the quality and carrying capacity of the land subject to the works.
1.6.32 The changes in the provision at Central Park would lead to the net loss/gain of -2 x adult pitches; +5 x
junior pitches; and, +4 x mini-soccer pitches.
1.6.33 Manadon Football Development Centre: This is owned by the city council, and partly managed by the
YMCA. There is no current formal use of the grass pitches, which are recorded as being of poor quality
(1x 9v9 and 1x7v7). There is a full-size, 3G AGP on this site which was upgraded from a sand-based
pitch in 2017. With reference to the underused pitches, there are posts in place, but no recent markings.
The derelict former changing containers on site have now been removed. These pitches have been
counted in the pitch audit so would not yield a change in the pitch provision numbers presented in this
report.
1.6.34 Higher Efford: The project includes the improvement of the playing pitches at Higher Efford and the
Former Plym View Primary School in addition to the construction of a new two team changing facility at
Higher Efford.
1.6.35 In addition to an overall shortfall in playing pitch quantity many of the existing pitches in Plymouth suffer
from a lack of quality. This is particularly relevant for Higher Efford where drainage and pitch surface
issues prevent the facilities being used to their full potential. The lack of suitable changing rooms also
contributes to the underuse of the facility.
1.6.36 Improving the playing pitches and providing new changing facilities will enable this asset to be used to its
full potential. This will enable greater participation in sport in Efford and the City as a whole.
1.6.37 The proposed improvement of this site would lead to no net gain in pitches, but improved facilities,
including better surfaces/drainage, and changing accommodation.
1.6.38 Saltram Meadows: The master planning for this facility includes a 9v9 3G AGP pitch on site which is
expected to have a 40mm pile but no floodlights.
1.6.39 Plymouth Parkway Social Club: The site is undergoing a pitch improvement programme, but the final
layout of the site is yet to be established.
1.6.40 Boringdon Estate: New pitches to be added to the area through developer contribution. It is believed
these pitches will have a youth 11v11 focus but are primarily focused on providing pitches for the new
residents of the area.
1.6.41 Sherford Development: Technically in South Hams, this development is expected to attract users from
the city. The site will have an AGP pitch as part of its facility mix, which is expected to be sand dressed. It
should be noted that the new facilities added here will be primarily aimed at addressing the demand
created by the new community.
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1.7 Scenario testing (c): the impact of planned/potential additional provision
1.7.1 The above changes improvements in provision would therefore lead to an estimated net improvement in
the local pitch supply.
Figure 1.17 – Pitches added by new development
Adult Football Junior Football Mini-soccer 3G AGP Sand AGP
+1 + 6 + 5 +1 9v9 +1 Full sized
1.7.2 The junior provision proposed would make a significant contribution to offsetting the lack of projected
available capacity to play junior/youth football assumed in the earlier Figure 1.16. Figure 1.18 below
shows the predicted/supply demand balance with the additional pitches (as detailed in figure 1.17)
included in the supply. These pitches have been assumed to be of standard quality (meaning adult and
youth pitches are assumed to have a carrying capacity of 2mepw and mini pitches 4mepw). All junior
pitches are assumed to be youth 11v11 because it pitch type is not specified and youth 11v11 pitches
are overplayed by the greatest amount.
Figure 1.18 – Projected supply and demand balance with additional pitches
Pitch Type Adult 11v11
Youth 11v11
Youth 9v9
Mini 7v7
Mini 5v5
Total
Project Securely Accessible Pitches (A1 & A2) - Total Projected Demand
12.3 -32.6 9.7 25.2 -10.0 4.6
1.7.3 Figure 1.18 shows that, in theory, the additional pitch capacity will reduce the deficit of theoretical
capacity in A1 and A2 pitches across all pitch supply to 1.06mepw. However, it should be noted that the
new pitch supply will fail to address the net shortfall of provision in 11v11 pitches (adult and youth 11v11
combined). Even where all new 'junior' football pitches have been assumed to be youth 11v11for the
purposes of this analysis, the net projected deficit is estimated to be -22.3mepw.
1.7.4 Following the work of the previous PPS, there has been significant changes to the way pitch space has
been utilised. This is thought to be due to clubs and site managers remarking pitches to meet their
needs. It is thought part of the reduction of pitches maybe due to sites rotating the spaces used for
pitches to minimise wear and tear. It should be noted that the reduction of pitch numbers does not
necessarily mean a reduction in playing pitch land in Plymouth.
1.7.5 It should also be noted that it may be possible to open up community use programmes at selected
schools. Candidate schools are detailed in the action plan of this report.
1.7.6 The figure below shows how pitch marking has changed between 2014 and 2018 and where more
playing pitch space may potentially be available.
1.7.7 To match site names across the 2014 and 2018 audit, the table below uses the following key:
Site recorded in 2018 and 2014 Audit
Recorded in the 2014 audit but not recorded in 2018 audit
Recorded in the 2014 adult but not recorded in 2018 football audit - but protected by inclusion in other sports
Recorded in 2018 but not in the 2014 audit
Page 44 of 126
Figure 1.19 – Changes to pitch layout 2014-2018
Site Name in 2018 audit
2018 Audit Change from 2014 audit
Nature of Change
Amalgamated Comments from the Devon FA, Sport England
and Plymouth City Council
Lo
ss o
f p
layin
g
pit
ch
sp
ace?
Additional pitches possible from previous
configuration?
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
# Pitch Type
Astors 0 1 0
0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1x Youth 11v11 added Not currently used due to poor condition. Could be used if levels are improved.
No - -
Aylesbury Crescent
2 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 -1 0 0
-1 1x Youth 9v9 not marked
The site has previously had three pitches in the past and could have a third pitch added if required
No 1 Youth 9v9
Beechwood Primary School 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -1 0
-1 Site no longer available for community use and not marked
The site was not recorded as being available for community use at the time of the data was collected. It is understood there is space for a 9v9 pitch on the site
No 1 Youth 9v9
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Site Name in 2018 audit
2018 Audit Change from 2014 audit
Nature of Change
Amalgamated Comments from the Devon FA, Sport England
and Plymouth City Council
Lo
ss o
f p
layin
g
pit
ch
sp
ace?
Additional pitches possible from previous
configuration?
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
# Pitch Type
Bull Point 2 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 0
2 2x additional adult pitches marked
Considered "available" during this study but as this is under MOD control this could be subject to change at short notice and with limited ability to prevent this change.
No - -
Central Park Playing Fields
2 0 2 0 0 4 -2 0 0 0 0 -2 2x adult 11v11 pitches not marked
Construction of upgraded pitches and lack of changing provision in the park has reduced the number of marked pitches.
No - -
Chaucer Way 0 1 0
0 0 1 -1 1 0 0 0 0 Adult pitch re-marked as youth 11v11
Pitch re-classified from and adult 11v11 to a youth 11v11 as the 'adult' pitch was considered too small.
No - -
Eggbuckland Community
College 2 0 1 0 0 3 -1
-2 1 -2 0 -4
1x adult and 2x youth 11v11 not marked, one of these pitches has been re-marked as a youth 9v9. 2x mini 7v7 not marked
Pitches reconfigured by the school and are only available to the community at its discretion.
No 4
2x Adult 11v11 and 2x Mini 7v7
Elburton Villa Football Club
2 0 1 1 0 4 0 -1 0 1
0 0 1x Youth 11v11 re-marked as a mini 7v7 pitch
Youth 11v11 remarked as a Mini 7v7 pitch
No - -
Ernesettle Green
1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1
1x additional adult pitch marked
No additional comments made No - -
Esturary Way 0 0 1 0 0 1
0 0 1 0 0 1 1x additional youth 9v9 marked
A smaller adult pitch as the pitch space has been reduced due to the playpark and MUGA that have been installed. Also the pitch is quite close to the road meaning it isn't especially appealing for users
Yes - -
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Site Name in 2018 audit
2018 Audit Change from 2014 audit
Nature of Change
Amalgamated Comments from the Devon FA, Sport England
and Plymouth City Council
Lo
ss o
f p
layin
g
pit
ch
sp
ace?
Additional pitches possible from previous
configuration?
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
# Pitch Type
Glen Park Primary School
0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1
0 1 1x additional mini 7v7 marked
1x additional mini 7v7 marked No - -
Harpers Park 2 0
0 0 0 2 1 0 -2 0 0 -1 1 youth 9v9 not marked, 1x re-marked as an adult pitch.
2014 data considered inaccurate. Pitches used by Plymouth Argyle with no community use. Confirmed as having 2 adult pitches on site.
No - -
Hele's School 0 1 0 1 0 2 -1 0 0
1 0 0 1x adult pitch re-marked as a mini 7v7
1x adult pitch re-marked as a mini 7v7 and is used by the local community for football use.
No 1 Mini 7v7
Higher Efford 0 1 1 0 0 2 -1 1 0 0 0 0
1x adult pitch re-marked as a youth 11v11
1x adult pitch re-marked as a youth 11v11 No -
-
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Site Name in 2018 audit
2018 Audit Change from 2014 audit
Nature of Change
Amalgamated Comments from the Devon FA, Sport England
and Plymouth City Council
Lo
ss o
f p
layin
g
pit
ch
sp
ace?
Additional pitches possible from previous
configuration?
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
# Pitch Type
Higher Efford East
0 0 0 0 2 2
0 0 0 0 2 2 2x additional mini 5v5 pitches marked
The site is currently not in use due to the upgrading works. After which the site will continue to provide 2x 5 v 5 mini soccer pitches.
No - -
Home Park (Plymouth Argyle FC)
1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0
0 1 1x additional adult pitch marked
Plymouth Argyle's stadium pitch. No community use
No - -
Hooe Primary Academy
0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1
1x additional mini 7v7 marked
1x additional mini 7v7 marked which was not picked up in the 2014 audit
No -
-
Hoskins Park 1 0 2 0 0 3 0
-1 1 0 0 0 1x youth 11v11 re-marked as youth 9v9
It is possible to go back to a youth 11v11 if/when required
No - -
Leigham Primary School 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -1 -2 -3
1x min 7v7 and 2x mini 5v5 no longer marked
No longer Used by Plymouth Marjon Youth FC. No pitches are considered to be marked on the site any longer, but this is at the school's discretion. It is not known why the club left this site. There has been no loss of playing pitch space at this site
No 3
1x Mini 7v7 and 2x Mini 5v5
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Site Name in 2018 audit
2018 Audit Change from 2014 audit
Nature of Change
Amalgamated Comments from the Devon FA, Sport England
and Plymouth City Council
Lo
ss o
f p
layin
g
pit
ch
sp
ace?
Additional pitches possible from previous
configuration?
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
# Pitch Type
Lipson Community
Sports & Arts Centre
0 1 1 0 0 2 -1 0 1 -1 0
-1 1x adult football re-marked as youth 9v9. 1x mini 7v7 not marked
No net loss of pitch space. The pitches could be brought back into use if required.
No 1 Mini 7v7
Lipson Playing Field
0 1
0 0 0 1 0 1 -1 0 0 0 1x youth 9v9 remarked as youth 11v11
It is possible to go back to a youth 9v9 if/when required
No -
-
Manadon Football
Development Centre
0 0 1 1 0 2 -1
0 1 1 0 1 1x adult re-marked as a youth 9v9. 1x additional mini 7v7
The number is accurate, but this will be subject to further change due to further development on site
No - -
Manadon Vale School
0 0 0 1 0 1 0 -1
0 1 0 0 1x youth 11v11 re-marked as mini 7v7
There is potential that this site will change to a youth 9v9 next and then an 11v11 in next few years if linked to a community sport team.
No - -
Marine Academy Plymouth
1 0 1
2 0 4 0 -1 0 0 -1 -2 1x youth 11v11 and 1x mini 5v5 not marked
There is no loss of grass pitch area. All pitches could be reintroduced if needed.
No 2
1x Adult 11v11 and 1x Mini 5v5
Marjon Sport Centre
1 0 0
0 0 1 -1 0 0 0 0 -1 1x adult pitch not marked
Pitch space lost as used for a sand-dressed AGP
Yes - -
Mayflower Community
School 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -1 -1 0 0 -2
Site no longer available. Was used by Keyham Colts. Pitch space is still there but no-longer marked
No loss of pitch space so this pitch could be considered as part of the future supply if required.
No 1 Adult 11v11
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Site Name in 2018 audit
2018 Audit Change from 2014 audit
Nature of Change
Amalgamated Comments from the Devon FA, Sport England
and Plymouth City Council
Lo
ss o
f p
layin
g
pit
ch
sp
ace?
Additional pitches possible from previous
configuration?
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
# Pitch Type
Northdown Playing Field
0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 -1 0 0 -1 1x youth 9v9 no longer
marked
There are no changing rooms. Since the data was collated an 9v9 has been added to the site. Now the PCC are in talks with the club about extending the 9v9 to an 11v11.
No 1 Youth 11v11
Old Priory Academy 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0 0 -1 0 -1
Site no longer available. Was used by Old Priory Academy FC - now disbanded. Mini 7v7 pitch no longer marked
The site could be considered as part of the future supply as there has been no net loss of pitches here.
No 1 Mini 7v7
Oreston Recreation
Ground 0 1 0 0 0 1 -1 1 0
0 0 0
1x youth 11v11 no longer marked
The site is considered to be of poor quality. There are no changing or toilet facilities here. However, there is, no loss of pitch space so the site could be brought back in the future for use if required.
No 1 Youth 11v11
Plymouth Argaum 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -1 0 0 -1 -2
1x youth 11v11 and 1x mini 5v5 not drawn
These pitches were not marked at the time the data was signed off for the project but have since been re-marked on the site
No 2
1x Youth 11v11 and 1x Mini 5v5
Plymouth College
(Delganey Field)
0 0 0 0 0 0 -1 -2 0 0 0 -3
1x adult and 2x youth 11v11 not marked
The pitches are available for community use around the school's requirements. For example, 2 cricket clubs use them in the Summer. The pitches were not marked at the time the PPS data was signed off by the one pitch has been reintroduced as it is used by the PAFC as a facility for U18 training.
No 3
1x Adult and 2x Youth 11v11
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Site Name in 2018 audit
2018 Audit Change from 2014 audit
Nature of Change
Amalgamated Comments from the Devon FA, Sport England
and Plymouth City Council
Lo
ss o
f p
layin
g
pit
ch
sp
ace?
Additional pitches possible from previous
configuration?
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
# Pitch Type
Plessey (Roborough
CC) 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0
1 1x additional adult pitch marked
Pitch added between the 2014 and 2018 audits
No - -
Plymouth Cricket Club
0 0 1
0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1x additional youth 9v9 marked
The pitch has been added as there is a new club using site but without a secured community use agreement.
No -
-
Plympton Community
Sports Centre 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 -1 0 0 -1 -2
1x youth 9v9 and 1x mini 5v5 no longer marked
Change in site due to construction of new AGP
Yes - -
Plymstock School Sports
Centre 1 0 1 2 0 4 1 -1 0 0 0 0
1x youth 11v11 re-marked as adult 11v11
Change in configuration but no net loss of pitches
No - -
Pomphlett Primary School 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0 0 -1 0 -1
Site no longer available for use. Was used by Plymouth Stock United Youth and Hooe Rovers. 1x mini 7v7 no longer marked
The pitch is no longer marked but this is no net loss of playing pitch space.
No 1 Mini 7v7
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Site Name in 2018 audit
2018 Audit Change from 2014 audit
Nature of Change
Amalgamated Comments from the Devon FA, Sport England
and Plymouth City Council
Lo
ss o
f p
layin
g
pit
ch
sp
ace?
Additional pitches possible from previous
configuration?
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
# Pitch Type
Prince Rock Playing Fields
0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0
1 -1 0 0 1x mini 7v7 re-marked as a youth 9v9
Site is to be lost and replaced at Staddiscombe playing Fields
Yes - -
Riverside Primary School
0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 -1 0 0 -1 1x Youth 9v9 not
marked
Private finance initiative (PFI) school owned so they are unable to allow community use of the pitches. The additional pitch could be re-marked out but neither could now be used by the community
No 1 Youth 9v9
St. Budeaux Foundation
Junior School 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1
0 1
1x additional mini 7v7 marked
Net gain of one pitch across the two studies
No - -
Staddiscombe Playing Fields
10 0 0
0 0 10 1 0 0 -4 0 -3 4x mini 7v7 re-marked as 1x adult pitch
Not actually a loss of pitch space, just 4x mini pitches used for 1x adult pitch
No - -
Stoke Damerel Community
College 0 0 1 1 0 2
-1 -1 1 1 0 0
1x adult and 1x youth 11v11 pitches re-marked as youth 9v9 and mini 7v7
No net loss of the pitch space or change in the overall number of pitches on site
No - -
Tor Bridge Sports Centre
0 0 2 0 0
2 0 -1 1 -1 -1 -2 1x youth 11v11 re-marked as youth 9v9. Mini 7v7 and mini 5v5
No net loss of the pitch space so further pitches could be brought back if required
No - -
Tothill (Enclosure) 0 0 0 0 0 0 -1 0 -1 0 0 -2
No longer available. Mount Gould FC used to use the site. 1x adult and 1x youth 9v9
These pitches now picked up in Tothill pitches. This means there is a net loss of 2 pitches on the Tothill Park site (1x adult 11v11 pitch and 1x Mini 7v7), however, there has been no reduction in playing pitch space on the site
No 2
1x Adult 11v11 and 1x Mini 7v7
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Site Name in 2018 audit
2018 Audit Change from 2014 audit
Nature of Change
Amalgamated Comments from the Devon FA, Sport England
and Plymouth City Council
Lo
ss o
f p
layin
g
pit
ch
sp
ace?
Additional pitches possible from previous
configuration?
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
Ad
ult
11v11
Yo
uth
11v11
Yo
uth
9v9
Min
i 7v7
Min
i 5v5
To
tal
# Pitch Type
Weston Mill Community
Primary School 0 0 0 1 0
1 0 0 0 1 0 1
1x additional mini 7v7 marked
One pitch included in the 2018 audit but not in the 2014 audit. Pitch is understood to be unavailable to the community and is for school use only
No - -
Weston Mill Oak Villa
1 1 1 0 0 3 -1 1 -1 0 0
-1
1x adult pitch re-marked as a youth 11v11. 1x youth 9v9 no longer marked
Agree with pitches on site, previous 9v9 thought to be due to overmarking issue as no loss of green space
No - -
Widewell Primary
Academy 0 1 0 1 0 2 0 0 -1 1 0 0
1x youth 11v11 pitch re-marked as mini 7v7.
No net loss of pitches on this site. Site could return to previous configuration if required
No - -
Wood View Learning
Community 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 1 -2 0 0 -1
1x youth 9v9 pitch remarked as youth 11v11. 1x youth 9v9 no longer marked
Unsure on 2014 data, potential issue with overmarking in 2014. Green space is unchanged
No - -
Wyvern Centre 0 0 0 0
0 0 -1 0 0 0 0 -1 1x adult pitch no longer marked
Access is restricted as with all MOD sites but this pitch isn't included in the current data as it it’s not marked.
No 1 Adult 11v11
Total 51 13 31 25 2 122 -8 -7 -4 -2 -4 -25
27
Adult 11v11 7
Youth 11v11 5
Youth 9v9 3
Mini 7v7 8
Mini 5v5 4
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1.7.8 Table 1.19 shows the change in pitch provision between the 2014 and 2018 audits. The table shows that
there are four instances where playing pitch space has been reduced. However, it should be noted that
this has predominantly been to allow for the development and investment of different types of sporting
and physical recreation facilities, including two AGPs. Loss of playing pitch space has taken place at the
following sites;
• Estruary Way; the pitch space has been reduced due to the playpark and MUGA that have
been installed.
• Marjon Sports Centre; Pitch space lost as it will be used for a sand-dressed AGP
• Plympton Community Sports Centre (land lost due to the construction of an AGP)
• Prince Rock Playing Fields; Pitch provision lost is to be re-provided at Staddiscombe playing
Fields
1.7.9 The table shows the disparity in the number of pitches located on sites between the 2014 and 2018
audits and suggests there is playing field space available for 27 additional pitches on the subject sites.
These are broken down by 7x Adult 11v11, 5x Youth 11v11, 3x Youth 9v9, 8x Mini 7v7, 4x Mini 5v5
pitches (obviously pitch configuration would vary the actual number of pitches potentially possible on
these sites).
1.7.10 It should be pointed out that the reason for the change in pitch numbers and types may be beyond the
control of the PCC or any football related body.
1.7.11 Further analysis of the table above shows that of the 27 potential pitches that could be reinstated across
the city, 19 are located on sites owned and managed by educational establishments:
• Beechwood Primary School - 1x youth 9v9
• Eggbuckland Community College - 4, 2x Adult 11v11 and 2x Mini 7v7
• Heles School - 1x Mini 7v7
• Leigham Primary School - 3, 1x Mini 7v7 and 2x Mini 5v5
• Lipson Community Sports & Arts Centre - 1x Mini 7v7
• Marine Academy Plymouth - 2, 1x Adult 11v11 and 1x Mini 5v5
• Mayflower Community School - 1x Adult
• Old Priory Academy - 1x Mini 7v7
• Plymouth College (Delganey Field) - 3, 1x Adult and 2x Youth 11v11
• Pomphlett Primary School - 1x Mini 7v7
• Riverside Primary School - 1x Youth 9v9
1.7.12 Further opportunities listed in the table above is at the MoD site, Wyvern Centre (an MoD controlled site)
for 1x adult 11v11 pitch 1. However, such is the nature of MoD controlled site there is limited opportunity
for the PCC to influence the reinstatement of this pitch. This brings the total number of opportunities to
reinstate pitches beyond the PCC’s influence to 7 of the 27 identified in the table above.
1.7.13 Of the remaining 7 pitches that could be reinstated according to the differences between the 2014 and
2018 audits, all the others remain on sites within the sphere of influence of PCC. However, one of these
sites, Oreston Recreation Ground, which could accommodate a further 1x Youth 11v11 pitch, was not
used due to the reported poor quality of its condition. Therefore, it is fair to estimate that some
investment would be needed to reinstate this pitch. This could mean that developing pitches at other
sites maybe a financially more viable option than reinstating this pitch.
1.7.14 The above commentary means that of the 27 pitches that could be reinstated from the 2014 audit, 6
remain as viable options. These are as follows;
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• Aylesbury Crescent - 1x Youth 9v9;
• Northdown Playing Field - 1x Youth 11v11;
• Plymouth Arguam - 2, 1x Youth 11v11 and 1x Mini 5v5; and,
• Tothill Park - 2, 1x Adult 11v11 and 1x Mini 7v7
1.7.15 Since the data for the project was signed off, the PCC has confirmed that it has reinstated the pitches at
Plymouth Argaum. These pitches were not marked at the time the data was signed off for the project but
have since been re-marked on the site.
1.7.16 It should be noted that the above commentary does not take into consideration where the PCC has
increased the number of pitches between the 2014-2018 audits. The sites under PCC control that are
recorded as increasing the number of pitches are as follows;
• Astors - 1x youth 11v11;
• Ernesettle Green - 1x adult 11v11;
• Estuary Way – 1x youth 9v9;
• Higher Efford East - 2x mini 5v5; and,
• Manadon Football Development Centre- 1 x adult re-marked as a youth 9v9, 1x additional
mini 7v7.
1.7.17 This raises the question of what the net increase or decrease of pitch numbers has been on PCC
controlled sites between 2014 and 2018 has been. This is shown below in figure 1.20 combined, the net
increase / decrease to the number of pitches present in Plymouth on PCC controlled sites (excluding
those sites detailed above where there has been a net loss of playing field space and excluding
Plymouth Argaum where the pitches have been reinstated).
Figure 1.20 – Net change in pitch supply between 2014 and 2018 on PCC controlled sites*
Pitch Type Reduced Pitches Additional Pitches Net
Change
Adult 11v11 2 – Tothill Park / Manadon Football Development Centre 1 – Ernsettle Green -1
Youth 11v11 1 – Northdown Playing Field 1 – Astors 0
Youth 9v9 1 – Aylesbury Crescent 2 – Estuary Way / Manadon Football Development Centre +1
Mini 7v7 1 – Tothill Park 1 – Manadon Football Development Centre 0
Mini 5v5 - 2 – Higher Efford East +2
Total 5 7 +2
* The table only includes sites where there has been a net change in the number of pitches offered at the site
1.7.18 Figure 1.20 shows that on PCC controlled sites where there has been a net change to the number of
pitches on offer at the site, the PCC provides 2 more pitches than it previously did in 2014. It should also
be noted that there is a net reduction of one adult 11v11 pitch and an increase of one youth 9v9 pitches
and a further two mini 5v5 pitches.
1.7.19 It is recommended that, when the PCC and football delivery partners discuss opportunities for adding
new provision in Plymouth, the sites that have had a reduction in the number of pitches on the site
without the loss of playing field land should be considered as potentially cost effective options and should
be explored as to the feasibility, viability and suitability of addressing the playing pitch challenges the
partners are attempting to resolve.
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1.8 Football: Key Findings and Issues for the Plan to address
1.8.1 The key issues identified during the above needs assessment are as follows:
• There is a significant lack of youth 11v11 capacity and the evidence suggests that many
youth 11v11 matches take place on adult sized pitches. This is an issue not because of the
dimensions of the pitch and also the size of goals utilised being for these matches is deemed
inappropriate for the age groups of the teams using them. This is expected to have a
subsequent impact on the players enjoyment of the game as well as a their technical
development.
• The level of maintenance across pitches requires improvement. Such improvement will
increase capacity, reduce overplay, reduce match cancellations and increase the players
experience of the facilities they use.
• The 2014 club consultation data found that, in addition to problems relating to the above, the
grass football facilities:
• Cost of hire is much too high
• There is a lack of available training facilities (and their cost is too high)
• Inappropriate, poor quality or a complete lack of changing facilities.
• The issues stated above are exacerbated at times of inclement weather and high rainfall,
which Plymouth is known to suffer from more than most cities in England.
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2 Artificial Grass Pitches (AGP’s)
2.1 Utilising 3G AGP provision for training and matchplay
3G AGP USAGE FOR FOOTBALL
2.1.1 The FA and Football Foundation considers high quality 3G pitches as essential in promoting coach and
player development across all age groups. These pitches can support intensive use and as such are
valuable assets for both playing and training. Primarily, such facilities have been installed for community
use and training however they are increasingly used for competition, which the FA wholly supports
providing the pitch has been appropriately tested and is on the FA 3G pitch register. The FA’s long-term
ambition is to provide every affiliated team in England with the opportunity to train once a week on a
floodlit 3G surface together with priority access for Charter Standard Community Clubs through a
partnership agreement.
2.2 Introduction
2.2.1 This section assesses the adequacy of artificial grass pitches (AGPs) in Plymouth (including the
administrative fringe) by presenting the following:
• An overview of pitch supply
• An overview of demand for these facilities
• The pattern of use
• A review of the capacity and adequacy of current provision across Plymouth, including an
understanding of activity at individual sites.
• The future picture of provision for selected sports across the City including football, rugby
union and hockey.
• A summary of findings and the key issues for the Plan to address.
2.2.2 It should be noted that this document represents a ‘marked-up’ version of the 2014 PPP Needs
Assessment. This means that where new data is available or the situation is known to have changed the
figures and commentary relating to this has been changed also. Where the information is thought to have
remained consistent with the 2014 study, or no new information is available, this has been carried
forward into this study.
2.2.3 As has been emphasized in this report AGPs are used by different pitch sports for both training and
match play. It is therefore important to consider their function and provision ‘in the round’, as they are
valuable media for playing sport, and there is clearly intense local competition to play on the AGPs that
do exist in and around the City.
2.2.4 The data and assessments in this Section are taken from a variety of sources including, Sport England’s
planning tools (including Active Places, Facilities Planning Model, and Sports Facilities Calculator), and
local authority records as well as from site visits and meetings with facility managers. The data has been
analysed separately, partly because the criteria for each tool differs slightly, but are brought together in
the final assessment. The assessment deals with the following topics – supply/quantity, demand,
accessibility and quality.
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AGPS IN PLYMOUTH
2.2.5 The table below lists details the AGP facilities in the City. The full-sized facilities (those capable of
hosting a full-sized rugby, football or hockey pitches) are highlighted in bold.
Figure 2.1 - AGPs in Plymouth
Site Name Facility Sub
Type Size (m)
Floodlit?
Access Type
Ownership Type/
Management type
Year Built/ Refurb (R)
All Saints Academy
Sand Dressed Half 45m x
35m Yes
Sports Club / Community Association
Education (academy)/
YMCA 2013
Rubber Crumb (3G)
Half sized 40m x 30m
Yes Sports Club / Community Association
Education (academy)/
YMCA 2013
Brickfields Sports Centre and Recreation Ground
Sand Filled 100 x 63 Yes Pay and Play
Local Authority/ Everyone
Active
1970/ 2011 R
Rubber Crumb (3G) –
FORMERLY World Rugby 22
Certified
Half 60 x 40 Yes Pay and Play PCC (leased) 2005
Bull Point Sand Dressed 96 x 58 Yes Private Use MoD 2014 R
Coombe Dean Sports Centre
Sand Half 60 x 40 Yes Pay and Play Education (academy)
2005
Devonport High School for Boys
Rubber Crumb (3G) – FA register
Full 98 x 62 Yes Sports Club / Community Association
Education (academy)
2013
Sand Dressed 55x58 Yes Sports Club / Community Association
Education (academy)
2018
Eggbuckland Community College
Rubber Crumb (3G) – FA register
Half 60 x 40 Yes Pay and Play PCC Education 2005/ 2013R
Goals Soccer Centre
Rubber Crumb (3G)
10 x 5v5 pitches
Yes Pay and Play PCC (leased to
commercial management)
2006
HMS Drake Rubber Crumb
3G Full 104 x
65 Yes Private Use MoD n/a
HMS Devonport - Keyham
World Rugby 22 3G
Full Yes Sports Club / Community Association
MoD 2012?
Lipson Sports Centre
Sand Dressed 100 x 60 Yes Pay and Play Education (academy)
2004/2015 R
Manadon Football Development Centre
Rubber Crumb – 3G – FA register
110 x 70 Yes Sports Club / Community Association
Local Authority (leased to
YMCA)
Resurfaced in 2016
Plymouth College Sand Dressed Half 40m x
45m Yes
Sports Club / Community Association
Education (private)
n/a 2013R
Plympton Community Sports Centre
Rubber Crumb 3G – FA register
80x50 Yes Sports Club / Community Association
Education 2018
Plymstock School Sports Centre
Rubber Crumb (3G) – FA register
100 x 60 Yes Sports Club / Community Association
Education (academy)
2008
Sand Based 57x41 Yes Sports Club / Community Association
Education (academy)
2017
Stoke Damerel Community College
Sand Filled 60 x 40 Yes Sports Club / Community Association
Education (academy)
2003
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Site Name Facility Sub
Type Size (m)
Floodlit?
Access Type
Ownership Type/
Management type
Year Built/ Refurb (R)
Stonehouse Barracks
Sand Filled 100 x 62 Yes Disused MoD 2000
Tor Bridge Sports Centre
Rubber Crumb (3G) – FA register
100 x 60 Yes Pay and Play Education (academy)
2011
UCP Marjon Sport
Sand Dressed 100 X 60 Yes Pay and Play Education (private)
2013
Sand Dressed 100 X 60 Yes Pay and Play Education (private)
2013
Rubber Crumb (3G) – World
Rugby 22 – FA register
Full Yes Pay and Play Education (private)
2017
2.2.6 In addition to the above facilities, it should be noted that:
• A bid for funding for a full size floodlit 3G at Marine Academy (education) had previously been
submitted. However, permission for a full sized pitch was refused planning permission after
appeal. The academy is considering a 9v9 3G in the location of their old and now demolished
school building.
• Until earlier in 2014 the full-size floodlit sand AGP at Stonehouse Barracks (MoD) was
available for some community use, however this is no longer the case and the facility is now
used as a car park by the MoD. This facility is protected as part of the local plan and requires
reinstatement (which would require remedial works to make it suitable for use again) or
mitigation.
• Saltram – 9v9 non-floodlit 3G AGP – coming online in 2019/20.
AGPS OUTSIDE PLYMOUTH CITY BOUNDARIES
2.2.7 In addition to provision within Plymouth, there are a further 11 full size floodlit AGPs in adjoining local
authorities, within an approx. 30 minute drive from the centre of Plymouth. AGP provision in the
neighbouring local authorities of South Hams, West Devon and Cornwall is set out below, along with the
estimated drive times from Plymouth city centre. It should be noted that 20 minutes’ drive-time is the
industry standard for maximum drive-time. However, some of the facilities are commutable from parts of
Plymouth in less than 20 minutes and have therefore been included.
Figure 2.2 - Full size floodlit AGPs within 30-minute drive time of Plymouth
Site Access Ownership/
management
Travel time from
Plymouth city centre
Type of AGP
Size (m)
Saltash Community School,
Sports Club / Community Association
Education/in house
12 mins Sand filled
101 x 63
Saltmill Park, Saltash
Pay and Play – FA Register
Local Authority/ other
12 mins 3G 91 x 55 (slightly under full
size)
HMS Raleigh (MOD), Torpoint
Sports Club / Community Association
MOD 15 mins Sand filled
160 x 100
RN Bickleigh Barracks (MOD)
Sports Club / Community Association
MOD 16 mins Sand filled
100 x 60
Ivybridge Community College
Community school – FA Register
Education/in house
17 mins 3G 91 x 60 (floodlit) - also has a MUGA-size 3G which is not on the FA
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register
Ivybridge Rugby Club
Pay and Play – FA Register
NGB / Club 17 mins WR22
3G 110 x 70
Callington Sport & Leisure
Pay and Play
Education/in house
26 mins 3G 100 x 70
Ashmoor Recreation Centre, Ashburton
Pay and Play – FA Register
Education/in house
29 mins 3G 100 x 60
Mount Kelly, Tavistock
Sports Club / Community Association
Independent School/in house
30 mins Sand
Dressed 100 x 60
Tavistock College Pay and Play – FA Register
Education/in house
30 mins 3G 100 x 60
KEVICS, Totnes Sports Club / Community Association
Education/in house
30 mins Sand
Dressed 100 x 60
Lux Park, Liskeard Pay and Play Local Authority/ Trust
30 mins Sand
dressed 102 x 64
Sherford - proposed TBC TBC 10 mins Full-size
sand AGP
TBC
QUALITY (2014 DATA)
2.2.8 Site audits have been undertaken at the sites with community use. MoD sites which are available for the
MoD/Service teams only were not assessed (Bull Point (sand); HMS Drake, Devonport (3G). The
commercial Goals Centre was not assessed. The Marjon 3G has only recently opened and was not
therefore audited for quality.
2.2.9 The scores given for AGPs are based upon Sport England’s new playing pitch strategy guidance –
(found in Appendix 6d. http://www.sportengland.org/facilities-planning/planning-for-sport/planning-tools-
and-guidance/playing-pitch-strategy-guidance/). The overall pitch quality score (2nd column from right)
gives the total of all the characteristics scored.
Figure 2.3 - Quality Ratings for AGPs Rating of selected characteristics, according to Sport England Visual Quality Assessment (excluding AGPs considered under Hockey – Lipson, Brickfields, Manadon and Plymouth Marjon) (2014 data) -Based on NGB consultation Overall Scoring: Poor <=50 Standard51-79 Good 80+ * Not all pitch characteristics scores are listed so overall quality score does not equal the sum of those listed. The scores are predetermined according to the Sport England template. Age of surface is also taken into account. **Pitches not assessed but given a ‘Good’ score as they are new facilities.
Pitch Pitch score*/Site audit comments
All Saints Academy (3G) Good
All Saints Academy (sand) Good
Brickfields (sand) Poor
Coombe Dean (sand) Good (resurfaced in 2018)
Devonport High School for Boys (Sand) Good**
Devonport HSB (3G) Good
Eggbuckland Community College (3G) Good
Goals Centre Good: commercial facility
HMS Devonport - Keyham (WR22) Good: marked for rugby
Lipson Sp. Centre (sand) Good: pitch has been resurfaced
Plymouth Albion, Brickfields (3G) Poor
Plymouth College (sand) Good
Plympton Community Sports Centre (3G) Good**
Plymstock School Sports Centre (3G) Standard
Plymstock School Sports Centre (Sand) Good **
Stoke Damerel Community College (sand) Standard
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Pitch Pitch score*/Site audit comments
Tor Bridge Sports Centre (3G) Standard
UCP Marjon (3G) Good**
UCP Marjon (sand) Good
UCP Marjon (sand) Good
2.2.10 Table 2.3 shows that the majority of full sized pitches in the City are considered to be of good quality. It
should be noted that there is also a full-sized AGP facility at Stone House Barracks which is currently
disused due to it being utilised by the MoD as a carpark.
2.2.11 With regard to the half size AGPs. The majority are good, but the surfaces at Stoke Damerel Community
College and Plymouth Albion are rated as satisfactory only.
2.2.12 Further comments re: quality for individual sports are made in the separate sports sections (football and
hockey).
CAPACITY
Issues identified in the 2014 PPP
2.2.13 It is clear from analysis presented in the 2014 report that the use of AGPs (both full and half-size) where
they are available for community use, was found to be at or near peak-time capacity. Moreover, 3G
pitches outside the city which are catering for Plymouth demand (in Saltash, Tavistock and Ivybridge) are
also virtually full, certainly at peak times. In addition, the wider consultation exercise conducted for this
study tends to highlight the following general points of view:
• Cost of hiring – the less expensive AGPs are more sought after. 6v6 leagues football leagues
pay well and can afford higher prices – and can sometimes ‘take over’ from local community
teams. (Although this is unlikely to be the case where facilities have been funded by the
Football Foundation).
• AGP surfaces and provision in Plymouth are constantly changing and this inevitably leads to
a redistribution of demand pressure.
• The University of Plymouth is desperate for access to a 3G. Such provision was to take place
at the Marine Academy, but the planning application for a full-size 3G AGP has been rejected
on appeal. The University has to use a variety of surfaces throughout the city to
accommodate its BUCS needs and intramural fixtures.
• Lacrosse is a growing sport within the University and needs provision – currently played
mostly on natural grass but would benefit from suitable 3G surface. A revised proposal for a
half-size AGP might be progressed at the Marine Academy at some point.
2.2.14 The adequacy of AGPs to accommodate demand for football, taking into account both training and
competitive fixtures is discussed in the section that follows. Demand for hockey is also considered (and
will be discussed with specific reference to hockey in Section 7) as there can often be competing
demands from these two sports as both are reliant upon AGPs.
2.3 AGPs for football
PITCH SUPPLY
2.3.1 Whilst competitive football is still primarily played on grass pitches, artificial pitches are frequently used
for football training and are becoming more commonplace for competitive play provided surfaces meet
the specifications required of them for the level of play (as stipulated by the FA and FIFA). A register of
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pitches meeting these specifications is hosted on the FA’s website and is available at
http://3g.thefa.me.uk/?countyfa=Devon.
2.3.2 There are a variety of different surfaces of AGPs and their suitability for football is as follows;
• Long pile 3G with shock pad – suitable for football and rugby training & matches (World
Rugby 22) (pile should be 50mm or 60mm)
• Long pile 3G – preferred surface for football (pile should be 50mm or 60mm) provided it
meets the
• Sand filled – acceptable surface for football training
• Sand dressed – acceptable surface for football training
2.3.3 The FA has recently changed the standard code of rules regarding the use of 3G football turf pitches, to
become effective from 2014/15 season, Provided a football turf pitch has been tested and appears on the
FA Register it will be allowed to be used for match play in all competitions outside the National League
System (NLS) i.e. Step 7 and below (including women’s and youth football). The test is based on the
British Standard for synthetic turf sports surfaces – BS EN 15330-1 and must be carried out by a
recognized test house accredited by FIFA and/or having ISO 17025 accreditation by UKAS. The facility
operator should commission and pay for the cost of this. It should be noted that a number of 3Gs
throughout the country have not passed this test and are therefore not compliant for matchplay; it cannot
be assumed that existing 3Gs will necessarily comply with this requirement. For clubs playing at Step 6
and above there is a different testing process, but they can still be used for competitive matches if they
comply.
PITCH QUALITY
2.3.4 Football clubs and teams in Plymouth still very largely play on grass pitches. However, many teams train,
and some even play their matches on AGPs. It was reported in the football need assessment chapter
that amongst football clubs responding to the 2014 club questionnaire survey, the overwhelming
response when asked the question, was that most clubs would be prepared to both train and play their
matches on appropriate AGPs (subject to cost), especially if it meant better playing surfaces, and fewer
cancelled matches.
2.3.5 However, the perceived cost of using an AGP is seen as a major issue by many clubs. Education is
required into what it costs to install and operate 3Gs – and users need to understand the costs and risks
involved to the provider.
PARKLIFE STANDARD DEMAND MODEL FOR 3G AGPS
2.3.6 To determine the number of additional 3G AGP pitches required in the City to meet current and future
demand, the steering group for the Playing Pitch Plan project has agreed to use the Football
Foundation’s Park Life Standard Demand Model.
2.3.7 The FA has developed a supply and demand model that utilises and builds upon the Sport England PPS
methodology. The model is used to inform how an AGP ‘hub’ based approach could be implemented
across a local authority landscape to help reduce the impact of local authority subsidy pressures on
football.
2.3.8 The Parklife demand model calculates the supply requirements for both AGPs and good quality grass
pitches based upon the demand from current local authority pitch hirers. The model allows for flexibility at
a local level to amend the scope to include a percentage of demand from current users of other site
providers (e.g. club leased sites etc.). This can help address local supply issues and can highlight the
potential revenue savings and capital requirements associated with delivery at the local level.
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2.3.9 For more information on the Parklife Programme and the methodology for calculating the AGP
requirements of a given area, please see the Parklife Football Hubs National Programme Prospectus.1
2.3.10 The results of the Parklife demand model when run against current demand are provided below in figure
2.4 below.
Figure 2.4 – Parklife Model Results based on current demand (2018)
2.3.11 The results of the model show that there is a requirement for two 3G pitches in the City of Plymouth.
2.3.12 It should also be noted that the Football Foundation believes that there is the greatest potential to
accommodate 5v5 demand on 3G AGP with some 7v7 demand also moving to 3G AGP.
2.3.13 The figure below shows the Parklife model re-run against projected future demand. This model runs off-of
a 5year projected demand (2024).
Figure 2.5 - Parklife Model Results based on projected demand in 5 years time (2023)
2.3.14 When the model is run against the projected demand for football in 5years time, it shows that, according
to this modelling, there is a need for a total of four 3G pitches (2024) when measured against current
supply.
2.3.15 It should be noted that the projected demand underpinning figure 2.5 is based on projected future
demand. This figure would require re-testing against figures closer to this timeframe.
2.3.16 In reference to potential locations for these new facilities (in addition to the existing facilities), the steering
group has identified the following potential options;
1 Available at: https://www.sportengland.org/media/12134/parklife-football-hub-prospectus-july-2017.pdf
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• Manadon park - There are some parking or planning issues identified as part of this work) –
this project could potentially be delivered alongside Plymouth Argyle, however, this would be
subject to further discussion and negotiation.
• Marjons – The University are understood to be interested in developing another facility.
Further discussion and negotiation with the University would be required before this site could
be progressed as an option for an additional 3G.
• Marine Academy – The academy has previously been considered for a 3G provision
previously. Use of this site for such a facility would be subject to negotiating community use
agreements with the Academy. The Football Foundation report that a 9v9 pitch has also been
discussed as a potential option for this site.
• Brickfields – There is a possibility that new provision could fit into the master-planning of this
site. This would be subject to discussions with the Council regarding the future use of the site.
• University of Plymouth – The University are understood to be keen to add to their AGP
stock and could be considered a strong candidate as a site for a new pitch.
2.3.17 It has also been reported that Plymouth Albion Football Club (a professional football club) have a will to
provide a dedicated training venue with 3G for their training and academy. Whilst the level of community
use for the project is unknown, this would free up space at Plymstock (and Ivybridge) AGPs from existing
PAFC academy use.
2.4 AGPS for Hockey
2.4.1 Unlike football and rugby, hockey is played exclusively on AGP surfaces. As a result, the key issues
regarding the supply and demand of hockey facilities are principally covered in the hockey needs
assessment chapter. However, this chapter does not consider the impact of other sports demand
(especially football) on sand dressed / based AGPs. This impact will be modelled below.
2.4.2 Figure 2.1 above identifies 5 hockey appropriate AGPs in the city (sand dressed / based, full-sized
AGPs). There is also a disused, hockey-appropriate AGP located at Stone House Barracks. This is
disused as it is currently being used as a car park. This facility has been re-introduced to the pitch supply
or its loss mitigated by a replacement facility as part of the local plan. The hockey needs assessment
chapter identifies spare capacity on hockey appropriate AGPs when available supply is measured
against reported demand from hockey clubs and their associated activities (28.5 hours). However,
consultation with England Hockey officers and clubs shows that there is limited opportunity for clubs to
increase the number of hours they use these facilities as peak-time capacity is utilised for other activities,
principally football, during the mid-week period.
2.4.3 This is significant as it not only limits the formal training clubs can offer members, but also limits the non-
traditional offer (such as Walking Hockey or Back to Hockey) which are considered key areas of growth
for the sport.
MID-WEEK HOCKEY DEMAND
2.4.4 Figure 6.8, in the hockey needs assessment chapter identifies a minimum of 35.5 peak-time midweek
hours of demand from hockey clubs on hockey appropriate AGPs.
2.4.5 Consultations with hockey clubs and England Hockey has consistently cited a lack of mid-week peak-
time availability of pitches due to significant use for small-sided football and training.
2.4.6 The consultations report that when training demand for football (that cannot be met by 3G AGPs) is
applied to the sand dressed / based AGPs in the city, along with hockey training demand, then there is
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not enough supply to meet all of the available peak-time capacity of these facilities. This finding, coupled
with the understanding that there is further use of these facilities for commercial, informal or unaffiliated
demand, supports the consultation finding that there is limited spare capacity in the city for hockey clubs
to develop and grow.
2.4.7 In theory, the conclusion from the analysis above is that there is not necessarily a requirement for more
hockey pitches in Plymouth as, provided sufficient provision can be made for football, the football
demand currently occupying peak-time capacity on hockey AGPs can be redistributed to other facilities
thereby freeing-up peak-time hours for further hockey use. This in turn, should theoretically allow
Plymouth’s hockey clubs to continue to develop and thrive. However, there is concern that despite
increased capacity on 3G AGP, not all football demand currently taking place on sand AGP will be
removed. To this end, ensuring the re-instatement or replacement of Stonehouse Barracks is considered
key.
MITIGATING THE LOSS OF MOD OWNED/MANAGED SITES
2.4.8 There are two pitches owned and operated by the MoD in Plymouth; Stone House Barracks and Bull
Point Barracks.
2.4.9 The pitch located at Stonehouse Barracks was formerly used by local clubs but on an unsecured basis
but this was promptly stopped by the MoD and used for parking of military vehicles. The current policy of
the Plymouth City Council is to ensure this pitch is reinstated (in a usable condition) or its loss must be
mitigated by providing another hockey appropriate AGP elsewhere in the city. This position has been
supported by the steering group for the PPP as it is felt that the loss of this pitch represents and
unacceptable net loss of facilities and limits the ability of hockey clubs in the area to grow and increase
their activity inline with England Hockey’s aspirations.
2.4.10 The other MoD owned pitch is Bull Point Barracks. This site is also insecurely available to the community
and access could be withdrawn at any time, as it was with Stonehouse. The loss of this site would result
in a reduction to the capacity of sand AGPs to meet hockey demand (by 4hours mid-week, 4.5hours on
Saturdays and 3 hours on Sundays). Similar to Stonehouse Barracks, should Bull Point become
unavailable to the community to use the Local Plan should make provision to ensure it is replaced with a
similar facility as a high priority.
FUTURE POSITION
2.4.11 The needs assessment chapter for hockey identifies an ambition to increase demand for hockey by
100% over the next 10 years. Should these occur, there will be a need to add a further 4 hockey
appropriate AGPs within the city. However, this figure may need to be re-assessed in a future study
depending on the situation with Stonehouse Barracks and Bull Point Barracks.
2.4.12 A further consideration for the future of hockey in Plymouth is the construction of a new pitch as part of
the Sherford housing development. This development Ivybridge Hockey Club are expected to take up
residence at the Sherford pitch in the near future, therefore reducing the use of Marjons (McCormick
pitch).
HOCKEY SUMMARY
2.4.13 The section above, read in context with the football assessment, indicates that Hockey’s growth in
Plymouth is being limited by a lack of adequate supply at peak-times due to significant use at peak-times,
primarily for football. There is, therefore, a need for football demand to be encouraged to use any newly
established 3G AGP.
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2.4.14 When looking at hockey facilities alone, there is a clear need for Stonehouse Barracks either to be re-
introduced to the supply (and made fit for community use) or for a replacement facility to be provided to
mitigate its loss to the community. The same policy of protection should be put in place for the pitch at
Bull Point Barracks.
2.4.15 Demand on Marjons McCormick is expected to reduce when Ivybridge HC moves to a new pitch being
built as part of the Sherford development.
2.4.16 Regarding the future, if demand is to double by 2028, as England Hockey is aspiring toward, then a
further 4 pitches will be required (not including Stonehouse Creek), to meet demand.
AGPS for Rugby
2.4.17 AGPs are becoming recognized surfaces for both match play and training for rugby. They need to be
World Rugby22 compliant which requires the installation of a shock pad which has additional
specifications to one that would be installed on a dedicated football facility. WR22 compliant facilities can
be used by football as well and having a WR22 compliant shock-pad does not disqualify the facility from
being included on the FA pitch register (meaning they can be used for competitive football matches as
well as rugby matches). The dimensions of a ‘rugby’ 3G pitch tend to be slightly bigger than a dedicated
football AGP; however, the RFU are flexible on the pitch size. However, they can accommodate both
sports for match play and training and can also meet demand for training from American football.
PITCH SUPPLY
2.4.18 There are two WR22 compliant 3G AGPs in Plymouth:
• HMS Devonport - Keyham in the rugby needs assessment chapter – an MoD site – ‘outside
the wire’ which hosts rugby training for University of Plymouth RUFC, Devonport Services
RFC and MoD matches/training); this is only marked for rugby.
• UCP Marjon Sports (only University use of this facility has been captured in the rugby needs
assessment chapters).
2.4.19 In addition to the dedicated WR22 compliant pitches in the Borough, 2 other 3G AGPs (which are not
WR22 compliant) are used regularly by clubs for training.
• Devonport High School for Boys (used by Devonport High School Old Boys RFC)
• Brickfields small sided 3G (used by Plymouth Albion RFC and University of Plymouth RFC.
The 3G is constructed to WR22 standards, yet has not received World Rugby certification for
use).
AGP PITCH DEMAND / NEED
2.4.20 Figures 4.11, 4.12 and 4.13 of the rugby needs assessment chapter of this report detail the capacity
(supply and demand) balances for rugby facilities in the city. This figures show:
• Across all sites in Plymouth used for community rugby demand, only 3 are considered to be
operating with any spare capacity (Brickfields, Marsh Mills/St Boniface’s, Weston Mill Oak
Villa)
• There is a significant lack of midweek training supply in the city (when measured only against
demand from community rugby clubs) The two WR22 facilities in the city, HMS Devonport –
Keyham and Marjons do not take a significant amount of training demand from community
clubs but are considered to have no spare capacity as consultations reported that the facility
was only available for hire for 2 hours per during the week.
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• There is some exported demand to the WR22 compliant pitch at Ivybridge (located in South
Hams). This is a new facility and so there is limited information on the emerging pattern of use
amongst Plymouth based clubs, but it is known that Plymouth Albion Ladies and Plympton
Victoria have begun to make use of the facility for mid-week training demand.
2.4.21 The above summary of rugby pitch capacity in Plymouth shows that there is a significant deficit in training
capacity across most of the sites in the city. Furthermore, the only sites that are operating with spare
capacity on their training provision are sites/clubs that have access to AGP provision.
2.4.22 Should it prove impossible for the recommended actions regarding mid-week rugby training provision to
be implemented (see action plan), then it is considered important that a WR22 3G AGP be considered as
an option for helping to meet this demand.
2.5 Chapter Summary
2.5.1 Figure 2.6 below provides a summary of needs assessment above
Figure 2.6: Summary of Assessment of AGP findings
Sport Assessment of Need
Football 2 further full-sized 3G AGPs are required to meet modelled demand in the City.
Hockey Due to the current ‘loss’ of the Stonehouse hockey pitch the City is estimated to be running at a deficit of 1 full-sized, floodlit hockey pitch. Should Bull Point also become unavailable for community use, then this deficit will increase to 2 pitches.
Rugby Union There is a clear deficit of mid-week training supply for clubs in the city. Recommendations, identified from the Rugby needs assessment chapter, have been made in the strategy and action plan to address this. However, if not a sufficient number of these actions are achievable then a WR22 3G AGP should be considered as an alternative means of addressing this need.
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3 Cricket analysis
3.1 Introduction
3.1.1 This section assesses the adequacy of pitches for cricket in Plymouth (administrative area) by presenting
the following:
• An overview of pitch supply
• An overview of demand for cricket
• The pattern of play of cricket
• A review of the capacity and adequacy of current provision across Plymouth, including an
understanding of activity at individual sites
• The future picture of provision for cricket across the city
• A summary of findings and key issues for the Plan to address - separate document.
3.1.2 It should be noted that this document represents a ‘marked-up’ version of the 2014 PPP Needs
Assessment. This means that where new data is available, or the situation is known to have changed the
figures and commentary relating to this has been changed also. Where the information is thought to have
remained consistent with the 2014 study, or no new information is available, this has been carried
forward into this study.
3.2 Overview of Pitch Supply
3.2.1 There are 11 sites containing facilities for cricket in Plymouth. This figure includes all known public,
private, school and other pitches whether or not they are in secured community use. It however excludes
cricket facilities that are available solely for the use of the MoD.
3.2.2 With the exception of MoD facilities, the total pitch provision across Plymouth is summarised in Figure
3.1. The 11 venues are a mixture of club, education and local authority sites.
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Figure 3.1 – Cricket pitches in Plymouth City (based on 2014 data updated with 2018 consultation)
Name Availa-ability
Ownership Grass wickets Non-turf cricket wickets (NTPs)
Cricket Pitches
Deans Cross/Foresters Field
A1 PCC (leased to Plymstock
CC) 11 1 1
Harewood House (Plympton CC)
A2 PCC (leased) 10 1 1
Mount Wise (Plymouth CC)
A2 Private (leased) 10 1 1
Devonport High School for Boys
A3 Education (academy)
1 1
Sir. John Hunt School A3 PCC Education
1
Coombe Dean School A3 Education (academy)
1
Tor Bridge High School (Miller Way)
A3 Education (academy) 10 1 1
Plymstock Community College
A3 Education (academy)
1 1
Plymouth College (Delgany Field)
a. B Education (private) 9
1
Plymouth College B Education (private) 8 1
Notre Dame RC School C PCC - Education
1
Heles School B Education (academy) 1
Sites used by Plymouth clubs outside of the city Boundaries
Gunnislake b. A
2 Club 5 1
Buckland c. A
2 Club 6 1
Lewdown d. A
1 Parish Council 7 1 1
Yealmpton e. A
1 Parish Council 6 1 1
Roborough CC f. A
1 Parish Council 6 1 1
CLUB SITES
3.2.3 There are two club-managed sites in the City – Harewood House (Plympton CC), and Mount Wise
(Plymouth CC). The former Civil Service Sports Ground also used to host cricket facilities, but this has
now been lost as a cricket venue.
EDUCATION SITES
3.2.4 Most of the cricket venues are located on education sites and are shared with other sports. The most
significant of these is at Tor Bridge High School, which has a new grass cricket table, and an artificial
wicket. This facility was recorded as being used by Plymouth CC third team and fourth team, as well as
the school in 2014 but is now not used for community cricket. The facilities at Plymouth College were
recorded as being “unlikely to be available to any significant extent for community teams” in 2014.
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However, the site is currently used by Plymouth CC’s 3rd XI as well as by Plymouth and Marjons’
university teams.
SHARED SITES
3.2.5 In reality, very few sites are solely dedicated to cricket use. The majority are shared with other sports.
Of the facilities currently available for community use, only two sites (Plymouth CC’s ground at Mount
Wise and Plympton CC’s at Harewood Park) are largely dedicated for cricket (although even here there
would appear to be come occasional winter sport use). Plymstock CC’s outfield ground at Deans Cross is
shared with football. Certain school sites have artificial school wickets. (See site review below).
CLOSED SITES
3.2.6 In recent years, the sites at Civil Service, Peverell Park and Manadon have been lost for cricket use.
However, the JLP allocates the land at Peverell Park for cricket use and work is underway to provide
improved cricket facilities at the Manadon Sports Centre. During consultation (2018) the ECB stated that
they were interested and open to holding conversations with the leaseholders at Peverell Park to
reintroduce it for cricket at this site.
SITE SUMMARY
3.2.7 The following paragraphs summarise provision at previously identified sites.
3.2.8 Mount Wise
3.2.9 This site is managed by Plymouth CC and is on a long-term lease. The cricket table can accommodate
10 wicket strips (of which two were cut at the time of the site visit in 2014). There is also an artificial
wicket. In 2014, the facility was rated as ‘good’ in overall terms. (See below). The facility is used by
Plymouth CC, which is estimated to run 4 adult male, 6 junior, and 1 adult female teams in 2018.
3.2.10 The site was subject to significant investment due to the need to add ball stop netting in 2018. This £25-
30,000 investment enabled the site to continue to be used by the club. As future phases of the site come
forward for development, it will be important to consider whether further ball stop fencing is required, and
if necessary to secure its provision through the planning process.
3.2.11 The Plymouth CC Male 3rd team makes use of the cricket facilities across multiple sites outside of the
area (See below). In addition, the club is used by The University of Plymouth Cricket teams (of which
there are two) for their BUCS fixtures, they also use sites outside the City. It is difficult to quantify the
precise regularity and frequency by the University’s use of the Mountwise site. However, matches take
place during midweek daytime sessions, and do not therefore conflict with other community league
fixtures. These mid-week matches have been factored into calculations later in this section when
calculating to overall use of the site. Also factored into calculations are more occasional ‘casual’ matches
played by a team that plays in the Plymouth and District League- ‘Everything Everywhere’.
3.2.12 Deans Cross/Foresters Field
3.2.13 This site is used by Plymstock CC, and is leased from Plymouth City Council, which manages the facility.
The cricket table can accommodate 11 strips, two of which were cut at the time of the site visit in 2014. In
2014, the facility was rated as ‘good’ in overall terms. (See below). The site is also used by several
football teams, and the outfield is shared with these sports.
3.2.14 Plymstock CC are recorded as running 5.5 adult male (plus a more occasional team), and 6 junior teams
in 2018. There are occasional matches played by two teams in the Plymouth and District League- ‘Friary’
and ‘RM Police’.
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3.2.15 The club are investigating the possibility of taking on more land and maintenance responsibilities for
more of the site as part of their lease agreement which will require further dialogue and negotiation with
Plymouth City Council.
3.2.16 The club has also expressed a desire to install a new practice facility at this site.
3.2.17 During consultation; dog fouling was reported to be a major issue on the site. Adding more bins and
signage to the site would be expected to resolve this issue.
3.2.18 Harewood House
3.2.19 The site is used by Plympton CC. The club leases the facilities from Plymouth City Council, but the club
manages the site by itself on a lease. The cricket table can accommodate 12 strips, and there is one
artificial wicket. There are 2 x net cages, the newer one has 3 bays, protected and in good order. The
older one has 2 bays, is open and in average condition and require refurbishment.
3.2.20 Plymstock CC are recorded as running 5.5 adult male (plus a more occasional team), 6 junior, and 1
adult female team in 2018. The facility was rated as ‘good’ in overall terms in 2014. (See below).
3.2.21 Tor Bridge High School
3.2.22 A cricket table and artificial wicket was provided as part of the redeveloped campus in 2012. It is
available for school use but is not used by the community. This site received investment as a means of
supporting club cricket in the area but has been found to be unsuitable for such use due to the inability of
the club to carry out the necessary maintenance on the pitch during school hours. No other club has
taken on the site at this time.
3.2.23 It is understood that the pitch has been used occasionally by a team playing in the Plymouth and District
League- ‘The Seymour Arms’.
3.2.24 Given its relatively recent installation the facility is likely to be fairly easy to return to a ‘good’ condition.
Two rugby pitches are in the outfield, on either of the natural turf wickets. The ECB invested in this facility
and see it as an important venue. However, it is unlikely this site will see significant community use due
to the issues around access remaining unresolved.
3.2.25 The NTP on site appears to be deteriorating at present that therefore requires maintenance in-order to
remain suitable for use by the Seymour Arms.
3.2.26 Coombe Deane School
3.2.27 This school has an artificial wicket available for school use. It was not possible to undertake a site
inspection in 2014.
3.2.28 Devonport High School for Boys
3.2.29 A new junior-size artificial wicket was being installed at this school in 2014, on a re-configured playing
field campus, which has also seen the development of a new full-size 3G pitch. It is presumed that the
strip will be used primarily for school activity at this stage.
3.2.30 Heles School
3.2.31 There is an artificial wicket on this site that is used largely for school activity but is also used occasionally
by Hele’s, a team who play in the Plymouth and District League.
3.2.32 Sir John Hunt School
3.2.33 There is an artificial wicket on this school site that appears to be only for school use.
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3.2.34 Plymstock Community College
3.2.35 There is an artificial wicket on this school site. Plymstock CC has been known to use the site.
3.2.36 Plymouth College (and Delganey Field)
3.2.37 Both sites are used largely by Plymouth College who have a strong reputation for school cricket. The
Delganey field site is also used by Plymouth Marjons University teams who use the site as part of BUCS
activity. The University of Plymouth teams are also known to train here. OPMs who play occasionally in
the Plymouth and District League also uses this venue. The site is used for cricket by the school on
Saturdays but could be an opportunity for further community use at other times.
3.2.38 The main College Ground is used regularly by Plymouth CC 3rd and 4th teams when available. No major
facility improvements have been identified as part of this site.
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QUALITY SCORING OF SITES
3.2.39 The score given to the overall pitch quality and shown in Figure 3.2 overleaf is based upon Sport England’s playing pitch strategy guidance – (Appendix 3d found
at (https://www.sportengland.org/media/3522/pps-guidance-october-2013-updated.pdf). These scores have been reached through consultation with the ECB as
well as reference to the 2014 PPP study. Due to the high level of Plymouth cricket demand being exported outside of the City, selected sites being used by
Plymouth based clubs have been included.
Figure 3.2 - Cricket Pitch Quality Ratings and site capacity (based on 2014 data updated with 2018 consultation)
Site Name Ownership Access Quality Pitches Capacity
Grass Artificial Total
Harewood House (Plympton CC) Club A2 Good 1 50 60 110
Mount Wise (Plymouth CC) Club A2 Good 1 50 60 110
Plymouth College Education B Good 1 40 0 40
Plymouth College (Delganey Field) Education C Good 1 45 0 45
Deans Cross/Foresters Field LA A1 Good 1 55 60 115
SUBTOTAL: All Pitches in Plymouth 5 240 180 420
Gunnislake Club A2 Standard 1 25 0 25
Buckland Club A2 Standard 1 30 0 30
Lewdown Parish Council A1 Good 1 35 60 95
Yealmpton Parish Council A1 Standard 1 30 60 90
Roborough CC Parish Council A1 Poor 1 30 60 90
SUBTOTAL: Pitches used by Plymouth teams but located outside of Plymouth 5 150 180 330
TOTAL: All Pitches used by Plymouth based teams 10 390 360 750
3.2.40 The above is a summary of a longer technical assessment carried out in 2014. It confirms the facilities to be generally of ‘good’ quality in overall terms, although
some problems are experienced. For example, all three local cricket clubs experienced cancelled/postponed matches last season, due to weather conditions. In
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addition, Plymstock CC stated back in 2014 their dissatisfaction with the quality of changing facilities dog-fouling and damaged playing surfaces at Deans Cross
(which is a public access site).
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3.3 Overview of Demand
ACTIVE LIVES DATA (SPORT ENGLAND)
3.3.1 The Sport England Active Lives Survey can be used in helping to evaluate the proportion of the adult
population that are likely to participate in cricket. More information on the Sport England Active Lives
Tool can be found here. The key messages for cricket are:
• 0.7% of adult residents in Plymouth participated in some form of cricket at least twice within
the last 28 days, representing around 1,513 people.
• Of this group :
• around 31% participated in long form (40-50 over) matches.
• around 28% participated in short form matches (such as 20:20)
• around 49% had attended a cricket net or practice session
• around 13% had participated in some other form of cricket at least twice within the last 28
days
• The Sport England Local Profile resources (available here) indicate there are currently 55.7%
of adult residents that would like to do more sport
CURRENT PARTICIPATION
3.3.2 The total number of teams being fielded by each of the existing local established clubs is as follows:
Figure 3.3 - Number of cricket teams fielded by Plymouth’s cricket clubs (based on 2014 data updated
with 2018 consultation)
Name Men’s Junior Ladies League
Plymouth CC 5 g. 6 1 The Devon Cricket League, The South Devon League, The Palladium West Devon Youth League, The Devon Women's Cricket League
Plymstock CC 5.5 h. 6 The Devon Cricket League, The South Devon League, The
Plymouth & District League, The West Devon Youth League
Plympton CC 5.5 i. 6 1 The Devon Cricket League, The South Devon League, South and West Regional Premier League, The West Devon Youth League
University of Plymouth
2
j. 1 BUCS
Marjons University 1
k. 1 BUCS
Plymouth Civil Service and Roborough CC
l. 3.5
The Devon Cricket League, The South Devon League
3.3.3 Other than the above, there are casual teams that play in the Plymouth and District League (midweek),
and these include: Friary, Lopes, RM Police, Everything Everywhere, Seymour Arms, and OPMs. (An
estimate of 6 adult male teams has been included in addition to the above count to cover this activity).
3.3.4 In addition to the above there is recorded to be a Plymouth Marjons Cricket Club. This club formed in
2012,and had formed an u11 mixed team to play in the West Devon Junior League. It is understood that
the club (part of the Plymouth Marjons University Sports Club) is no longer fielding any sides at present
other than those competing in BUCs competitions.
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3.3.5 Junior teams, in practice, can encompass variations of the match from 8v8 softball to 11v11 hardball
varieties, and it is therefore important to note that the requirement of junior teams for access to full size
pitches will generally not exist, although they will of course require some form of open space.
3.3.6 The ECB consultation shows that the All Stars cricket programme, targeted at 5-8 year olds has been
very successful in Plymouth, with 120 new players signed up during 2018 season.
SUMMARY OF CLUBS
3.3.7 Cricket in Plymouth is very club-based and the teams playing are part of well-established clubs. There
does not appear to be much casual play, although at least two of the clubs would appear to play ‘friendly’
fixtures from time-to-time.
TRENDS IN PARTICIPATION
3.3.8 The key trends since 2014 amongst the three local clubs has been an overall lack of change in the
number of teams in each age-group, albeit that the Plymouth and District League (P & D League) has
suffered - this seems to have been offset by a growth in ‘T20’ activity. The loss of the Civil Service
Sports Club teams, due to the closure and redevelopment of the ground, has also contributed to the
static nature of participation growth in cricket within Plymouth. The club has now merged with Roborough
CC, and plays outside the area, at both Roborough, and Buckfastleigh.
3.3.9 The ECB’s ‘Chance to Shine’ development programme is now operating in Devon and may in time have
some impact on the numbers of young people interested in playing the game. Chance to Shine may be
used to support the development of a new junior section in the Civil Service & Roborough Club, should
the club find a new facility within the city. Chance to Shine has already been used to support Plymouth
CC and Plympton CC for over 6 years.
3.3.10 The P & D League is still a fully functional and providing cricket for upwards of 14 teams. These teams
predominantly play on club and school pitches. They also play on pitches outside of the City boundary in
the South Hams & West Devon. Teams that enter are a mixture of club and social / nomadic
teams. There are less club teams entering due to the increased popularity of T20 competitions.
3.3.11 Amongst the well-established clubs there do not appear to be serious plans to play additional teams, with
the exception of women’s cricket, where both Plymouth and Plympton CCs have expressed a wish to
attract more lady players/teams. However, emerging evidence from similar strategies being developed in
neighbouring local authorities suggests that there are several clubs located just outside the Plymouth
conurbation whose memberships are flourishing, which suggests that some of these clubs may in part be
attracting players from Plymouth. Based on the club questionnaire survey, it would appear that the
majority of players affiliated to city-based clubs come from within Plymouth.
ORIGIN OF PLAYERS
3.3.12 The following figure is based on information provided by the club questionnaire survey.
Figure 3.4 - Where cricket players come from (2014 data)
Do the majority of your players live within the Local Authority in which
your home ground is situated?
How far do the majority of your players have to travel to play
home games?
Plymouth CC Yes 2 - 5 miles
Plympton CC Yes 2 - 5 miles
Plymstock CC Yes 2 - 5 miles
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3.3.13 The majority of club players come from within Plymouth, it would appear. This will also be the case for
the Universities’ teams as students’ accommodation will be close to the locale for play.
PATTERN OF PLAY AND CAPACITY (2014 DATA)
3.3.14 The main leagues operating in the area are:
• The Devon Cricket League (primarily Saturdays)
• The South Devon Cricket League (Sundays)
• The Devon Women’s Cricket League (Sundays)
• Ivor Dewdney’s 20-20 tournament (Midweek)
• The West Devon Junior Cricket League (Midweek)
• The Plymouth and District League (Midweek)
3.3.15 The following represents a general estimate of when teams are likely to play.
Figure 3.5 - Pattern of play of cricket teams (2014 data)
3.3.16 The mid-week fixtures are contributed to by the Universities BUCS games.
3.3.17 In practice, and presumably to avoid fixture clashes, some fixtures do not follow these overall patterns.
TRAINING NEEDS
3.3.18 The majority of clubs do train – in summer on their home ground (although not all clubs have nets). In
winter, clubs train in local school sports halls.
Figure 3.6 - Where cricket clubs train (2014 data)
Club Training on home ground Off-site training
Plymouth CC In summer Tor Bridge High
Plympton CC In summer St Cuthbert Mayne
Plymstock CC In summer Culm Valley Leisure Centre
University of St. Mark and St. John In summer Marjons
University of Plymouth In summer
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OTHER CRICKET ACTIVITY
3.3.19 As already mentioned, there appears to be little by way of casual/informal cricket match play in the City.
Other significant organized cricket activity in the City involves MoD/naval teams, taking place on MoD
facilities ‘behind the wire’ and unavailable for community use. These facilities and activity are not
therefore of relevance to this study.
3.3.20 The only other significant cricket activity in the City therefore involves the education sector. As already
mentioned, both The University of Plymouth and Marjons run their own teams (a combined total of five).
The times and venues for this play do not tend to impact on the actual availability of pitches for other
community teams at times of peak demand.
3.3.21 Plymouth College clearly have cricket as a central part of their PE curriculum, given the facilities
available at Delganey. Other state school sites have some facilities and activity, of which the most
significant and impressive is at Tor Bridge High School. As documented earlier, some other state schools
have artificial wickets which will be used for school-based activity, but which also have existing or
potential community use.
3.3.22 Demand for formal cricket pitches is much less evident from the state education sector than for football.
Whilst many primary schools play cricket and have cricket teams, this is primarily kwik cricket played
indoors or on the playground. The Chance to Shine Programme, which seeks to bring cricket back into
primary schools and to create strong links between schools and clubs has however been generally
successful in Devon and may have contributed to the small increase in junior cricket participation.
DISPLACED, UNMET AND LATENT DEMAND
3.3.23 There is little overt evidence of unmet demand within Plymouth from existing clubs. The Active People
analysis does refer to only limited latent demand. However, the loss of the Plymouth Civil Service Sports
Club, and the co-location of the Civil Service Cricket Club at Roborough Cricket Club outside the City
suggests that there is some forced migration from players living within the City to external ‘home’
venues. Both the Devon Cricket Board and the ECB are of the view that there is latent demand for
cricket within the City, but this is likely only to be released with the provision of new and improved
facilities to attract potential new players, allied to sports development campaigns, such as ‘Chance to
Shine’
CAPACITY SCORES - SITUATION AT INDIVIDUAL SITES
3.3.24 For cricket, unlike other pitch sports, the capacity of a pitch is measured on a season rather than weekly
basis and is primarily determined by the number and quality of wicket strips on a pitch ‘square’. Play is
rotated throughout the season across the wicket strips on a pitch square to reduce wear and allow for
repair. Each wicket strip can accommodate a certain amount of play per season. As a guide, the ECB
suggests a good quality strip (which should be aspired to) should able to take:
• 5 matches per season per grass strip (adults);
• 60 matches per season per non turf strip (adults); and
3.3.25 Demand is measured in terms of the number of home games (called Match Equivalent Sessions (MES))
that each team will play per season. Only one game is traditionally played on a pitch per day, particularly
for senior fixtures, due to the length of time that a game takes to finish. As well as the ability of the strip
to sustain the required amount of play.
3.3.26 Based upon the above parameters, Figure 3.7 and the accompanying commentary provide an overview
of site specific activity for the venues hosting community cricket in Plymouth.
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3.3.27 The estimates of the numbers of MES played is based on consultation with the ECB and desktop based
research into the clubs - the number of wicket strips on each club’s square is multiplied by the notional
capacity of those strips (see 3.2).
Figure 3.7 – Site capacity relative to demand (Harewood House) – 10 grass strips; 1 artificial strip (based on analysis of 2018 updated data)
Club using the Site
Spare Match Slots Carrying Capacity
Saturday Sunday Midweek Adult
Demand vs. Grass
Junior Demand vs
NTP
Total Supply
vs Total Demand
Grass Supply vs
Total Demand
Plympton CC
At Capacity At Capacity At Capacity -5 12 7 -53
Figure 3.8 – Site capacity relative to demand (Mount Wise) - 10 grass strips; 1 artificial strip (based on analysis of 2018 updated data)
Club(s) using the Site
Spare Match Slots Carrying Capacity
Saturday Sunday Midweek Adult
Demand vs. Grass
Junior Demand vs
NTP
Total Supply
vs Total Demand
Grass Supply vs
Total Demand
Plymouth CC / University of Plymouth CC
At Capacity At Capacity At Capacity -20 12 -8 -68
3.3.28 Comment:
• It is estimated that the site hosts around 70 senior and 48 junior MES per season (2018).
• The square is rated as being of ‘good’ standard (2014).
• The ideal number of matches that the square (rotating all the available strips) can ideally host
is around 50 MES.
• If all the adult match play took place on the grass wicket, the level of use would push the use
of the grass wickets over capacity.
• The club report that the existing artificial wicket is used to host junior and ladies matches. The
NTP is estimated to just below its capacity.
• The site is believed to be in use at all peak time sessions. Therefore, no further teams can be
added to the site.
Figure 3.9 – Site capacity relative to demand (Deans Cross) - 11 grass strips; 1 artificial strip (based on analysis of 2018 updated data)
Club(s) using the Site
Spare Match Slots Carrying Capacity
Saturday Sunday Midweek Adult
Demand vs. Grass
Junior Demand vs
NTP
Total Supply
vs Total Demand
Grass Supply vs
Total Demand
Plymstock CC At Capacity At Capacity At Capacity 10 12 38 -22
3.3.29 Comment:
• It is estimated that the site hosts around 45 senior and 48 junior MES per season (2018).
• The square is rated as being of ‘good’ standard (2014).
• The ideal number of matches that the wicket (rotating all the available strips) can ideally host
is around 55 MES.
• If all the match play took place on the grass wicket, the wear and tear would be unacceptable
and the site would be classed as overplayed.
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• The club report that the existing artificial wicket is used to host junior matches. The grass
wicket table is therefore probably used within its estimated carrying capacity.
• The square is thought to be operating without any spare peak-time match slots. This means
no further teams can be added to the site.
Figure 3.10 – Site capacity relative to demand (Plymouth College (Delgany Field) - 9 grass strips; 0 artificial strips (based on analysis of 2018 updated data)
Club(s) using the Site
Spare Match Slots Carrying Capacity
Saturday Sunday Midweek Adult
Demand vs. Grass
Junior Demand vs
NTP
Total Supply
vs Total Demand
Grass Supply vs
Total Demand
University of St. Mark and St. John CC
At Capacity 1 NA 25 NA 25 25
3.3.30 Comment:
• It is estimated that the site hosts around 20 senior MES per season (2018).
• The square is rated as being of ‘good’ standard (2014).
• The ideal number of matches that the wicket (rotating all the available strips) can ideally host
is around 45 MES per season.
• The site is therefore considered have sufficient carrying capacity to meet existing demand.
• The site does have spare match slots and spare capacity for further use but is not thought to
be open for community use to other teams or clubs.
Figure 3.11 – Site capacity relative to demand (Plymouth College (Main Site) - 8 grass strips; 0 artificial strips) (based on analysis of 2018 updated data)
Club(s) using the Site
Spare Match Slots Carrying Capacity
Saturday Sunday Midweek Adult
Demand vs. Grass
Junior Demand
vs NTP
Total Supply
vs Total Demand
Grass Supply vs
Total Demand
Plymouth College (Main Site)
At Capacity At Capacity At Capacity 30 -50 -20 -20
3.3.31 Comment:
• It is estimated that the site hosts around 60 senior MES per season (2018).
• The square is rated as being of ‘good’ standard (2014).
• The ideal number of matches that the wicket (rotating all the available strips) can ideally host
is around 40 MES per season.
• The site is therefore considered have sufficient carrying capacity to meet existing demand.
• The site does have spare match slots and spare capacity for further use but is not thought to
be open for community use to other teams or clubs.
Figure 3.12 – Site capacity relative to demand (Non-Plymouth Sites) (based on analysis of 2018 updated data)
Site Name
Spare Match Slots Carrying Capacity
Plymouth Based Club(s) using the Site
Saturday Sunday Mid-week
Adult Demand
vs. Grass
Junior Demand vs NTP
Total Supply vs
Total Demand
Grass Supply vs
Total Demand
Gunnislake Plympton CC At Capacity - - 16 NA 16 16
Buckland Plymouth CC / Plymstock At Capacity 0.5 2 27 NA 27 27
Lewdown Plympton CC At Capacity 0.5 2 32 60 92 32
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Site Name
Spare Match Slots Carrying Capacity
Plymouth Based Club(s) using the Site
Saturday Sunday Mid-week
Adult Demand
vs. Grass
Junior Demand vs NTP
Total Supply vs
Total Demand
Grass Supply vs
Total Demand
Yealmpton Plymstock CC At Capacity 0.5 4 25 60 85 25
Roborough CC Plymouth CS & Roborough CC At Capacity 0.5 2 -5 60 55 -5
3.3.32 Comment:
• The table shows that all grounds used by Plymouth based clubs are ‘At Capacity’ during
Saturday match slots. This means that any further teams produced in the city wishing to play
at this time will not only have to travel outside of the city but cannot utilise any of the pitches
listed above.
• The table also shows that there is sufficient spare carrying capacity to meet the exported
demand from Plymouth based teams with the exception of the Roborough CC site. The site is
currently being used by the newly combined Plymouth Civil Service and Roborough Cricket
Club. The ground is thought to have 5 grass strips in a ‘poor’ condition and is reported to
have demand of 30 MES placed upon it.
• It should be noted that each ground is thought to have spare peak time capacity during
midweek match slots when juniors are expected to play. Given the findings from tables 3.8 -
3.12, where all available sites are considered to be at capacity during midweek time slots, it is
expected that any additional demand will need to be met by grounds based outside of the
city, unless new grounds can be provided in the interim.
3.4 Scenario testing: the Future
FUTURE PICTURE OF PROVISION
3.4.1 The future requirement for playing pitches will be impacted by several factors, including;
• A Changes to the number of people living in the area and / or to the demographic
profile of the population;
• B Changes in participation trends and in how pitch sports are played;
• C Club specific development plans and aspirations; and,
• D Amendments to the current facility stock either through the provision of new pitches
or the loss of current pitches.
3.4.2 These issues are considered in turn in order to build a picture of future demand for playing pitches.
TEAM GENERATION RATES
3.4.3 Team Generation Rates (TGRs) indicate how many people in a specified age group are required to
generate one team. TGRs are derived by dividing the appropriate population age band by the number of
teams playing within that area in that age band. By applying TGRs to population projections, we can
project the theoretical number of teams that would be generated from population growth and gain an
understanding of future demand.
3.4.4 Figure 3.13 overleaf summarises the current TGRs for cricket in Plymouth and uses them to assess the
potential impact of projected changes to the population profile on demand for cricket.
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Figure 3.13 - TGRs and Potential Change to Number of Cricket Teams in Plymouth: 2018–2034 (based on analysis of 2018 updated data)
Age Group
No. of teams in age group
Current popn in
age group (2018)
Future popn in
age group (2034)
Current TGR
Popn.
Change
in Age
Group
Potential Change in
Team Numbers
Total Number of Projected
Teams
Cricket Open Age Men’s (18-55yrs) 22.5 67,786 68,811 3,013 1,026 0 23
Cricket Open Age Women’s (18-55yrs) 6 65,335 63,150 10,889 -2,185 0 6
Cricket Junior (7-18yrs) 35 34,070 35,118 973 1,047 1 36
Source: Population data: Office of National Statistics, 2016-based Subnational Population Projections: 2018-2034 (May 2018) incorporating Plymouth and South Devon Joint Local Plan Housing Trajectory.
3.4.5 The above table shows that:
• Adult Cricket – in the periods 2018 - 2034 the number of adults aged between 18 and 55
(the age groups that typically play adult cricket) will increase slightly, and therefore, based on
latest population projections, future participation in adult cricket to 2034 is likely to remain in
line with current levels, with no increase in the number of teams anticipated as a result
of population change; and
• Junior Cricket – in the period 2018 - 2034 the number of young people aged between 7 and
18 (the age groups that typically play junior cricket) is projected to increase, creating
additional demand equivalent to 1 junior cricket team (0.5 match equivalents per week).
PLANNED CHANGE IN THE POPULATION
3.4.6 The above projects the change in team numbers arising out of natural change in the population up to
2034. There is also a need to consider any additional teams generated from population change resulting
from planned new development. Strategic housing studies suggest that there may be a need to cater for
a city population of around 303,727 by 2034, based on a growing employment base, and new residents
therefore being attracted into the area. This suggests an additional 25,000 beyond those catered for in
the above calculations (Figure 3.13).
3.4.7 It is assumed that the age structure of this additional 25,000 people is similar to the present population,
then an application of the above TGRs would suggest a possible:
• 4 adult (3x male and 1x female) cricket teams (40 MES); and
• 5 junior teams (40 MES)
3.4.8 When the above are added to the changes arising from natural population change (para 5.58), the
combined effected of natural and planned population change up to 2034 is estimated to be:
• 4 adult teams (3x male and 1x female = 40 match equivalents per week); and,
• 5 junior teams (48 MES).
3.4.9 The combined effects of both natural and population change will therefore put an additional pressure on
the existing supply of cricket facilities.
CHANGES IN PARTICIPATION TRENDS AND HOW SPORT IS PLAYED
3.4.10 Changes in participation may perhaps have the most significant impact upon future demand for cricket
pitches. Analysis of recent trends in participation reveals the following;
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• The three established clubs have indicated that there has been little growth in numbers of
teams in recent years. The stabilising of cricket, and the increasing challenge of attracting
participants means that the Devon Cricket Board are focusing upon a strategy of retaining
existing players and supporting increased participation where opportunities arise. They are
seeking to address many of the issues currently facing cricket, including the ageing volunteer
base and to support clubs to become more sustainable.
• In recognition of changing lifestyle patterns and the challenges of 50 over cricket, the ECB
are now seeking to introduce alternative forms of the game, including Last Man Standing and
T20. These are similar in format to the midweek, and weekend leagues and offer people who
are unable to participate in full matches shorter forms of the game.
• The ECB therefore currently has an overall focus on player retention and is not anticipating
significant growth in club-based cricket, instead highlighting potential to grow more informal
formats of the game.
• This may result in the growth of more casual play and midweek leagues and this could
generate demand for ‘casual’ venues within Plymouth. A central, accessible venue would be
ideal. In addition to this, the ECB’s ‘Chance to Shine’ campaign may induce additional interest
amongst children. The survey of facilities has shown there are several schools with artificial
wickets as part of their campus provision. Which may form the basis of greater community
use for more casual forms of the game, with or without school-club links.
ALL STARS CRICKET
3.4.11 In 2017 the ECB launched the national All Stars Cricket programme. Targeted at 5-8 year olds, the
programme has achieved 120 sign-ups in Plymouth since its inception. The ECB has asked this PPP to
reflect how such a number of members might impact on the number of teams playing in Plymouth. This
projection is shown below in figure 3.14 and is based on 15 players being required to regularly field an
11 person team.
Figure 3.14 – Projected impact of All Stars Cricket bases on retention of 120 sign-ups (based on analysis
of 2018 data)
Age Group
Current Number of teams
Additional Teams produced based on a retention rate of:
10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70%
80%
90%
100%
Juniors 35 0 1 2 3 4 4 5 6 7 8
Adults 28.5 0 1 2 3 4 4 5 6 7 8
* Optimistic Retention Rate / Moderate Retention Rate / Pessimistic Retention Rate
3.4.12 Using the mid-point of the moderate projection for retaining players into both the junior and eventually the
senior teams of clubs, figure 3.14 shows that the 120 All Stars sign-ups may produce around 4 additional
junior teams and 2 additional adult teams. None of the grounds currently used by the 3 clubs running All
Stars Cricket are considered to have spare peak-time capacity to accommodate any of these new teams.
3.4.13 It should be noted that the All Stars Cricket is still a new programme and retention rates even into junior
cricket are unknown at this stage.
DEVELOPMENT PLANS AND ASPIRATIONS (2014 DATA WITH 2018 UPDATES VIA CONSULTAITONS)
3.4.14 The Devon Cricket Board has produced a Strategic Plan for 2012 – 2017. With regard to facilities, the
themes of particular relevance to Plymouth are:
• a need for 5 more cricket pitches in Plymouth available for clubs and schools
• cricket provision in Plymouth is of high concern due to the uncertainty of long-term leases for
Club Marked clubs and other affiliated clubs
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• the disposal of the Plymouth Civil Service Cricket Club. This issue may be mirrored at other
Civil Service sites across Devon
• focus on ensuring cricket clubs retain and provide for people aged sixteen and above, there is
a serious need to create or rejuvenate pitches to cope with future demand.
3.4.15 The club questionnaire survey in 2014 did not shed much light on the aspirations of the three established
clubs. There did not appear to be a desire to develop additional teams. However, there were plans for
facilities that would perhaps help in coping better with existing needs:
• Plymouth CC (Mountwise) would like additional non-turf strips and nets
• Plympton CC (Harewood) would like a new clubhouse
• Plymstock CC (Deans Cross) would like an additional non-turf wicket for a potential second
pitch
3.4.16 Where possible the 2014 strategy held additional phone conversations with secretaries of local clubs, as
well as Plymouth Civil Service and Roborough CC (the club formed after the displacement of the
Plymouth Civil Service Club following the removal of Beacon Park as a Cricket facility). These have been
updated following consultation with the ECB in 2018. The following is a summary of each club drawing
together these two sources:
3.4.17 Plympton CC: The club is happy with its current size, and don’t feel they have the resources to develop
further. The club runs three regular Saturday senior teams, meaning there is a need to find a second
facility for the 3rd XI. For some time, this has been provided at the Gunnislake facility in Cornwall (which
has meant additional travel for team members). Facilities at Yealmpton and Tavistock have also been
used. However, various league regulations have made this arrangement difficult to maintain. Plymouth
College now offer the club use of their facilities, which will allow for more games to be played locally.
The club would like a longer tenancy (from the City Council) to allow it to develop facilities at Harewood
Park (a minimum of a 30-year lease to enable the club to qualify for various external grant aid schemes).
3.4.18 Plymouth Civil Service and Roborough CC: Plymouth Civil Service CC used to play at Beacon Park,
before the site was redeveloped. The club then moved to Buckfastleigh. However, the club secretary
believes that the club was removed from its player catchment- it lost many of its junior members and
continues to suffer from falling membership (even though it has now relocated to and merged with the
Roborough CC). The secretary believes the facilities and the catchment at its current venue are not
sufficient to attract new members.
A relocation back to within Plymouth is therefore viewed as its only prospect for ultimate survival, through
re-igniting interest amongst young people within a big catchment area. The proposed redevelopment of
the Manadon centre would provide a new cricket facility within the City, which would provide exclusive
use of the playing surface during much of the cricket season. If the club could be relocated to Manadon,
they have been told by the County Cricket Board that they would be invited into the ECB’s ‘Chance to
Shine’ development programme.
3.4.19 Plymouth CC: The club have four regular Saturday teams, and therefore need two venues. They used to
use Peverell Park, but this has now been enclosed into an area shared by the Goals complex, and the
cricket pitch was lost. The club then relocated its 2nd and 3rd teams to Torpoint to use a facility made
available after the team that occupied it folded. Facilities at Torpoint are considered to be poor.
The club has the use of a grass wicket table at Plymouth College (Main site). This facility has already
been used by the 3rd XI and will from next season be used by the 4th XI. The facility is also available for
use by the school, with which the club is developing strong links.
The club appears to be happy with its facilities at Mount Wise, recognizing that changes taking place in
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the wider area will make their location more prime. However, the secretary does not believe the club
wishes to expand much more than its present size.
3.4.20 Although it is difficult to put a figure on the number of teams that are likely to be generated by these
aspirations, it is considered the case that the reintroduction of the Civil Service CC back into the City
would increase the number of teams – perhaps initially 2 adult teams and a range of juniors. In addition,
the desired expansion of Plymstock to have a second ground would allow for additional adult teams to be
developed as well as a range of juniors.
3.4.21 The additional teams likely to be generated through natural and planned population change (para 5.69)
would help to justify an additional cricket facility. These increased demands, alongside the desire of
Plymstock CC to have a second ground would certainly warrant provision of an additional ground. The
relocation of the Civil Service Club back into Plymouth would also help to justify the need for a second
additional ground.
FORTHCOMING CHANGES TO THE SUPPLY
3.4.22 Central Park: Plymouth City Council has committed to undertaking a programme of improvements to
Central Park. The overall ambition is identified in the Master plan for Central Park that was adopted by
the Council in March 2013.
3.4.23 Central Park is the largest park in Plymouth covering 94 hectares (232 acres). It was originally created in
1928 as a park devoted to the improvement of the health of city residents. The Master plan was created
as a response to the need identified in the Central Park Area Action Plan (AAP) for a comprehensive
strategy of improvement to ensure the park achieves its potential as a key public space for the City.
3.4.24 The City Council has worked with a wide range of stakeholders to develop the Master Plan for Central
Park and the Sports Plateau has been identified as the priority for sports pitch enhancements.
3.4.25 The Sports Plateau is the first in a series of proposed enhancements to sports pitches in Central Park.
As of July 2018, an improvement project is currently underway which will significantly improve the
drainage and re arrange the site to provide additional junior football pitches, 1 x senior artificial cricket
wicket and 1 x senior rugby pitch.
3.4.26 Through consultation with the ECB, the Council is confident that use of the cricket facility will develop
over time. Evidence from other urban areas shows that initially use is likely to be informal, however
through active promotion the City Council expect more formal and regular users to come forward and
make use of the opportunity in the future.
3.4.27 The facility is not expected to meet formal demand in the city but be well-used to facilitate informal
cricket.
3.4.28 Manadon Sports and Community Hub: Plymouth City Council have worked in partnership with Argyle
Community Trust to development an outdoor sports hub in the city on St Peter’s Road. Due for
completion in 2019/20 is a full redevelopment of the site which will include an FA approved 3G pitch with
floodlights, 2 new junior grass football pitches, a new artificial cricket wicket, 8 grass cricket wickets and
a two storey pavilion. Argyle Community Trust have taken on the lease under a community asset transfer
arrangement, along with responsibility for ongoing maintenance and day to day operations. Plymouth
Civil Service and Roborough CC have been identified as the primary users for this site. The site will
accommodate junior cricket in 2019 and senior cricket from 2020.
3.4.29 Peverell Park: Located in the north eastern corner of Central Park, for the purposes of this chapter, this
site will be considered separately to the Central Park developments described above.
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3.4.30 The cricket square at Peverell Park is allocated as a cricket facility in the JLP and it is hoped that this site
will available for use, subject to the necessary funding and infrastructure improvements. The ECB has
expressed a desire to enter into conversations with the leaseholder of the site to reintroduce cricket on
this site. This would represent a very useful expansion in the facility base. The site was formerly used by
Plymouth CC but has remained unused for 8 years. Plymouth CC are understood to have a strong desire
to return to the site. This would allow them to grow both their senior and junior sections. However it
should be noted that this project is still in relatively early stages of development with the ECB and PCC
yet to meet to discuss the opportunity formally.
3.4.31 Sherford: Planning application for a 8x grass wicket square plus an NTP and full changing provision. The
date of completion for this project is currently unknown but the facility is believed to be built into the
master planning of the site. It should be noted that this pitch is allocated for the residents of the new
community.
AMENDMENTS TO THE CURRENT FACILITY STOCK EITHER THROUGH THE PROVISION OF NEW PITCHES OR THE LOSS OF CURRENT PITCHES
3.4.32 Due to the high number of pitches utilised by Plymouth based clubs and teams to meet demand, the
ECB has requested the modelling of supply and demand should be undertaken to show a scenario in
which all non-Plymouth based pitches are removed from the supply.
3.4.33 Currently a number of teams use facilities outside of the city to meet demand. If this demand were to be
required to move back into the city figures 3.8 - 3.12 clearly shows that there is little peak-time availability
to accommodate them.
3.4.34 If, by some possibility these matches could be played outside of peak-times, Figure 3.15 below, shows
the difference impact of this demand being met by existing pitch supply.
Figure 3.15 – Impact of the loss of Pitches not based in Plymouth (based on analysis of 2018 updated data)
Adult Demand vs Grass Capacity
Junior Demand vs NTP Capacity
Total Supply vs Total Demand
Grass Supply vs All Demand
Capacity Balance (ALL Supply VS. ALL Demand)
145.0 240.0 385.0 5.0
ALL Demand VS. Plymouth based pitch supply ONLY
-5.0 60.0 55.0 -125.0
3.4.35 Figure 3.15 shows that, as opposed to the current situation, where there is just about sufficient
theoretical capacity to meet demand, should the non-Plymouth pitches become unavailable to Plymouth
based clubs, Plymouth sites would be significantly overplayed.
3.4.36 This is important because overplay of pitches is known to lead to a deterioration of pitch quality and
participant’s enjoyment of the game. Consequentially, overplaying pitches can have an adverse impact
on participation in a sport within a local area.
3.4.37 The findings above reinforces the need for additional cricket facilities within Plymouth to be provided.
This is with the expressed requirement of creating additional peak-time capacity within the city on
Saturday afternoons. This is necessary to enable all clubs covered in this strategy to have their 3rd and
4th teams able to play within the city and removing the need for clubs to use unsecured facilities located a
significant distance from the clubs main home ground. Specifically, supporting the development of the
square at Manadon Sports and Community Hub is absolutely essential to bringing the number of pitches
in the City back to the required level. Furthermore, Peverell Park is considered to be a good opportunity
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to add a further pitch to the City which is required to meet current and future projected demand.
Therefore, this will be referenced in the strategy as a priority for cricket in Plymouth.
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4 Rugby Union analysis
4.1.1 This section assesses the adequacy of pitches for rugby union in Plymouth by presenting the following:
• An overview of pitch supply
• An overview of demand for rugby
• The pattern of play of rugby
• A review of the capacity and adequacy of current provision across Plymouth, including an understanding of activity at individual sites
4.1.2 A summary of findings and key issues for the Plan to address - separate document.
4.1.3 It should be noted that this document represents a ‘marked-up’ version of the 2014 PPP Needs
Assessment. This means that where new data is available or the situation is known to have changed, the
figures and commentary relating to this have been updated. Where the information is thought to have
remained consistent with the 2014 study, or no new information is available, this has been carried
forward into this study.
4.2 Overview of Pitch Supply
4.2.1 There are 19 sites containing facilities for rugby in the Plymouth area. This figure includes all known
public, private, school and other pitches whether or not they are in secured community use. It includes
two sites (Plymouth Argaum, and Horsham Playing Fields) which are just outside the City boundary, but
whose users have a strong affinity with the City itself, as will be detailed. It also considers facilities owned
and managed by the MoD that have some record of community use.
4.2.2 The total pitch provision across Plymouth is summarised in Figure 4.1, and detailed in Figure 4.2. The
venues are a mixture of club, education and local authority sites (a full audit of pitches can be found in
the accompanying PPP data sheets).
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Figure 4.1 – Rugby venues in Plymouth
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Figure 4.2 – Rugby pitches in Plymouth City (2018 data)
Name Availability Ownership Pitches Adult Rugby
Brickfields A1 PCC 2 (plus a non-WR22 compliant floodlit 3G AGPs
the training pitch)
Horsham A1 PCC (leased- now
subject to an asset transfer)
3 (including 2 senior match pitches, 1 training pitch and a large grassed area on the upper
plateau which contains 3x mini pitches (u7-u12)
King George V Playing Fields A1 PCC 3
Weston Mill Oak Villa A2 PCC (leased) 1 (plus a small floodlit training area)
Parkway Sports and Social Club Optimus Park
A2 PCC (leased) 1 (partially floodlit pitch)
Plymouth Argaum A2 Private 2 (plus a floodlit training area)
Stonehouse Creek Leisure Club A2 PCC 3
Marsh Mills/St. Boniface's A3 Education (academy)
1
All Saints Academy A3 Education (academy)
1
Ridgeway School A3 Education (academy)
1
Marjons A3 Education (private)
2 (one of which is a floodlit WR22 compliant 3G AGP)
Plymstock Community College A3 Education (academy)
1
Heles School A3 Education (academy)
1
Tor Bridge High School (Miller Way) A3 Education (academy)
2
Rectory Lane B/C MoD 1
Notre Dame RC School C PCC Education 1
St. Boniface's RC College C PCC Education 1
Plymouth College (Main Site) C Education (private)
1
Plymouth College (Delganey Field B Education (private)
1
HMS Devonport – Keyham C MoD 1 (a floodlit WR22 compliant 3G AGP)
CLUB SITES
4.2.3 There are seven club-managed sites, as listed below:
• Brickfields
• Weston Mill Oak Villa
• Parkway Sports and Social Club Optimus Park
• Plymouth Argaum
• Stonehouse Creek Leisure Club
• Horsham Playing Fields (the subject of a successful asset transfer procedure between the City Council and Plymstock Albion Oaks RUFC).
4.2.4 Marsh Mills/St. Boniface's had previously been used by Plympton Victoria RFC, however the club has
been given notice and are no longer able to access the pitches in the future.
4.2.5 Most of these sites will be secured on a leasehold basis, from land owners, such as the City Council. The
former Civil Service Sports Ground also used to have rugby facilities, but this has now been lost to other
sports use. Use of Rectory Lane, HMS Devonport – Keyham and Marjons should be considered sites
with the greatest risk to security of tenure.
LOCAL AUTHORITY MANAGED SITES
4.2.6 The following sites are owned and managed largely by the city council;
• King George V Playing Fields.
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EDUCATION SITES
4.2.7 The following education sites offer rugby facilities;
• All Saints Academy
• Ridgeway School
• Marjons
• Plymstock Community College
• Heles School
• Tor Bridge High School (Miller Way)
• Notre Dame RC School
• St. Boniface's RC College
• Plymouth College (2 sites).
4.2.8 Only some of these education sites would appear to be actively promoted for community use, as will be
discussed shortly.
OTHER SITES
4.2.9 Rectory Lane and HMS Devonport - Keyham are both owned by the MoD. Devonport Services RFC
uses Rectory Lane. This club’s teams play in community leagues and have open membership. However,
HMS Devonport – Keyham is not used by the vast majority of community clubs, with the only non-MoD
use recorded as being University of Plymouth RUFC and Devonport Services for just 1 training session
per week.
SHARED SITES
4.2.10 Several sites are in fact shared with other pitch sports, especially on education sites. In theory, Council
sites will also be available for use by the wider community and will therefore entertain a significant
element of informal sports and recreational use. These include Parkway Sports and Social Club where it
is shared with football.
CLOSED SITES
4.2.11 Sites that have in recent years been lost to rugby include the Civil Service Sports Ground.
SITE SUMMARY
4.2.12 The following summarises provision, as far as is known, at identified sites
Brickfields
4.2.13 There is 2 full-sized rugby pitches on this site. There is also a half-size 3G pitch used exclusively for
training. The main pitch is floodlit, as is the 3G pitch.
4.2.14 The site is used by Plymouth Albion RUFC’s (2 adult men’s and 1 women’s team); and, the University of
Plymouth men’s and women’s teams. They also use the 3G pitch for training.
Central Park Sports Plateau
4.2.15 No demand is recorded against this site in the 2018 review.
4.2.16 There is one full size rugby pitch on the site. This is being re-provided as part of an investment
programme in pitches which also includes 2 junior football pitches and an artificial cricket wicket. This
work is currently underway at the time of writing. It is hoped that the new facilities will be available for the
19/20 season.
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Horsham
4.2.17 This is an important site for local rugby. The pitch site has 3 full-size rugby pitches and 3x Mini pitches.
There is also an ‘upper plateau’ to the site that is used by mini teams. The Plymstock Albion Oaks RUFC
have 3 adult male and 1 women’s teams. They also have 5 junior male teams, and 12 mini-rugby teams.
King George V Playing Fields
4.2.18 Another important site for local rugby. The site hosts 3 x adult rugby pitches. The site is the principle
home ground for OPM RUFC and is also used by the University of Plymouth RFC too. The former has 3
men’s, 2 youth teams and 8 mini-rugby teams using the site.
Weston Mill Oak Villa
4.2.19 The site has 1 full-size rugby pitch and a floodlit training area. It is used by Old Technicians RUFC, which
has one adult male team.
Parkway Sports and Social Club Optimus Park
4.2.20 The site has 1 x full-size rugby pitch that is used by Tamar Saracens RUFC which has (2 men’s, 1 youth
boys, 8 mini rugby teams). There is also a dedicated grass training area.
Plymouth Argaum
4.2.21 The site is used by Plymouth Argaum RUFC, and has 2 x full-size adult pitches and a small floodlit
training area. The site also hosts Plymouth Argaum RUFC, which runs 2 men’s teams, 1 youth male
team and 10 mini rugby teams
Stonehouse Creek
4.2.22 The site has 3 full-size adult rugby pitches. It hosts Devonport High School Old Boys RUFC which fields
1 adult male, 2 youth and 4 x mini-rugby teams. The site is also used by Devonport RFC as an overflow
site.
Marsh Mills/St. Boniface's
4.2.23 There is 1 x full-size rugby pitch on this site, which hosts the single adult male team of Plympton Victoria
RUFC. The site also has a grass training area also. The club has been given notice by the school and
will not be able to access the pitches in the future. It is thought this pitch will be retained but will not have
community access in the future.
All Saints Academy
4.2.24 The site has 1 full-size rugby pitch which is not used by the community.
Ridgeway School
4.2.25 There is a 1 full-size adult rugby pitch on site. The school would like to develop an AGP on site.
Marjons
4.2.26 There is 1 full size grass rugby pitch. A World Rugby 22-compliant 3G pitch has also been developed
recently, which can host rugby matches. The site is the base for the University of St. Mark and St. John’s
Rugby Club which has 2 men’s and 1 women’s team.
Plymstock Community College
4.2.27 There is 1 full-time adult rugby pitch on the site, but no apparent community use.
Heles School
4.2.28 1 full-size adult rugby pitch is marked out on this site. The school has stated its desire to provide an AGP
pitch.
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Tor Bridge High School (Miller Way)
4.2.29 There are 2 full-size adult rugby pitches on this site, along with a full-size 3G pitch.
Rectory Lane
4.2.30 This site is owned by the MoD and hosts 1 x full-size pitch in an enclosure.
4.2.31 Devonport Services RUFC field a number of teams including 3 men’s teams, 1 women’s team, 1 male
colts team, 4 youth male teams, 2 youth female teams and 12 mini rugby teams.
Notre Dame RC School
4.2.32 This site hosts 1 full-size pitch that is not used by community clubs.
St. Boniface's RC College
4.2.33 The school has 1 full-size rugby pitch, but appears to rely on other facilities, and there is no apparent
community use.
Plymouth College (includes the main campus and the Delganey Field)
4.2.34 There is 1 full-time adult rugby pitch on the main campus site (but no apparent community use of the
grass pitches). There are 3 full-size pitches on the Delganey Field. There is some external use of the
grass pitches at Delganey, such as by teams from Marjons.
QUALITY SCORING OF SITES
4.2.35 The score given to the overall pitch quality is based upon Sport England’s new playing pitch strategy
guidance – found at (https://www.sportengland.org/media/3522/pps-guidance-october-2013-updated.pdf)
4.2.36 There are two scores recorded on the assessment form: one is for pitch maintenance (frequency of
aeration and surface dressing) and the other is for the type of drainage a particular pitch has (natural,
pipe drained, pipe ‘and slit drained, unknown). Also noted but not scored on the assessment forms are
qualitative and ancillary information (length and coverage of grass, size of pitch, problem areas, condition
and safety of goal posts, and availability of changing, floodlighting and car parking).
4.2.37 The scores gathered during the 2014 assessment (where all sites were visited) were used as a starting
point for determining carrying capacity and quality of the sites. These were then up-dated using the
knowledge from the RFU officers and other steering group members.
4.2.38 Most of the facilities assessed were rated either standard or poor. The Brickfields stadium pitch was rated
as being of good quality.
4.2.39 It is recommended that these sites are re-visited as part of the next Playing Pitch Plan, which
should be implemented by 2022.
4.2.40 The pitches at Stonehouse Creek were rated as being in poor condition, at the time of the visits. The
results of the pitch rating exercise are summarized below.
Figure 4.3 - Rugby Pitch Quality Rating (2018 data)
Site Ownership / Management
Access Type Surface Quality Capacity Floodlit?
Brickfields LA A1
Senior Match Pitch
Grass Good 3.5 Yes - Fully
Senior Match Pitch
Grass Poor 1.5 No
Training Area
Non-WR22 AGP
Poor 12* Yes - Fully
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Site Ownership / Management
Access Type Surface Quality Capacity Floodlit?
Horsham LA A1
Senior Match Pitch
Grass Good 3.5 No
Senior Training
Pitch Grass Good 3.5 Yes - Fully
Senior Match Pitch
Grass Good 3.5 No
Mini Pitch
Grass Poor 1 No
Mini Pitch
Grass Poor 1 No
Mini Pitch
Grass Poor 1 No
King George V Playing
Fields LA A1
Senior Match Pitch
Grass Standard 2 Yes -
Partially
Senior Match Pitch
Grass Standard 2 No
Senior Match Pitch
Grass Standard 2 No
Marjons Education (private)
A3
Senior Match Pitch
Grass Standard 2.5 No
Senior Match Pitch
WR22 AGP Good 12* Yes - Fully
Marsh Mills/St.
Boniface's
Education/ Sports Club
C Senior Match Pitch
Grass Standard 2.5 No
Parkway Sports and Social Club
Optimus Park
Club A2 Senior Match Pitch
Grass Poor 1 Partially -
50%
Plymouth Argaum
Private A2
Senior Match Pitch
Grass Poor 1.5 No
Senior Match Pitch
Grass Poor 1.5 No
Training Area
Grass Poor 0.5 Yes -
Partially
Rectory Lane MoD C Senior Match Pitch
Grass Good 3 Yes - Fully
Stonehouse Creek
LA A2
Senior Match Pitch
Grass Poor 0.5 No
Senior Match Pitch
Grass Poor 0.5 No
Senior Match Pitch
Grass Poor 0.5 No
Weston Mill Oak Villa
LA A2
Senior Match Pitch
Grass Standard 2 No
Training Area
Grass Poor 1 Yes -
Partially
HMS Devonport -
Keyham MoD A3 / C
Senior Match Pitch
WR22 AGP Standard 2 Yes - Fully
Devonport High School
for Boys Education A2
Training Area
Non-WR22 AGP
Standard 10* Yes - Fully
*It should be noted that these hours are the theoretical maximum available hours – in reality these facilities are likely to be booked for other activities at peak times.
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4.2.41 Figure 4.3 is a summary of a longer technical assessment. It confirms that several facilities in the city are
generally considered to be only ‘standard’ or ‘poor’ quality. In overall terms, the quality of pitches at
Stonehouse Creek (home of Devon Port High School Old Boys), is especially poor due to issues caused
by poor drainage.
4.3 Overview of Demand
Active Lives Data (Sport England)
4.3.1 The Sport England Active Lives Survey can be used in helping to evaluate the proportion of the adult
population that are likely to participate in rugby. More information on the Sport England Active Lives Tool
can be found here. The key messages for rugby are:
• 1.2% of adult residents in Plymouth participated in some form of rugby at least twice within the last 28 days, representing around 2,594 people.
• Of this group: o around 0.6% participated in 15-a-side rugby matches o around 0.2% participated in training sessions
• The Sport England Local Profile resources (available here) indicate there are currently 55.7% of adult residents that would like to do more sport
CURRENT PARTICIPATION
4.3.2 The total number of teams being fielded by each of the existing local teams is as follows:
Figure 4.4 -– Number of teams fielded by Plymouth’s rugby clubs (2018)
Club Name Adult male
Adult female
Colts male
(18-u19)
Colts female
(18-u19)
Youth male (u13-17)
Youth female
(u13-17)
Mini rugby (u12)
Total
Plympton Victoria RFC 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
OPM RUFC 2 0 0 0 2 0 8 12
Plymouth Argaum RUFC 2 0 0 0 1 0 10 13
University of Plymouth RUFC 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 4
Old Technicians RUFC 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
Plymouth Albion RUFC 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1
Devonport High School Old Boys RFC
1 0 1 0 2 0 4 8
University of St. Mark and St. John 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 3
Tamar Saracens RFC 2 0 0 0 1 0 8 11
Plymstock Albion Oaks RUFC 3 1 0 0 5 0 12 21
Devonport Services RFC 3 1 1 1 4 2 12 24
Total 21 4 2 1 15 2 54 99
SUMMARY OF CLUBS
4.3.3 As is the picture nationally, rugby in Plymouth tends to be characterized by an ethos of club self-provision
and management, with several clubs assuming responsibility for their own facilities (providing there is
some degree of security of tenure). There are also rugby clubs in Plymouth that rely on council provision-
such as the University of Plymouth club, and teams playing at Stonehouse Creek. Certain clubs that play
their home fixtures on pitches outside the city have been included in this study, because of the strong
affinity their players will have with the City. (University of Plymouth and Plymouth Argaum are two such
clubs).
TRENDS IN PARTICIPATION
4.3.4 In the Devon-wide club questionnaire conducted as part of the joint survey covering Plymouth, South
Hams, and West Devon local authorities, only three teams from Plymouth responded in time for inclusion
in this report. However, as shown below, the response rate for the three local authority areas as a whole
suggested most respondents felt membership levels had remained largely static. Changes in
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membership does not in itself control the number of teams a club fields. Of the two Plymouth-based clubs
that did respond to this questionnaire, Plymouth Albion said it had expanded to now field a women’s
team; and, Old Technicians stated they now occasionally run a men’s third team. However, the RFU
believe that there are opportunities for growth at:
• Horsham – Plymstock Albion Oaks – U13/U15/18 Girls
• Stonehouse Creek – General numbers in junior section
• King George V – Junior Age Grades if ancillary facilities were improved
• Plymouth Argaum – across all age and gender ranges Figure 4.5 – trends in membership over the last three seasons (2014 data)
Increased Decreased Stayed the Same
Adult Male 16.67%) 16.67% 66.67%
Adult Female 25%) 0% 75%
Junior / Colts 20%) 20% 60%
Minis / Midis 20% 20% 60%
4.3.5 The University of Plymouth, and the University of St. Mark and St, John both responded independently of
the club questionnaire survey. The University of Plymouth has added an additional men’s team; and, St.
Mark and St. John’s said that there had been no change over the three years.
ORIGIN OF PLAYERS
4.3.6 As shown below, the response rate for the three local authority areas as a whole suggested most club
players tended to travel between 1 and 5 miles to reach their home venue.
Figure 4.6 – Distance travelled by club players to reach home ground (2014 data)
Percentage of members 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Less than 1 mile from your main venue 66.7% (4)
16.7% (1)
16.7% (1)
0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
Between 1 and 5 miles from main venue 0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
16.7% (1)
50.0% (3)
0.0% (0)
33.3% (2)
0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
More than 5 miles from main venue 40.0% (2)
0.0% (0)
40.0% (2)
20.0% (1)
0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
0.0% (0)
4.3.7 University of Plymouth and the University of St. Mark and St, John responded independently of the club
questionnaire survey, and both responses confirmed the majority pattern of travel as from less than 1
mile to 5 miles for the majority of membership- unsurprising, given the proximity of most student
accommodation to the locale of match play.
PATTERN OF PLAY AND CAPACITY
4.3.8 The main leagues operating in the area are:
• Western Counties West League
• Devon League
• Devon and Cornwall League
• Fisherman’s Cup League
• BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sports)
4.3.9 The following represents a general estimate of when teams are likely to play.
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Figure 4.7 - Pattern of play of rugby teams
4.3.10 These patterns of play generally reflect those nationally. The relatively large adult/colt midweek fixtures
are due to BUCS fixtures which are typically played on Wednesday afternoons. This is covered in more
detail below in table 4.13, below.
TRAINING NEEDS
4.3.11 It is estimated that all clubs are likely to hold regular training sessions, taking place largely during the
mid-week evening periods. Generally, clubs train at their home grounds (either using pitch space, or land
specifically available for training purposes). Portable training floodlights will be available in some cases
where permanent floodlighting is not available. Other clubs and teams will use facilities off-site, such as
AGPs and/or sports halls for indoor training.
4.3.12 The following indicates the venues and facilities that local clubs are recorded as using for training
purposes. Some clubs play and train over more than one site, with the notable case being University of
Plymouth club teams (recorded as using Brickfields and Horsham for match play, but also Brickfields
facilities, Horsham and Central Park for training).
Figure 4.8 - Where rugby clubs train
Club Name Home Ground Training Ground
Plympton Victoria RFC Marsh Mills/St. Boniface's Marsh Mills/St. Boniface's
OPM RUFC King George V Playing Fields King George V Playing Fields
Plymouth Argaum RUFC Plymouth Argaum Plymouth Argaum
University of Plymouth RUFC
King George V Playing Fields, Rectory Lane, Horsham (Ladies matches)
HMS Devonport or Brickfields 3G
Old Technicians RUFC Weston Mill Oak Villa Weston Mill Oak Villa
Plymouth Albion RUFC Brickfields Brickfields
Devonport High School Old Boys RFC
Stonehouse Creek Devonport High School For
Boys
University of St. Mark and St. John
Marjons Marjons AGP
Tamar Saracens RFC Parkway Sports and Social Club Optimus Park Parkway Sports and Social
Club Optimus Park
Plymstock Albion Oaks RUFC
Horsham Horsham
Devonport Services RFC Rectory Lane Rectory Lane
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OTHER RUGBY ACTIVITY
4.3.13 There is rugby activity played ‘behind the wire’ by MoD teams. There is also some school rugby,
evidenced by the marking out of grass pitches.
4.3.14 Both the University of Plymouth and Marjons run their own teams (as noted earlier). The times and
venues for this play do not tend to impact on the actual availability of pitches for other community teams
at times of peak demand.
DISPLACED, UNMET AND LATENT DEMAND
4.3.15 There is little evidence of unmet demand within Plymouth from existing clubs. One notable example is
that Plymouth Albion Ladies team are no longer using the non-WR22 compliant 3G AGP training area at
Brickfields for training. Instead they are now using the new full-sized WR22 3G AGP located at Ivybridge
(out of study area).
4.3.16 The Active People analysis does refer to a potentially very significant latent demand to play rugby (see
earlier in the section).
4.4 Capacity scores - situation at individual sites
4.4.1 For rugby, supply and demand is measured by considering;
• the amount of play that a site is able to sustain (based upon pitch quality and the facilities and pitches available);
• how much play takes place;
• whether there is any spare capacity at the site based upon a comparison between the capacity of the site and the actual usage; and
• any other key issues relating to the site which have arisen through provider and user consultation.
4.4.2 Both the supply of pitches and the demand for pitches is measured through the use of match equivalents
to ensure that a comparison is possible. To fully understand activity on a site, consideration is given to
both;
• the adequacy of pitch provision over the course of a week; and
• capacity of a site to meet additional demand at peak time.
4.4.3 For rugby, this analysis is based upon the following principles;
• it is assumed that a team playing home fixtures every other week would generate the equivalent of 0.5 match equivalents per week (one fixture every other week). Match equivalent values are also used to measure the use of pitches for training, as well as the impact of use by educational establishments and casual access. 90 minutes of training is 1 match equivalent.
4.4.4 The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has devised a method for estimating the number of adult games (in red)
that might be played each week in a season without undue wear and tear, based on an assessment of
maintenance and drainage regimes. This is shown in Figure 4.9 below.
Figure 4.9 – RFU capacity assessment guide
Maintenance
Poor (M0) Standard (M1) Good (M2)
Drainage
Natural Inadequate (D0) 0.5 1.5 2
Natural Adequate (D1) 1.5 2 3
Pipe Drained (D2) 1.75 2.5 3.25
Pipe and Slit Drained (D3) 2 3 3.5
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4.4.5 As youth rugby is played on a senior pitch the RFU suggests it should be categorised as equivalent to a
senior match. Youth teams tend to play on senior pitches. Where this occurs the play will have some
impact on the quality of, and therefore use some of the carrying capacity of, the senior pitches. As they
are senior pitches the youth play needs to be quantified as match equivalent sessions of a senior pitch.
If a mini/midi team plays on half a senior pitch every week for half the time of a senior match then it may
be appropriate to record the use as a quarter (0.25) of a senior match equivalent session a week against
the senior pitches on a site. This would enable the demand to be captured against the senior pitches on
a site where the play takes place while reflecting the limited impact on the quality and capacity of the
pitches compared to the senior play.
4.4.6 The above is of course the basis for only a rough assessment of ‘carrying capacity’ of rugby pitch sites,
and it must be informed by other considerations and the views of users and managers, where they are
available. This said, the above method has been applied to the site assessment information and the
estimates of teams’ match play and training needs to produce the following picture of overall site use
relative to the notional capacity. The Figure 4.10 (below) compares the estimated match equivalent
capacity of sites with the estimated level of match equivalent usage.
4.4.7 As with many rugby clubs across the country, rugby clubs in Plymouth designate different pitches and
areas for playing and training. The advantage of this is that ‘match pitches’ are kept in the best possible
condition for weekend use whilst still allowing mid-week training to continue during periods of inclement
weather. The allocation of 'match pitches’ and other pitch types (such as ‘training pitches’, ‘training
areas’, ‘Non-WR22 AGP’ and ‘WR22 AGP) is laid out in figure 4.3 (above).
Figure 4.10 – Site’s ‘match pitch’ capacity relative to match play demand (2018 data)
Site
Senior Match Pitches Mini Pitches Unmet Mini Demand
placed on Senior Match
Pitches (calculated at 25% of a
Senior Match
Equivalent):
Total 'Match-pitch'
Balance Capacity Demand
Supply VS
Demand Capacity Demand
Supply VS
Demand
Brickfields 5.0 0.5 4.5 0 0 0 0 4.5
Horsham 7 5 2 3 6 -3 0.75 1.25
King George V Playing Fields
6 2.5 3.5 0 4 -4 1 2.5
Marjons* 2.5 1.5 3 0 0 0 0 1
Marsh Mills/St.
Boniface's 2.5 0.5 2 0 0 0 0 2
Parkway Sports and Social Club
Optimus Park
1 1.5 -0.5 0 4 -4 1 -1.5
Plymouth Argaum 3 1.5 1.5 0 5 -5 1.25 0.25
Rectory Lane 3 7 -4 0 6 -6 1.5 -5.5
Stonehouse Creek 1.5 2 -0.5 0 2 -2 0.5 -1
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Site
Senior Match Pitches Mini Pitches Unmet Mini Demand
placed on Senior Match
Pitches (calculated at 25% of a
Senior Match
Equivalent):
Total 'Match-pitch'
Balance Capacity Demand
Supply VS
Demand Capacity Demand
Supply VS
Demand
Weston Mill Oak Villa 2 0.5 1.5 0 0 0 0 1.5
HMS Devonport -
Keyham 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 2
Devonport High School
for Boys 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total 46 22.5 13 3 27 -24 6 71
*Discounts the capacity of the WR22 3G AGP as we grass pitch is believed to be the preferred surface for matches.
4.4.8 The following comments can be made:
• The figure shows that, for all but 3 of the sites, the combined use by adults, youths, and mini teams for ‘match pitches’ is met by the match pitch capacity on site.
• The match pitches on 3 of the sites are considered to be overplayed; Rectory Lane, Parkway Sports and Social Club Optimus Park and Stonehouse Creek. These sites represent 3 of the top 4 sites in the city in terms of meeting ‘match’ demand. This is concerning because overplay can lead to a deterioration of pitch quality and with it the quality of user’s experience when playing at the site (which is known to be linked to the likelihood of users continuing to participate in rugby).
• Of the 3 sites showing overplay, two of the sites Parkway Sports and Social Club Optimus Park and Stonehouse Creek, have only poor quality pitches on site. This indicates a need to improve pitch quality to enable these pitches to adequately meet match demand adequately.
• It is understood that the match demand produced by Plympton Victoria RUFC is to be played on King George V Playing Fields. Plympton Victoria’s demand of 0.5 match equivalent is shown at Marsh Mill’s/St Boniface’s site. However, if this demand is transferred to King George V Playing Fields then this site will be modelled to be playing ‘at capacity’. This means there is no capacity for any further match play.
MID-WEEK TRAINING CAPACITY
4.4.9 Across the country rugby clubs are associated with having a strong culture of training mid-week under
floodlights. As floodlighting can be difficult to acquire (due to planning considerations or the cost of
installation), many clubs have a limited space where they can train and may use a mixture of match or
training pitches, non-pitch training areas or AGPs. Figure 4.11 below shows the balance of demand vs.
supply of the different types of training provision used to meet mid-week demand. Where training
demand is taking place on ‘match’ pitches the ‘total match pitch balance’ (see figure 4.11) is
taken as the available floodlit capacity. These sites are highlighted in bold text.
Figure 4.11 – Floodlit Training Supply and Demand in Match Equivalents (2018 data)
Site Training Demand
1.Demand VS.
Floodlit grass
pitches ONLY
2. Demand VS. All floodlit grass
provision (grass pitches and
training areas combined)
3.Demand VS. All floodlit rugby
compliant pitches (either grass
training pitches or WR22 AGP)
4.Deman VS. All floodlit rugby
compliant surfaces (grass pitches & training areas or
WR22 AGP combined)
Brickfields* 1.5 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0
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Site Training Demand
1.Demand VS.
Floodlit grass
pitches ONLY
2. Demand VS. All floodlit grass
provision (grass pitches and
training areas combined)
3.Demand VS. All floodlit rugby
compliant pitches (either grass
training pitches or WR22 AGP)
4.Deman VS. All floodlit rugby
compliant surfaces (grass pitches & training areas or
WR22 AGP combined)
Devonport High
School For Boys*
2.5 No Supply No Supply No Supply No Supply
Horsham 6.5 -3 -3 -3 -3 King George V Playing Fields 3 -1 -1 -1 -1
Marjons 3 No Supply No Supply 9 9 Marsh Mills/St.
Boniface's* 1 No Supply No Supply No Supply No Supply
Parkway Sports and Social Club
Optimus Park
1.5 -2 -2 -2 -2
Plymouth Argaum 2.5 No Supply -2 No Supply -2
Rectory Lane 6.5 -12 -12 -12 -12 Stonehouse
Creek 0 No Supply No Supply No Supply No Supply
Weston Mill Oak Villa 1 No Supply 0 No Supply 0
HMS Devonport -
Keyham 3 No Supply No Supply -1 -1
Supplied Balance 32 -18 -18 -8 -10
All demand VS Analysis Capacity -31 -27.5 -15 -13.5
* Indicates sites where training is taking place on non-WR22 compliant 3G AGPs
4.4.10 The following comments can be made:
• For Brickfields, all training demand save 0.5 is known to be taking place on the floodlit grass
pitch. The women’s team which previously trained on the non-WR22 compliant 3G have now
moved their training sessions to Ivybridge, located outside of the study area.
• As the RFU considers non-WR22 AGPs inappropriate facilities for training to take place,
analysis 4 in the table above can be considered the column that best reflects the supply and
demand balance for training facilities in Plymouth. Under this analysis, only two sites in the
city can be considered not to be using their facilities over capacity (Brickfields and Marjons). If
these two sites were to be excluded from the analysis the city could be said to be operating
21.5 match equivalents over capacity for floodlit provision (when match demand taking place
on floodlit match pitches is applied). Furthermore, under this analysis, demand currently
taking place on Devonport High School for Boys (2.5) and Marsh Mills/St. Boniface's (1.0)
would need to be accommodated elsewhere which brings the total balance for the city to 13.5
match equivalents per week (see the ‘All demand VS Analysis Capacity’ row in figure 4.11).
• It should be noted that the demand attributed to Marsh Mills/St. Boniface's in the table above
is understood to be placed on the WR22 3G AGP located in Ivybridge (outside of the city’s
administrative or policy boundary). Naturally, it would be preferable for this demand to be
accommodated closer to the club’s geographical ‘home’.
• Non-pitch grassed training areas, although preferable to non-WR22 compliant AGPs, are also
not considered to be ideal training facilities for clubs. This view of supply and demand is
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considered in analysis 3. The analysis shows that Plymouth Argaum and Weston Mill Oak
Villa sites are using non-pitch grassed training areas to meet mid-week demand. If all training
demand in the city were to be meet by rugby compliant pitches, the city would be operating 15
match equivalents per week over capacity.
PEAK-TIME CAPACITY
4.4.11 Rugby in Plymouth is played at specific times. The table below improves the studies understanding of the
level of capacity at existing sites by assessing the amount of spare unused match slots at peak-times. A
single pitch is considered to have one match slot per peak-time period (with the exception of senior
pitches being used for mini matches). A single team is considered to utilise 0.5 of a match slot per week
(to account for playing home and away on alternate weeks). A mini team playing on a senior pitch can be
considered to utilise 0.25 of a match slot per week.
4.4.12 It is possible to have a situation where a site has available match slots but not enough theoretical
carrying capacity to meet the demand without being considered to be overplayed. In this situation, only
the number of match slots that the remaining theoretical capacity of the site can be said to meet are
displayed in the table below.
Figure 4.12 – Peak-time balance on all sites with rugby pitches (including WR22 – noted in bold) in match slots (2018 data)
Site Saturday
PM
Sunday AM - Mini Pitches
Sunday AM - Senior Match Pitches (2x mini pitches per senior match
pitch)
Sunday PM
Brickfields 0.5 No Pitch 1 1
Horsham 0.5 At Capacity 0.5 1.25
King George V Playing Fields
At Capacity
No Pitch At Capacity At
Capacity
Marjons* At
Capacity No Pitch 1 0.5
Marsh Mills/St. Boniface'’s
0.5 No Pitch 1 1
Parkway Sports and Social Club Optimus Park
At Capacity
No Pitch At Capacity At
Capacity
Plymouth Argaum At
Capacity No Pitch 0.25
At Capacity
Rectory Lane At
Capacity No Pitch At Capacity
At Capacity
Stonehouse Creek At
Capacity No Pitch At Capacity
At Capacity
Weston Mill Oak Villa 0.5 No Pitch 1 1
Total 2 At Capacity 6.25 6.25
*Discounts WR22 3G AGP supply in notional balance as peak time capacity on the WR22 pitch is thought to be used for other sports.
4.4.13 The following comments can be made:
• The figure shows that there is fairly limited spare capacity across the city on Saturday
afternoons. This means that should clubs wish to increase the number of matches taking
place at this time they will be limited by their capacity to do so by any more than one team.
• There is spare capacity at a number of sites for teams to increase their mini and junior activity
on a Sunday morning. However, Plymouth Argaum only have enough capacity to add one
mini team. Most of the clubs in the city are limited to the addition of just two junior teams
(U13s-U16s) at the peak-time.
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SITE CAPACITY BALANCES
4.4.14 A key output from a PPP assessment is providing a site-by-site view as to whether the pitches in the
study area are being overplayed, and the amount of spare capacity remaining within the pitch stock. This
is challenging in Plymouth as, due to training and matches typically, (although with notable exceptions,)
taking place on areas and spaces dedicated to that use. The figure below provides a summary of the
capacity analysis above.
Figure 4.13 – Club site-by-site capacity balances (2018 data)
Site Access Type
Capacity Balance
Site Balance
Overall Site Status Match
Pitch
Floodlit Training
(using analysis 4)
Brickfields A1 4.5 4.5 MEETS
DEMAND
Horsham A1 1.25 -3 -1.75 OVERPLAYED
King George V Playing Fields A1 -2.50 -2.5 OVERPLAYED
Marjons* A3 13 9 1** MEETS
DEMAND Marsh Mills/St. Boniface's A3/C 2 -1 (No Supply) -1 OVERPLAYED
Parkway Sports and Social Club Optimus Park
A2 -2 -2 OVERPLAYED
Plymouth Argaum A2 0.25 -2 -1.75 OVERPLAYED
Rectory Lane C -12 -12 OVERPLAYED
Stonehouse Creek A2 -1 0 (No Supply) -1 OVERPLAYED
Weston Mill Oak Villa A2 1.5 0 1.5 MEETS
DEMAND
Grand Total -15.25 OVERPLAYED
Secured (A1&A2 sites only) Total -21 OVERPLAYED *It should be noted that this capacity is notional and most of these hours are expected to be utilised through other activity. **Site balance has been calculated using just the grass pitch spare capacity
4.4.15 The figure shows that all but three sites in the city have some element of overplay on their pitches. It
should be noted that the above analysis does not factor the demand being placed Devonport High
School for Boys or HMS Devonport Keyham. If this demand were to be incorporated into the demand for
club sites training facilities, then it is likely the city would be subject to even more overplay than it is
currently.
4.4.16 In terms of addressing the issues of overplay, solutions will need to be specific to each site:
Brickfields: The site is well used by Plymouth Albion RFC is well used by the semi-professional teams based here. The site is considered to be under capacity and has sufficient capacity to meet additional demand should the club’s activity expand.
Horsham: There is insufficient spare capacity on the two non-floodlit grass senior match pitches to meet the shortfall in training supply. Providing floodlighting on these two pitches would help to reduce the level of overplay on the one existing floodlit training pitch as well as helping to spread the issues caused by overplay. However, this solution would still see the whole site be overplayed by 1.75 match equivalents per week. To avoid the site continuing to be overplayed, some training demand may need be met off-site, potentially by using Marjon’s or Ivybridge’s WR22 AGPs.
King George V Playing Fields: The main priority for the site is to add floodlighting to at least one further pitch to spread the demand for training. The pitches at this site are only rated as standard with a carrying capacity of 2 match equivalents per pitch per week. This site needs to increase the number of quality of maintenance and drainage to at least good quality achieve a greater level of carrying
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capacity. The addition of Plympton Victoria to this site is considered to worsen the level of overplay here and therefore enhanced maintenance is required to ensure the pitches can sustain the level of play required.
Marsh Mills/St. Boniface’s: This site is to be disused following the 2019/20 season so does not meet the conditions for investment. However, if it were to remain available, adding floodlighting to its match pitches would enable a spread of training demand.
Parkway Sports and Social Club Optimus Park: The site has a poor quality, partially floodlit pitch. The pitch quality needs to be improved and the pitch made fully floodlit.
Plymouth Argaum: The site has two poor pitches and a poor quality floodlit training area. The site needs the quality of both pitches increased to a minimum of standard quality and at least one of the pitches to be floodlit to help meet training demand.
Rectory Lane: The site is significantly overplayed and is considered to be of high quality. Therefore, some of the demand placed on this site needs to be redistributed to other sites of adequate quality. The obvious option for this would the neighbouring be Stonehouse Creek, but this site is of too poor quality to consider allocating more demand to at this time.
Stonehouse Creek: The site has three pitches of the worst possible quality rating. Improving the site to good quality (with 3 match equivalents of capacity per pitch) would increase its capacity by 7.5 match equivalents per week, leaving 6.5 of spare capacity. Adding floodlighting to at least one of the pitches located at this site would allow Devonport High School Old Boys RFC to train on a rugby compliant surface and have 4.0 spare capacity to accommodate demand from Devonport Services RFC.
SCENARIO TESTING: THE FUTURE
4.4.17 The future requirement for playing pitches will be impacted by several factors, including;
A Changes to the number of people living in the area and / or to the demographic profile of the population; B Changes in participation trends and in how pitch sports are played; C Club specific development plans and aspirations; and D Amendments to the current facility stock either through the provision of new pitches or the loss of current pitches.
4.4.18 These issues are considered in turn in order to build a picture of future demand for playing pitches.
A - POPULATION CHANGE
Team Generation Rates
4.4.19 Team Generation Rates (TGRs) indicate how many people in a specified age group are required to
generate one team. TGRs are derived by dividing the appropriate population age band by the number of
teams playing within that area in that age band. By applying TGRs to population projections, we can
project the theoretical number of teams that would be generated from population growth and gain an
understanding of future demand.
4.4.20 Figure 4.14 overleaf summarises the current TGRs for rugby union in Plymouth and uses them to assess
the potential impact of projected changes to the population profile on demand for rugby.
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Figure 4.14 - TGRs and Potential Change to Number of Rugby Teams in Plymouth: 2018–2034
Age Group
No. of teams in age group
Current population
in age group (2018)
Future population
in age group (2034)
Current TGR
Population Change in Age Group
Potential Change in
Team Numbers
Total Number of Projected
Teams Rugby Union Senior
Men (19-45yrs)
25.5 51,255 54,301 2,010 3,046 1.5 27.0
Rugby Union Senior
Women (19-45yrs)
4.5 47,808 47,781 1,062 -28 0.0 4.5
Rugby Union Youth
Boys (13-18yrs)
17 8,279 9,224 487 945 1.9 18.9
Rugby Union
Youth Girls (13-18yrs)
3 7,879 8,911 2,626 1,032 0.4 3.4
Rugby Union
Mini/Midi Mixed (7-
12yrs)
27 17,913 16,983 663 -929 -1.4 25.6
Source: Population data: Office of National Statistics, 2016-based Subnational Population Projections: 2018-2034 (May 2018) incorporating Plymouth and South Devon Joint Local Plan Housing Trajectory.
• Senior Rugby (Men’s and Women’s) – in the period 2018 - 2034 the number of men aged
between 19 and 45 (the age groups that typically play senior rugby) will increase slightly, and
the number of women will fall slightly. As a result of this, based on the latest population
projections, future participation in senior men’s rugby to 2034 is expected to result in 1.5
additional teams or 0.75 additional match demands for match days.
• Youth Rugby – in the period 2018 - 2034 the number of young people aged between 13 and
18 (the age groups that typically play youth rugby) is projected to increase, creating additional
demand equivalent to 1.9 junior rugby team (rounded to 2.0 match equivalents per
week).
• Mini/Midi Mixed Rugby - between 2018 and 2034 the number of young people aged
between 7 and 12 (the age groups that typically play mini/midi rugby) is projected to decrease
slightly, and therefore a reduction in demand equivalent to 1.4 mini/midi rugby teams (0.7
match equivalents per week).
A planned change in the population
4.4.21 The above projects the change in team numbers arising out of natural change in the population up to
2034. There is also a need to consider any additional teams generated from population change resulting
from planned new development. Strategic housing studies suggest that there may be a need to cater for
a city population of around 303,727 by 2034 on a growing employment base and a subsequent increase
in new residents being attracted to the area. This suggests an additional 39,462 people into the city.
4.4.22 If it is assumed that the age structure of the additional people is similar to the present population, then an
application of the above TGRs would suggest a possible:
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• 4 adult male and 1 adult female rugby teams (2 match equivalents per week);
• 3 male youth rugby teams (1.5 match equivalents per week); and,
• 4 mini-rugby teams (2 match equivalents per week)
4.4.23 If the calculated changes in team numbers arising from natural and planned population change are
added together, it would result in an estimated:
• 4 adult male and female rugby teams (2 match equivalents per week);
• 2.4 male and female junior rugby teams (1.2 match equivalents per week); and,
• 2.6 mini-rugby teams (1.3 match equivalents per week).
4.4.24 The combined effects of both natural and population change will therefore put significant pressure on the
existing rugby pitch stock, for all age groups.
B - CHANGES IN PARTICIPATION TRENDS AND HOW SPORT IS PLAYED
4.4.25 Population growth will have some impact on demand.
4.4.26 Whilst focusing on maintaining its core market of 15v15 senior teams, the RFU is actively promoting its
variants of the game for younger players (touch and tag rugby and ‘7s’) and also looking to develop more
recreational and social rugby during the summer. This is likely to increase the numbers of junior teams
and possibly summer activity for adults, which may cascade down to increase participation during the
winter months.
4.4.27 There are also changes in the type of facilities now being used for rugby. Clubs are aspiring to use AGPs
more for training, to reduce the impact on the grass pitches, thus enabling grass pitches to accommodate
greater intensity of match play. In addition, clubs are now considering the possibilities of using World
Rugby 22 accredited AGPs for competitive fixtures. In this instance, the increased capacity offered by an
AGP would mean that current and future training needs, as well as match play could be accommodated.
4.4.28 The 2019 Rugby World Club is also likely to have had a positive effect on participation locally, although
this is difficult to quantify.
C - DEVELOPMENT PLANS AND ASPIRATIONS
4.4.29 The general club questionnaire survey did not shed much light on the aspirations of local clubs in terms
of the desire to field additional teams, given the lack of response. However, OPM RUFC suggested a
longer-term wish to develop a lady’s team/section and Plymstock Albion Oaks suggested a desire to field
vets and disabled teams. Of the two universities’ clubs neither stated a wish to field additional teams.
However, the RFU believe that there are opportunities for growth at:
• Horsham – Plymstock Albion Oaks – U13/U15/18 Girls
• Stonehouse Creek – General numbers in junior section
• King George V – Junior Age Grades if ancillary facilities were improved.
4.4.30 It is difficult to place a figure on the numbers of teams that are likely to be generated by the realisation of
these aspirations. It is noted that the aspirations are in relation to junior players. Such teams are either
likely to ‘over-play’ on adult pitches, or else on marginal playing field land. If it is assumed that the
aspirations would be realised in an additional 9 junior teams over the three clubs this would mean that,
when combined with the estimates resulting from natural and planned population change, the resultant
increase in teams would be:
• 5.5 adult male and 1 female rugby teams (3.25 match equivalents per week);
• 14.3 male and female junior rugby teams (7.15match equivalents per week); and,
• 2.6 mini-rugby teams (1.3 match equivalents per week).
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D - FORTHCOMING CHANGES TO THE SUPPLY
4.4.31 Central Park: Plymouth City Council has committed to undertaking a programme of improvements to
Central Park. The overall ambition is identified in the master plan for Central Park that was adopted by
the Council in March 2013.
4.4.32 Central Park is the largest park in Plymouth covering 94 hectares (232 acres). It was originally created in
1928 as a park devoted to the improvement of the health of city residents. The Master plan was created
as a response to the need identified in the Central Park Area Action Plan (AAP) for a comprehensive
strategy of improvement to ensure the park achieves its potential as a key public space for the City.
4.4.33 The City Council has worked with a wide range of stakeholders to develop the Master plan for Central
Park and the Sports Plateau has been identified as the priority for sports pitch enhancements.
4.4.34 The current rugby pitch on the Sports Plateau is underused due to the drainage and waterlogging issues.
It is used throughout the summer months for informal ‘touch rugby’. Given the close proximity of Central
Park to the University, students are anticipated to be a key user group for this facility and the City Council
wishes to promote the use of this site for both informal and formal use. When the surface is enhanced,
and drainage issues resolved it can be offered to the local leagues for use as on overspill pitch and for
organised fixtures.
4.4.35 Stonehouse Creek: Stonehouse Creek playing fields are currently used by Devonport High School Old
Boys / Stonehouse Sharks RFC and Devonport Services RFC. In excess of one hundred and thirty
fixtures were scheduled on the site in the last twelve months in addition to training sessions. The pitches
are currently in very poor condition; waterlogged when it rains and hard when it’s dry. If the pitches were
restored, there is the potential for additional use at the site.
4.4.36 Funding was sought from the Sport England Flood Relief Fund, but this bid was unsuccessful. RUFC are
understood to making use of King George V Playing Fields and the WR22 3G AGP at Ivybridge (which is
outside of the city)
4.4.37 Marjons: A full-size long-pile 3G is currently being constructed that will allow for rugby match play and
training to take place on this facility.
4.4.38 Summary of findings and key issues for the Plan to address – see Plan.
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5 Rugby League analysis
5.1 Introduction
5.1.1 The Rugby Football League (RFL) is the sport’s National Governing Body in the UK. It is responsible for
developing and growing Rugby League at all levels. The following section provides greater detail of the
existing strategies that are currently being delivered by the RFL.
5.1.2 Following this, the supply and demand section of this report evaluates the adequacy of facilities for rugby
league and considers:
• The supply of pitches and demand for these
• The adequacy of pitches in the City of Plymouth
• Recommendations moving forward.
5.2 Strategic Context
5.2.1 The most recent strategy formulated by the RFL is laid out in their Strategic Plan 2015-2021 with the
overarching vision to be “A growing sport, available throughout the country, that is recognised as
providing positive experience for all participants and spectators in environments that are welcoming,
inclusive, vibrant, safe and comfortable – encouraging people to return again and again.”
5.2.2 The key objectives of the vision are:
• Sold out major national and international events delivering spectacular entertainment for
supporters and viewers
• Compelling competitions which consistently grow live and TV audiences, commercial
revenues and which provide the opportunity for well-run clubs to flourish and succeed
• Financially viable and sustainable professional clubs creating stable employment
opportunities, showcasing local, national and international talent, and leading the sport’s
development and making a difference – in their own communities
• Welcoming community clubs, putting players first, offering recreational enjoyment for children
and adults alike in a safe and inclusive environment
• England being successful internationally on a consistent basis
• A central organisation that stands out for excellence, innovation, mutual respect, integrity and
inclusion that understands its role in servicing the wider sport
• A sport that lives its values in all its decision and actions.
5.2.3 The vision will be delivered through 6 Corporate Goals that are shown in Figure 5.1.
5.2.4 The RFL’s strategy also outlines their approach to delivering these goals:
• They will drive a customer-focused approach in all we do, understanding the needs of
players, fans and other stakeholders
• They will take a long-term strategic approach through to 2021
• They will implement a Whole Game vision managing the interdependencies of their goals
• They will work in partnership with organisations who have mutual objectives that grow the
sport
• They will continually seek to innovate and drive for excellence
• They will place clubs at the heart of the sport to meet the needs of our participants
• They will prioritise our investment to gain the best return against spend by evaluating
performance against spectator, viewer and participant numbers
• They will build the capacity of our workforce, both volunteer and professional
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• They will focus upon monitoring and evaluation and be accountable for our strategy.
Figure 5.1: Infographic detailing the RFL’s 6 Corporate Goals
5.2.5 Of particular relevance to the PPS is the Community Game section of the Strategic Plan which outlines
proposals for growing the sport at a grass roots level. Specifically, a number of strategic priorities have
been identified:
5.2.6 Develop a new, real time measurement for participation
5.2.7 Use customer insight to deliver playing opportunities at all levels to make it easier for more people to play
the game more often
5.2.8 Identify and support the most appropriate external partners to ensure that the best delivery solutions are
found to generate growth across the different areas of the UK
5.2.9 Develop a new community club membership scheme in which clubs can opt to become RFL members,
receiving specific support to help them grow and improve what they do, in return for agreeing to work
collectively and abide by the governing body rules
5.2.10 Significantly raise the visibility and profile of the community game
5.2.11 Develop clear strategies for increasing participation in Women’s and Girl’s, Wheelchair Rugby League
and within the Armed Forces.
5.2.12 Crucially interventions are focused on two geographic target areas, namely Core Affinity and Emerging
Affinity. Efforts are split between these two groups using an 80/20 divide.
5.2.13 Core Affinity areas incorporate roughly 80% of the rugby league players in England and generally have a
relatively large number of clubs, established talent pathways, and a high number of partnership
secondary schools. These are:
• Bradford and Huddersfield
• Cumbria
• Salford
• Rochdale, Oldham and Halifax
• Hull
• Leeds
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• St Helens
• Wakefield
• Warrington
• Widnes
• Wigan and Leigh
5.2.14 Emerging Affinity areas incorporate roughly 20% of the rugby league players in England and generally
have a growing tradition within the sport, audience development work is underway and those where 20%
of the Rugby League World Cup 2021 fixtures will be held. These are:
• Bolton and Bury
• City of Manchester
• Lancashire
• North East
• North Yorkshire
• South Yorkshire
• Liverpool
• Coventry, Oxford and Gloucester Triangle
• London
5.3 Supply
5.3.1 There are currently no pitches being used for rugby league within the City of Plymouth. The only club in
the wider area are the Saltash Essayons who previously played within Plymouth (under the name
Plymouth Titans). They hire facilities from Saltash Rugby Football Club on a rolling yearly lease.
5.4 Demand
5.4.1 The government’s Active Lives survey indicates that 0.8% of the population played rugby league within
the past year, which would suggest a potential demand of 1,880 people in Plymouth. However, as stated
in the NGB’s strategy demand for this sport is localized to certain geographies and the South West does
not have a strong rugby league tradition.
5.4.2 Table 5.1 contains a summary of a consultation with the Saltash Essayons which covers some reasons
for moving out of Plymouth and whether there are any plans to move back.
Table 5.1: Club consultation summary
Club Name Consultation
Saltash Essayons
They are now located outside of Plymouth and the move came about due to a variety of reasons: partly where the players are based, partly due to the facilities. They had some issues with their previous council owned ground in Plymouth. For example, the posts were taken down mid-season without notice and there were times when they had to play without sufficient line markings. Saltash is also more convenient for many of the playing squad to get to. They are currently hiring out a facility on a yearly basis, so have said they do look at options in Plymouth every year. However, they are unlikely to return given the rebranding of the club unless they found something exceptional.
5.4.3 As there was a team in Plymouth previously there is a possibility of some unmet demand or those
wishing to play are now having to travel outside of the city to do so. Engaging with the Saltash Essayons
to determine whether this demand is truly being exported and identifying potential facilities within
Plymouth is recommended. However, until there is a formal request for a dedicated pitch at which to
base a Rugby League club it must be considered that demand for Rugby League in Plymouth is being
met by Plymouth Essayons. This will be addressed as an action in the Strategy and Action plan section
of the report.
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6 Hockey analysis
6.1 Introduction
6.1.1 This section assesses the adequacy of pitches for hockey in the Plymouth administrative area by
presenting the following:
• An overview of the supply and demand for hockey
• A picture of the adequacy of current provision across Plymouth
• An understanding of activity at individual sites in Plymouth
• The future picture of provision for hockey across Plymouth
• The key issues for the Plan to address
6.1.2 It should be noted that this document represents a ‘marked-up’ version of the 2014 PPP Needs
Assessment. This means that where new data is available or the situation is known to have changed the
figures and commentary relating to this has been changed also. Where the information is thought to have
remained consistent with the 2014 study, or no new information is available, this has been carried
forward into this study.
6.1.3 Before continuing with the core analysis, figure 6.1 below provides a reference list for the abbreviations
of club names used throughout this document.
Figure 6.1 – Club Names and abbreviations
Club Abbreviation
Plymouth Marjon Hockey Club PMHC
Plympton Grammar School Old Boys Men’s Hockey Club PGSOB
Old Plymothians & Mannamedian Men’s Hockey Club OPM
Plym Valley Ladies Hockey Club PVHC
Mannamead Ladies Hockey Club MLHC
Devonport Services Hockey Club DSHC
University of Plymouth Hockey Club Plymouth Uni
Plymouth Hockey Club PHC
Devonport Dragons Junior Hockey Club DDJHC
Lipson Lions Junior Hockey Club LLJHC
Ivybridge Junior Hockey Club IJHC
6.2 Overview of pitch supply
6.2.1 Summary for the England Hockey Artificial Grass Playing Surface Policy (June 2016):
6.2.2 Aim: To provide clear guidance of what type of Artificial Grass Pitch surface is acceptable for the
different levels of hockey.
6.2.3 This policy replaces the England Hockey ‘3G Policy’ that existed from 2009 to 2016.
6.2.4 England Hockey have recognised that in some circumstances this change will require a period of
transition for an organisation to comply with the new expectations. Largely this will apply to the few clubs
and university teams that use 3G pitches. England Hockey will provide support on a case by case basis2.
6.2.5 The following figure outlines the surface type and the recommended playing level for the surface;
2 Any questions should regarding this issues should be directed to [email protected]
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Figure 6.2 – England Hockey’s categories of surface type
Category Surface Playing Level Playing Level
England Hockey Category 1
Water surface approved within the FIH Global/National Parameters
Essential International Hockey- Training and matches.
Desirable Domestic National Premier competition Higher levels of EH Player Pathway Performance Centres and upwards
England Hockey Category 2
Sand dressed surfaces within the FIH National Parameter
Essential Domestic National Premier competition Higher levels of player pathway: Academy Centres and Upwards
Desirable All adult and junior League Hockey Intermediate or advanced School Hockey EH competitions for clubs and schools (excluding domestic national league)
England Hockey Category 3
Sand based surfaces within the FIH National Parameter
Essential All adult and junior club training and league Hockey EH competitions for clubs and schools** Intermediate or advanced schools hockey
Desirable
England Hockey Category 4
All long pile (3G) surfaces Essential None
Desirable Lower level hockey (Introductory level) when no category 1-3 surface is available. *
* We would recommend an appropriate ball to meet the standards of the player and the surface ** EH school competition provision is likely to change in September 2017 when this guidance may be updated. It is likely that some lower levels of competitive school hockey provision within the EH competition structure will be allowed on 3G AGPs
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6.2.6 Based upon the above criteria, there are 5 full-sized pitches with approved surfaces for hockey in
Plymouth.
Figure 6.3 – Hockey AGP provision in Plymouth (2014 data updated through consultation)
Site Name Facility
Sub Type Size (m)
Flo
od
lit?
Access Type
Ownership Type/
Management type
Year Built/ Refurb (R)
Brickfields Sports Centre and Recreation Ground
Sand Filled 100 x 63
Yes Pay and Play
Local Authority/ Everyone
Active
1970/ 2011 R
Bull Point Sand Filled 96 x 58 Yes Private Use MoD/Closed
access 2014 R
Lipson College Sand
Dressed 100 x 60 Yes Pay and Play
Education (Academy)
2004 / 2015 R
UCP Marjon Sport (Ansley)
Sand Dressed
100 X 60 Yes Pay and Play Education (private)
2017
UCP Marjon Sport (McCormick)
Sand Dressed
100 X 60 Yes Pay and Play Education (private)
2013
6.2.7 Of these pitches, Bull Point has some restricted community use (Plymouth HC & Mannamead HC
training only) which is not secure. Until February 2014 a pitch was in use at Stonehouse Barracks (MoD)
but this is no longer available and is now a car park for military vehicles. This AGP is cited in the Joint
Plymouth Local Plan to be reinstated. If it is not possible to reinstate the pitch here, mitigation to replace
the loss of a sand AGP should be stated as a requirement of the Local Plan. The Brickfields playing
pitch is considered to be of poor quality. All other pitches are considered to be good. Therefore, the 5
AGPs in Plymouth currently available and capable of supporting match play in hockey represents a
decline in provision from the relatively recent past, when there were seven pitches available within the
city.
6.2.8 Most pitches in the city are considered to have 33 hours of peak-time availability per week (15 midweek
evening hours / 9 hours on Saturdays / 9 hours on Sundays). However, Bull Point (owned by the MoD) is
understood to have just 11.5 hours of availability according to reports from the clubs using the site. This
is comprised of just 4 hours of midweek availability, 4.5 hours on a Saturday and 3 hours on a Sunday.
6.2.9 AGPs, due to their relative scarcity compared with grass pitches, tend to have a wider user catchment.
There are six other hockey appropriate, floodlit AGPs within a 30 minute drivetime of Plymouth (however,
in practice those in Tavistock, Totnes and Liskeard are really too far to travel).
Figure 6.4 – Sand AGPs in within a commutable distance of Plymouth city centre (2014 data updated
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through consultation)
Site Name Access & Ownership
/ Management
Travel time from Plymouth
City Centre
Type of AGP
Size Comments
Saltash Community School,
Sports Club/Community Association – Education/in house
12 mins Sand filled
101 x 63 (m)
No hockey club playing at this venue.
HMS Raleigh (MOD), Torpoint
Sports Club/Community Association – MoD
15 mins Sand filled
160 x 100 No hockey club use.
RN Bickleigh Barracks (MOD)
Sports Club/Community Association – MoD
16 mins Sand filled
100 x 60
Not largely available for community use (although evidence from football clubs suggests there may be some allowed).
Mount Kelly College, Tavistock
Sports Club/Community Association – Independent School/in house
30 mins – too far for Plymouth team/ sports development etc
Sand dressed
100 x 60 Home of Tavistock HC.
KEVICS, Totnes
Sports Club/Community Association – Education/in house
30 mins – as above
Sand dressed
100 x 60 Home to Dart HC and some use by Ashmoor HC.
Lux Park, Liskeard
Pay and Play – Local Authority/Trust
30 mins – as above
Sand dressed
102 x 64
Caradon HC play and train here;– see travel comments.
Kingsbridge School and Community College
Sports Club/Community Association – Education/in house
30 mins – as above
Sand dressed
100 x 60
Poor quality. Home to Kingsbridge & Salcombe HC and Dartmouth HC.
6.2.10 In addition to the facilities detailed above there is also a project to install a new hockey compliant pitch in
the Sherford area. This would be located outside of the City of Plymouth. The plans are for this pitch to
serve Ivybridge Junior Hockey Club.
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6.3 Overview of Demand
ACTIVE LIVES DATA (SPORT ENGLAND)
6.3.1 The Sport England Active Lives Survey can be used in helping to evaluate the proportion of the adult
population that are likely to participate in hockey. More information on the Sport England Active Lives
Tool can be found here. The key messages for hockey are:
• 0.4% of adult residents participated in some form of Hockey at least twice within the last 28
days, representing around 865 people.
• The Sport England Local Profile resources (available here) indicate there are currently 55.7%
of adult residents that would like to do more sport
CURRENT PARTICIPATION
6.3.2 There is a large amount of hockey played in Plymouth and the sport is currently thriving with 11 hockey
clubs in the city. Since 2014, hockey participation in Plymouth has increased by 28%, with junior
participation (U16) growing by 36% and seniors by 22%.
6.3.3 England Hockey statistics identify 1299 players, which equates to around 0.4% of Plymouth’s total
population. There are 18 men’s,17 ladies’ and 41 junior teams, which equates to 745 senior members
(16 years +) and 554 junior players. The recorded number of adult players is therefore about 60 higher
than the Active Lives figure. There is also a men’s and a ladies’ BUCS only team playing for UCP Marjon
(in addition to the Plymouth Marjon Hockey Club which is based there).
Figure 6.5 - Number of hockey teams in Plymouth (2018 data provided by England Hockey)
Club Abbreviation Mens teams
Ladies teams
Junior Teams
Other hockey offer
Plymouth Marjon Hockey Club
PMHC 5 5 18
Back to Hockey, Summer League, Pay & Play, Junior Academies,
Primary Festivals, Holiday Coaching Camps and Vets
Plympton Grammar School Old Boys Men’s Hockey
Club PGSOB 4 - - None due to lack of pitch time
Old Plymothians & Mannamedian Men’s
Hockey Club OPM 3 2 -
Summer League, Sunday League, limited Back to Hockey
Plym Valley Ladies Hockey Club
PVHC 0 3 - Back to Hockey, Summer League
and Sunday League
Mannamead Ladies Hockey Club
MLHC 0 2 - Sunday League
Devonport Services Hockey Club
DSHC 1 1 - -
University of Plymouth Hockey Club
Plymouth Uni 4 4 - Ladies Sunday League, Intra
mural festival (one off event) & Free Taster sessions for students
Plymouth Hockey Club PHC - - 7 -
Devonport Dragons Junior Hockey Club
DDJHC - - 7 -
Lipson Lions Junior Hockey Club
LLJHC - - 4 -
Ivybridge Junior Hockey Club
IJHC - - 5 Imported demand from South
Hams
Total 17 17 41
6.3.4 Consultations with clubs state that there are different trends amongst the clubs – 4 clubs record growing
membership; 5 have declining numbers and 3 has stayed about the same. It should also be noted that
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even if the number of member’s changes, the number of teams can stay the same. The following table
records this, for the period following 2014 to 2018.
Figure 6.6 - Hockey teams and trends in club membership (2018 data provided by England Hockey)
Club Current Teams Trends over last 3 years
Plymouth Marjon 5 Ladies and 5 Men’s; 18 junior teams
Since 2014 – grown by 29%, increased one ladies team. 215 senior members; 237 U16 members.
Plympton Grammar School Old Boys Men’s HC (PGSOB’s)
4 Men’s Since 2014 – declined by 24%. 70 senior members; 15 U16 members. Numbers of senior teams has stayed the same, lost one junior team.
Old Plymothians & Mannamedian Men’s HC (OPM’s)
3 Men’s and 2 Ladies
Since 2014 – grown by 83%. 88 senior members; 7 junior. Number of teams has increased due to starting a ladies section.
Plym Valley Ladies Hockey Club 3 Ladies; no junior Since 2014 – grown by 16%. 53 senior members; 5 U16 members. Number of teams has stayed the same.
Mannamead Ladies Hockey Club
2 Ladies teams; no junior
Since 2014 – declined by 14%. 29 senior members; 14 U16 members. Lost one ladies team.
Devonport Services Men’s Hockey Club (formerly United Services HC)
1 men’s team and 1 ladies team; no junior
Since 2014 – grown by 134%. 52 senior members; 2 U16 members. Increase one ladies team.
University of Plymouth Hockey Club
4 Ladies teams and 4 Men’s; no junior
Since 2014 – grown by 3%. 201 senior members. Numbers of teams stayed the same.
Plymouth Hockey Club 8 junior teams Since 2014 – declining by 3%. 0 senior members; 100 U16 members. Number of teams stayed the same.
Devonport Dragons Junior Hockey Club
8 junior teams – feeder club to PGSOBs and Mannamead
Since 2014 – grown by 18%, juniors only. 84 members. Number of teams has stayed the same.
Lipson Lions Junior Hockey Club
6 junior teams. Feeder club to OPMs and Plym Valley
Since 2014 – declining by 25%, juniors only. 40 members. Number of teams has stayed the same.
Ivybridge Hockey Club 5 Junior teams Displaced from Ivybridge into Plymouth. Juniors only with 49 members.
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PATTERN OF PLAY AND CAPACITY
6.3.5 There are 11 hockey clubs (76 teams) having to accommodate training and matches on just 5
pitches (no teams travel outside Plymouth to play or train). Bullpoint has been discounted due to
restricted and unsecure access because it is an MoD site.
6.3.6 The loss of the Stonehouse pitch meant that Mannamead Ladies and PGSOB were without a
pitch. The table below does not reflect the difficulties some clubs have had in finding a new
venue for this season or the resultant disruption for the clubs. The result is that two clubs (OPM
and Mannamead Ladies) play and train on different pitches; a situation which is far from ideal.
There are 4 junior only clubs (Plymouth Hockey, Lipson Lions, Ivybridge HC and Devonport
Dragons) which all play in the Friday night junior league at UCP Marjon and Bullpoint).
Figure 6.7 - Location of Hockey Matches and Training (2018 data provided by England Hockey)
Abbreviation Total Hours of Demand Home Ground 1 Home Ground 2
PMHC 35 Marjon Ansley Marjons McCormick
PGSOB 5 Marjon Ansley Marjons McCormick
OPM 10 Marjon McCormick Lipson College
PVHC 4.5 Lipson College -
MLHC 4.5 Brickfields Bull Point
DSHC 5 Bull Point -
Plymouth Uni 13 Lipson College Brickfields & Marjon
PHC 3 Bull Point -
DDJHC 3 Brickfields -
LLJHC 5 Lipson College -
IJHC 2 Marjon McCormick -
Total 90
6.3.7 Clubs were asked if they had ever experienced any problems in obtaining pitches for either
matches or training and whether all their needs could be accommodated. Apart from this,
comments in Figure 7.8 reflect the inevitable problems when trying to find slots in AGPs that are
full.
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Figure 6.8 - Comments by clubs on difficulties in obtaining pitches for matches and/or training (2014 data)
MLHC We have lost the MoD pitch at Stonehouse in the last few weeks of the season.
DDJHC Every so often we've had a football competition that has taken one weekend (Brickfields).
OPM Played matches at H.M.S. Raleigh Torpoint Cornwall in the late 1990's due to the lack of pitches in the city.
PGSOB HC
See previous comments on our home pitch being turned into a car park (Stonehouse) and limited hockey friendly AGP pitches.
PVLHC
We sometimes have a problem if league fixtures mean both our 1XI and 2XI are at home on the same day, we also have a problem on occasions with home cup fixtures which we have to fit in alongside league fixtures as the pitch is always fully booked (Lipson). We cannot enter our 3rd team into the official ladies WCWHL as we cannot obtain a time slot for the pitch on a Saturday as they are all taken up. Ourselves and 3 other hockey clubs, with a combined total of 14 teams, use this pitch. One of the men's clubs have had to send their 3rd team to another pitch for home games due to lack of slots available on a Saturday (this situation may have changed since the questionnaire response, but illustrates the pressure on the pitches).
PMHC Because we share the pitch with Plymouth College, who have priority, this coming season it will be difficult to find enough slots available on a Saturday to fit all the games in (UCP Marjon).
Plymouth Uni
Require pitches on Wednesday afternoons for BUCS fixtures; great difficulties in getting AGPs on Wednesday afternoons due to majority of pitches being on school sites. Therefore, teams have to travel outside city limits or play away fixtures.
6.3.8 Other comments made by Plymouth hockey clubs and England Hockey concerning the general
availability of suitable AGPs are as follows:
• Some pitches have recently been laid with 3G surfaces and are not full size, i.e.
Plymstock School.
• MOD restrictions on certain pitches in the city.
• The amount of pitches of the right surface is currently an issue. Some teams are
having to play at unsociable times on a Saturday (e.g. 9am start times for matches
and post 5pm finishes).
• More and more 3G pitches are being installed, which hockey cannot be played on.
Increasing team numbers in Plymouth means league games on Saturdays are played
a few pitches between 9am and 5pm start times with limited times for change overs
or warm-ups.
• AGP pitches are very limited in the Plymouth area, with no new ones being built and
with 2 closing in 2013. This has put more strain on the few that are left. Some pitches
have been changed to an artificial turf surface which was not suitable for hockey.
Because of the lack of pitches available there is massive demand for those that are
suitable and without proper maintenance these will degrade very quickly, due to the
increased use by all sports not just hockey. We desperately need more pitches if we
are increase participation in hockey in accordance with the Olympic legacy.
• Although I am happy with the accessibility to our own facilities (Bull Point), we are
considered a 'forces side' so have sole use of the pitch, civilian teams cannot use it
due to security implications. One of the other MoD owned pitches has closed
meaning the 2 civilian clubs that were using it have had to find other pitches to use,
creating a shortage of pitches for hockey for the amount of teams looking to use
them.
PATTERN OF USE OF EXISTING SAND AGPS IN PLYMOUTH
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6.3.9 The expected programming for the coming season for the 5 existing sand AGPs capable of
accommodating match play for hockey is set out in more detail below under the analysis of the
capacity of all AGPs. However, a summary of the situation relating specifically to hockey is set
out below.
Figure 6.9 – Peak-time demand per site (2018 data provided by England Hockey)
Site Name
Peak-time Demand in hours
Midweek Saturday Sunday Total
Unspecified Demand (from unresponsive
clubs)
Total Demand
Lipson 7.5 9 3.5 20 5 25
Marjons Ansley 12.5 9 6.5 28 0 28
Marjons McCormick 9.5 5 6.5 21 2 23
Brickfields 2 4.5 3 9.5 3 12.5
Bull Point 4 4.5 3 11.5 0 11.5
Total 35.5 32 22.5 90 10 100
OTHER USES OF THE PITCHES
6.3.10 Educational use of AGPs takes place outside of peak hours (evenings and weekends) and
therefore there is no impact upon the availability of the facilities for community hockey (as the
artificial surface means that AGPs are not impacted upon by levels of use in the same way that
grass pitches are).
6.3.11 Exceptions to this within Plymouth are the University of Plymouth and Marjon hockey teams, who
play fixtures on Wednesday afternoons. UCP Marjon fixtures can be accommodated on their
home pitch, but as recorded in the figure 6.7 above, there can be difficulties in finding locations
for matches for University of Plymouth BUCS teams on Wednesday afternoons (Lipson is not
available as it is a school pitch). There is also a lack of availability for the University of Plymouth
to run intra-mural hockey on a weekly basis. As a result of this, it is limited to a one-off festival.
Figure 6.10 – Peak-time capacity balance by site (for hockey use only) (Based on 2018 data
provided by England Hockey)
Site Name Peak-time Spare Capacity in hours Total Including
Unspecified Demand Midweek Saturday Sunday Total
Lipson 7.5 0.0 5.5 13.0 8.0
Marjons Ansley 2.5 0.0 2.5 5.0 5.0
Marjons McCormick 5.5 4.0 2.5 12.0 10.0
Brickfields 13.0 4.5 6.0 23.5 20.5
Bull Point 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Total 28.5 8.5 16.5 53.5 43.5
6.3.12 Figure 6.10 above shows that, with the exception of Bull Point, hockey facilities are operating
with some spare peak-time capacity when only hockey is considered as part of its use. On
Saturdays, the figure shows that only 2 facilities have any spare capacity, meaning there is
limited capacity to increase participation in adult match play. It should also be noted that many
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clubs have reported having limited capacity at peak times on their preferred pitch. This means
that much of the spare capacity recorded here is being used for other activities, such as football
(see the dedicated AGP analysis chapter of this report for more information on the impact of
football use on sand-based AGPs).
6.3.13 During consultation, England Hockey have pointed out that the reason for the amount of spare
peak-time capacity at Brickfields is due to the perception that this pitch is of poor quality.
However, there is concern that this view is outdated as the pitch was subject to a £20,000 ‘deep
clean’ within the last 12months. As a result, the quality of the facility here is greatly improved but
the perception of this amongst local clubs, and consequentially their use of the pitch, has not
changed.
6.3.14 Following the loss of community access to the MOD owned pitch at Stonehouse Barracks, it is
important to note the impact of the loss of access to the other MOD owned pitch in the city, Bull
Point.
Figure 6.11 – Peak-time capacity balance by site (for hockey use only)- With Bull Point removed
from the supply (based on 2018 data provided by England Hockey)
Site Name Peak-time Spare Capacity in hours Total Including
Unspecified Demand Midweek Saturday Sunday Total
Current Total Spare Capacity in Hours Across all pitches in
Plymouth (including Bull Point)) 28.5 8.5 16.5 53.5 43.5
Current demand met by Bull Point in hours
4 4.5 3 11.5 11.5
Total 24.5 4 13.5 42.5 32
6.3.15 The figure above shows that if Bull Point were to become unavailable for use there would remain
sufficient capacity for current levels of hockey demand in Plymouth. However, it must be noted
that the above figure does not account for non-hockey demand taking place on hockey-
appropriate AGPs. When the consultation notes in Figure 6.8, which testify to the difficulty for
clubs to extend the number of hours they use their ‘home’ pitches, are considered it must be
concluded that the removal of Bull Point from community use would have a significant impact on
the capacity of the remaining supply to adequately meet demand. This is especially evident on
Saturdays where there would be just 4 hours remaining supply per week. To place this in
context, 4 hours of supply represents spare capacity for just 2 more matches across the entire
city.
6.4 Scenario testing
FUTURE PICTURE OF PROVISION
6.4.1 To accurately respond to the requirements for AGPs for hockey across Plymouth, it is necessary
to consider the future requirement for these facilities and the potential future demand for hockey.
This will be impacted upon by several things, including;
A Changes to the number of people living in the area and / or to the demographic
profile of the population;
B Changes in participation trends and in how pitch sports are played;
C Amendments to the current facility stock either through the provision of new
pitches or the loss of current pitches.
6.4.2 These issues are considered in turn to build a picture of future demand for playing pitches.
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A- POPULATION CHANGE
6.4.3 The numbers of people in the overall ‘active participation’ age group (5-69) in Plymouth is
projected to increase slightly in the period up to 2021 by 5,800 people (2.7%). The only age
group within the ‘active participation’ group that is projected to see a significant increase in
numbers in this period is the 5-9 group , which is likely to increase by 3,400 people or 26%
compared to existing numbers. The only age group to see a decrease in numbers is the ‘youth /
junior’ age group, which is predicted to fall by 500 people (or -1.6%) in the period to 2021. All
other ‘active participation’ age groups i.e. adult and veteran pitch sports are likely to see a small
increase over the same period.
PLANNED CHANGE IN THE POPULATION
6.4.4 The above projects the change in team numbers arising out of natural change in the population
up to 2034. There is also a need to consider any additional teams generated from population
change resulting from planned new development. Strategic housing studies suggest that there
may be a need to cater for a city population of around 303,727 by 2034, based on a growing
employment base and a subsequent increase in new residents being attracted into the area. This
suggests an additional 39,462 beyond those catered for in the above calculations.
6.4.5 If it is assumed that the age structure of this additional 39,462 people is similar to the present
population, then an application of the above TGRs would suggest a possible:
• 6.0 adult teams; 3.0 male and 3.0 female teams (3.0 match equivalents per week);
and,
• 6.0 mixed junior teams (3.0 match equivalents).
6.4.6 This projected change could put even greater, and unsustainable, pressure on the existing
hockey pitch stock. However, it should be noted that England Hockey do not consider TGRs to
be an adequate reflection of how hockey demand is currently or is projected to be. The England
Hockey method of modelling demand is shown below in section B.
LATENT DEMAND
6.4.7 Active People and Market Segmentation (earlier in this section) have indicated that there may be
a small amount of latent demand in Plymouth (384 people) who would like to play (or play more)
hockey but do not currently do so.
6.4.8 Therefore there may be opportunities to increase participation in Plymouth through sports
development initiatives targeting those in the market segments that have expressed an interest
in participating (e.g. through the ‘Back to Hockey’ and ‘Walking Hockey’ schemes, Flyerz Hockey
and Pay & Play sites). It is understood that Plymouth Marjon are looking into running Flyerz
Hockey sessions (disability sessions in the near future).
B- CHANGES IN PARTICIPATION TRENDS AND HOW SPORT IS PLAYED
6.4.9 New initiatives like ‘Back to Hockey’, ‘Walking Hockey’ or ‘Rush Hockey’ sessions targeted at
certain age groups may engage new participants and increase participation in the sport.
Plymouth Marjon HC are currently running some very successful Back to Hockey sessions with
an average of 16 participants per week. Rush hockey is being offered to the students at the
University of Plymouth and there is a possibility that Rush hockey could be offered to the local
community outside of term times. Also, Plymouth Argyle Premier League 4 Sport is investigating
the options of running Rush Hockey sessions for U16s in local communities.
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6.4.10 Since 2011, England Hockey has seen a 41% growth in the total number of club players. This is
especially noted at U16 club level where there has been an 85% increase in members. As part
of the England Hockey Strategy 'A Nation where Hockey matters' 2017 - 2021, a long-term
aspiration is to double the number of people playing hockey in clubs by 2028. In Plymouth
(where according to 2016/17 data there are currently 1,338 register hockey members playing the
sport) if this aspiration came to fruition this would equate to a possible future membership of
2,676 players.
6.4.11 It is important to note, that the projected increase above is based on participation data and not
Team Generation Rates. The increase will include league teams as well as informal hockey,
including: Back to, Pay & Play, Walking Hockey etc.
6.4.12 Figure 6.9 shows that the 1,336 current hockey membership produces 100 hours of hockey
demand per week. Should the membership double by 2028 then if can be fairly expected that if
the same ratio of membership to demand for pitch time in hours were to be applied, then the
number of hours required to be available for hockey use in Plymouth would need to be 200.
Figure 6.12 below shows the impact such a growth in hockey demand would have if the current
levels of supply were to remain unaltered by 2028.
Figure 6.12 – Impact of demand increases a projected by 2028 (based on 2018 data provided by
England Hockey)
Peak-time hours
Midweek Saturday Sunday Total
Distribution Current of Demand 39% 36% 25% 100%
Current demand in hours (with unspecified demand included) 39 36 25 100
Projected total demand (according to current demand distribution) 78 72 50 200
Current Total Peak-time Supply 64 40.5 39 143.5
Projected balance given current supply -14 -31.5 -11 -56.5
Projected balance with Bull Point removed from supply -18 -36 -14 -68
6.4.13 The figure above shows that if demand for hockey doubles (alongside the targeted membership
rates) then Plymouth will have a severe deficit of hockey pitch supply. It should be noted that the
above table is calculated with the assumption that all available peak-hours will be prioritised to
and used for hockey (which is not currently the case).
6.4.14 The typical number of peak-time hours supplied by a floodlit AGP pitch is estimated to be 33
hours. These 33 hours are broken down in the following ways:
• 15 hours during the mid-week period
• 9 hours on a Saturday
• 9 hours on a Sunday
6.4.15 The peak-period with the greatest deficit of supply is Saturday afternoons. Should supply remain
static then there is projected to be a deficit of 31.5 hours supply during this time. If Bull Point
were to become unavailable this deficit would increase to 36 hours (see Figure 6.12). Given an
expected supply of 9 hours per AGP on a Saturday, this would equate to a need for 3.5 AGPs to
be available on a Saturday to meet projected demand. If Bull Point is removed from the supply
this increases to 4.0 AGPs.
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6.4.16 The above analysis indicates that if the targeted increase in demand (of 100%) by 2028 is
achieved, then Plymouth will require a minimum of 4 additional AGP pitches to be added to the
city by 2028 and every hour of available supply on hockey appropriate AGPs would need to be
made available exclusively for hockey. Should Bull Point become unavailable, 4 AGPs would be
expected to meet demand but there would be no spare capacity for any further growth in hockey
under this scenario.
C- FORTHCOMING CHANGES TO SUPPLY
6.4.17 There is a new pitch proposed as part of the master planning for the Sherford housing
development. If this pitch comes to fruition it is expected that Ivybridge Hockey Club will utilise
this pitch as their home ground along with new residents from the Sherford community.
6.4.18 It should also be noted that UCP Marjon are looking to build a clubhouse and changing room
facility near to their double pitch site, as current changing is long way off in leisure centre.
Summary of findings and key issues for the Plan to address – see Plan
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7 Glossary of terms
7.1.1 In order to fully understand the PPS, 4global have created a glossary detailing key terms and phrases
mentioned throughout. The glossary is detailed below, along with appropriate definitions;
ACRONYMS
• 3G AGP: Third Generation Artificial Grass Pitch
• 4g: 4global Consulting
• AGP: Artificial Grass Pitch(es)
• APS: Active People Survey(s)
• CC: Cricket Club
• CIL: Community Infrastructure Levy
• CSP: County Sports Partnership
• ECB: England and Wales Cricket Board
• EH: England Hockey
• FA: Football Association
• FC: Football Club
• FE: Further Education
• GIS: Geographical Information Systems
• HC: Hockey Club
• HE: Higher Education
• IOG: Institute of Groundsmanship
• JFC: Junior Football Club
• LDF: Local Development Framework
• LMS: Last Man Stands
• LSOA: Lower Layer Super Output Area
• MES: Match equivalent sessions
• NPPF: National Planning Policy Framework
• PPS: Playing Pitch Strategy
• PQS: Performance Quality Standard
• RFU: Rugby Football Union
• RUFC: Rugby Union Football Club
• S106: Section 106 Agreement
• U: Under.
PHRASES
7.1.2 National Governing Body of Sport (NGB) - typically these are independent, self-appointed
organisations that govern their sports through the common consent of their sport. Sport England has a
recognition process for NGBs that aims to identify a single lead NGB structure which governs a sport at
UK, GB or home country level.
7.1.3 Unsecured Community Use - these are pitches that are currently used or available for community-use,
however there is no secure management/usage agreement in place.
7.1.4 Secured Community Use - these pitches will be managed as either; a ‘play & play’ site by the local
authority or leisure trust, by a specific sports club or Parish Council, or by an education establishment
with secure community-use agreements in place.
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7.1.5 Team Generation Rate – Provides an indication of how many people it may take to generate a team. A
TGR can be calculated by dividing the current population within an age group for a sport by the number
of teams in the area within that age group. This is then used to calculate the number of teams that will be
required in the future, to allow for future population growth or reduction.
7.1.6 Displaced demand generally relates to play by teams or other users of playing pitches from within the
Study Area (i.e. from residents of the Study Area) which takes place outside of the area. This may be
due to issues with the provision of pitches and ancillary facilities in the Study Area, just reflective of how
the sports are played (e.g. at a central venue for the wider area) or due to the most convenient site for
the respective users just falling outside of the local authority/Study Area.
7.1.7 Unmet demand is demand that is known to exist but unable to be accommodated on current supply of
pitches. This could be in the form of a team with access to a pitch for matches but nowhere to train or
vice versa. This could also be due to the poor quality and therefore limited capacity of pitches in the area
and/or a lack of provision and ancillary facilities which meet a certain standard of play/league
requirement. League secretaries may be aware of some unmet demand as they may have declined
applications from teams wishing to enter their competitions due to a lack of pitch provision which in turn
is hindering the growth of the league.
7.1.8 Latent demand is demand that evidence suggests may be generated from the current population should
they have access to more or better provision. This could include feedback from a sports club who may
feel that they could set up and run an additional team if they had access to better provision.
7.1.9 Future demand is an informed estimate made of the likely future demand for pitches in the Study Area.
This is generally based on the most appropriate current and future population projections for the relevant
age and gender groupings for each sport. Key trends, local objectives and targets and consultation also
inform this figure.
7.1.10 Casual use or other use could take place on natural grass pitches or AGPs and include:
• Regular play from non-sports club sources (e.g. companies, schools, fitness classes)
• Infrequent informal/friendly matches
• Informal training sessions
• More casual forms of a particular sport organised by sports clubs or other parties
• Significant public use and informal play, particularly where pitches are located in
parks/recreation grounds.
7.1.11 Carrying capacity is the amount of play a site can regularly accommodate (in the relevant comparable
unit) for community use without adversely affecting its quality and use. This is typically outlined by the
NGB.
7.1.12 Overplay is when a pitch is used over the amount that the carrying capacity will allow, (i.e. more than the
site can accommodate). Pitches have a limit of how much play they can accommodate over a certain
period of time before their quality, and in turn their use, is adversely affected.
7.1.13 Spare capacity is the amount of additional play that a pitch could potentially accommodate in additional
to current activity. There may be reasons why this potential to accommodate additional play should not
automatically be regarded as actual spare capacity, for example, a site may be managed to regularly
operate slightly below its carrying capacity, to ensure that it can cater for a number of friendly matches
and training activity. This needs to be investigated before the capacity is deemed actual spare capacity.
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7.1.14 Match equivalent sessions is an appropriate comparable unit for pitch usage. For football, rugby union
and rugby league, pitches should relate to a typical week within the season and one match = one match
equivalent session if it occurs every week or 0.5 match equivalent sessions if it occurs every other week
(i.e. reflecting home and away fixtures). For cricket pitches it is appropriate to look at the number of
match equivalent sessions over the course of a season and one match = one match equivalent session.
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End
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