Draft Belfast Playing Pitches and Outdoor Sports Facilities Strategy

Belfast City Council is the largest provider of outdoor sports facilities in the Belfast area and developed its first Playing Pitch Strategy in 2011. The draft Belfast Playing Pitches and Outdoor Sports Facilities Strategy 2026-2036 builds on what was delivered under the first Playing Pitch Strategy. It aims to further strengthen our approach and sets out our vision for high quality, accessible and sustainable outdoor sports provision for the City, over the next ten years.

Our strategy is based on extensive research and consultation and acknowledges both the progress since 2011 and our ongoing challenges. We have consulted and engaged with clubs, governing bodies, schools, community organisations and the wider community, reflecting our collective commitment to improving opportunities for participation.

This Playing Pitches and Outdoor Sports Facilities Strategy aims to embrace innovation, sustainable design, as well as environmental and inclusive development models to respond to urban growth, shifting demographics, and evolving participation trends. It aims to improve access and reduce the barriers for under‑represented groups. Its long-term investment framework aims to secure the facilities needed for both current and future generations. It reflects our commitment to ensuring outdoor sport is embedded within Belfast’s culture.

Our service provision in Belfast is centred around our residents and listening to their opinion and understanding their needs is important in the development and delivery of our plan. Equally, there is also a strong emphasis on collaboration, recognising that no single organisation can meet the city’s needs alone. Working collectively with governing bodies, the education sector, community groups, clubs, government departments and external funders will be critical to maximising resources, and delivering quality, high impact, community‑centred solutions.

As Belfast continues to grow, so too must the spaces that enable people to play, compete, connect, and thrive. This strategy represents a renewed commitment to creating a city where outdoor sport is woven into everyday life, supporting healthier individuals, stronger communities, and a more vibrant, resilient Belfast.

We recognise the value of listening to our residents' views and working collaboratively with key partners, including governing bodies, schools, community organisations and funders, to help turn this strategy into a reality over the next 10 years. We are therefore consulting on the draft Belfast Playing Pitches and Outdoor Sports Facilities Strategy 2026-2036 to ensure that residents and stakeholders have the opportunity to provide feedback before the strategy is finalised.