Sport England has announced a significant investment aimed at transforming lives in Thurrock through sport and physical activity. This is part of the Place Partnership programme, designed to increase physical activity levels, reduce inactivity, provide positive experiences for children and young people, and address inequalities within local communities.
Backed by £250 million in National Lottery and Exchequer funding, the initiative will benefit more than 90 places across England until 2028. In Essex, the funding will support Thurrock, Castle Point, and Harlow, while Basildon, Colchester, and Tendring will receive additional support to build on previous progress made through the Essex Local Delivery Pilot.
The programme aims to remove barriers to movement and wellbeing, especially in underserved areas. It will involve co-designing solutions with communities based on local needs and priorities. Local organisations and grassroots projects will be supported to deliver initiatives that foster long-term change and strengthen the ecosystem of physical activity.
According to Sport England’s Executive Director of Place, Lisa Dodd-Mayne, the investment into Essex demonstrates a strategic focus on community-driven, place-based approaches to health and activity. These targeted efforts are expected to unlock wider participation and address health inequalities.
In Thurrock, the impact of this investment is already beginning, with past initiatives like Beat the Street, walking groups at Koala Park in Tilbury, and Essex Pedal Power paving the way. Active Essex, part of the national network of 43 Active Partnerships, is leading the initiative, drawing from over a decade of experience and the legacy of the London 2012 Olympics.
