Rochford District Council has invited expressions of interest from community organisations to take on the lease and management of the Rawreth Sports Pavilion in Rayleigh, along with the surrounding sports pitches.
The opportunity includes the pavilion facilities at Rawreth Lane, which provide changing rooms, showers, and community space, as well as a management agreement covering around 15 acres of sports grounds that include existing cricket and football pitches.
The council is seeking a financially stable organisation capable of managing the site sustainably while maintaining sport and community activity at its core. The selected operator will be responsible for running the pavilion and pitches, including maintenance, health and safety compliance, and operational costs, while also managing bookings and hire agreements for sports use.
Under the proposed arrangement, there is potential for the organisation to generate income through pitch hire and pavilion usage. However, some initial investment will be required to fit out and prepare the facility for long-term operation. Lease terms of up to approximately 25 years are being offered, with flexible arrangements that may include a community value discount on rent.
Existing cricket and football activities must be maintained, but the council is encouraging applicants to expand sporting opportunities and increase community engagement to develop the site into a more active and sustainable local hub.
While the pavilion and sports pitches are included in the lease opportunity, Rochford District Council will retain responsibility for other parts of the wider site, including the car park, play area, and surrounding green space.
Interested organisations have been asked to submit expressions of interest by contacting the council via email, with further details to be provided to applicants. The deadline for initial enquiries is 26 June 2026, with final submissions due by 17 July 2026, after which evaluations will begin.
