A new playing pitch strategy is in the works for West Berkshire.

West Berkshire Council has enlisted the expertise of Stuart Todd Associates (STA), specialists in community, activity, and leisure strategy, to develop the new Playing Pitch Strategy (PPS) for the district.

The strategy forms a crucial part of the council's commitment to provide excellent sport and leisure facilities and opportunities.

The pandemic has changed how people engage in active leisure and sport, and the council wants to understand the current and future needs for sports pitches and courts.

To ensure a comprehensive understanding, the council and STA will collaborate with National Sports Governing Bodies, Sport England, and local communities.

Nigel Foot, West Berkshire’s executive portfolio holder for culture, leisure, sport, and countryside, said: "We’re excited to be working with STA on this important project.

"They have extensive experience in delivering playing pitch strategies for the public, private and community sectors and, coupled with their knowledge of the local area and need, are perfectly placed to help us deliver our ambition to provide the high-quality sports pitches and courts for West Berkshire."

STA director Stuart Todd said: "We’re very pleased to be working with West Berkshire Council on this important project and with our associates, Land Use Consultants, on the master planning element for Henwick Worthy."

The new PPS Strategy is expected to be unveiled in early summer 2025.