There are no other play spaces in the village available for children and young people within walking distance of where they live. We would like to ask for funding to create a football pitch that would provide the opportunity for child initiated sports based activities as well as a place to gather and socialise. The park would be an ideal space, away from traffic and the main road, safe because it is overlooked by housing and part of a community space. We have through consultation gained the backing of nearby residents, the wider community and the city council who own the land for this work to take place. The space will be made accessible by improving the path and access points. The local primary school will also be able to use the space as a place to access and explore, making use of the football pitch but also the wildflower area and fruit orchard that are being developed.

What we'll deliver:

• An accessible open to all football pitch

Why it's a great idea:

This project would bring the opportunity for children in the village to meet and enjoy playing sports together, currently they have to travel out of the village to do this. As a rural community we are a distance away from sport and leisure facilities, for children to access them it has to be organised, planned and involve adult support. To have a football pitch in the village would support spontaneous, child led play and encourage children to play together regularly in their community together. Data shows that children are leading less active lives, childhood obesity is a national health concern. In rural areas although there is country side all around there are very few places for children to be active safely. The park is at the side of a cull- de- sac and away from the main road to a safe space for children to enjoy.

Steps to get it done:

• Getting the goal post installed and the pitch ready for play

This is very much a community venture, the Friends of the Roods group includes cross generational membership including parent, grandparents and other local residents. We have undertaken extensive consultation and asked the community how they want this space to be developed, our plans are based on what the community are asking for. We also have the full support of the Parish, City and County Councils.