RESIDENTS are being invited to play a part in the future of Wilmslow’s public sports facilities.

Cheshire East Council is to hold a six-week consultation on new strategies to boost sport participation and facilities across the borough.

At a meeting on Tuesday, April 11, CEC’s cabinet approved holding the consultation on its indoor and built facility strategy (IFS) and playing pitch strategy (PPS).

These key documents will help ensure every local community has access to high-quality playing pitches and indoor sports facilities to meet current need and future expected growth in demand to 2030.

Cllr Paul Bates, CEC cabinet member for communities and health, said: “These strategies allow us to properly plan for and invest in appropriate indoor and outdoor sporting facilities.

“Having up-to-date strategies also best ensures existing facilities receive appropriate protection and that appropriate provision is secured from developers towards new and improved facilities to address the impact of new development schemes.

“Provision of excellent outdoor and indoor sports facilities and increasing physical exercise across our communities and is a key priority for this council. As is supporting our local teams and clubs to thrive and involve local residents of all ages.”

The strategies will be used in the determination of planning applications, and will take into account the expected increase of 36,000 homes in the borough by 2030.

They will be published for consultation on Tuesday, April 18, and amended subject to responses received.