A new regional strategy has been launched to improve Southlanders’ access to sporting and recreation facilities. 

The Southland Regional Spaces and Places Strategy includes all local councils and several community funding agencies, and is coordinated by Active Southland.

The collaborative approach intends to build a framework to improve Southlander’s access to recreational facilities and their experience at these places, through tackling challenges with upkeep and maintenance for many aging and under-utilised buildings.

The strategy aims provide more clarity for those seeking investment and support for facilities and spaces in Southland, particularly regional sporting organisations.

Active Southland say the strategy is required as resources and funding streams for these facilities are currently under pressure, while the number of projects and the cost of development is increasing.

The strategy has been endorsed by Active Southland, Sport New Zealand, Invercargill City Council, Gore District Council, Southland District Council, Invercargill Licensing Trust (ILT), ILT Foundation, Community Trust South and the Mataura Licensing Trust.

The group of representatives will meet regularly to prioritise the strategy’s next steps.

A workshop with regional sports organisations will be held in the first quarter of 2022. 

The workshop will be an opportunity to introduce the strategy, and explain how sporting organisations can work alongside the community and other partners.