Will the Minister provide an update on what discussions they are having with local authorities about support for local authority owned sports facilities?
As part of the draft Budget for 2024-25, and despite the pressures on our funding, we have maintained the increase in the local government settlement of 3.1% meaning that Local Authorities will receive £5.7bn of un-hypothecated revenue funding. It is for local authorities to prioritise their spending in line with the needs of their local communities. In addition to the Local Government Revenue Settlement, we continue to provide un-hypothecated capital funding to support local authority capital expenditure.
My officials hold regular discussions with representatives of local government on the situation regarding leisure centres and sports facilities through mechanisms such as the Chief Leisure Officers Wales group. Sport Wales also has regular dialogue with local authorities about sport and leisure facilities in the context of our £8m per year capital investment programme.