URL: https://watford.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=7346

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: Watford Borough Council Sports & Physical Activity Framework 2025-2029 Watford Borough Council’s aims and responsibilities in terms of being an enabler, influencer, commissioner and facilitator of sport and physical activity to support residents of the town.

Content: Cabinet received a report of the Sports and Physical Activity Manager that set out a local framework for the development of sports and physical activity in Watford.    The Mayor invited Councillor Pattinson to introduce the report.   Councillor Pattinson introduced the report.  She stated the report built on the successes of the previous approach.  The framework set out a clear and evidence-based plan.  It would help more people in Watford to become more active more often.  It recognised the vital role sports and activities played in bringing communities together, improving quality of life.  There had been a wide consultation and this had been reflected in the final draft.  She thanked those that had been involved in the development of the plan.  The statistics showed that 24% of residents were inactive, which was higher in less affluent areas, older adults, those with a disability and some ethnic groups.   Councillor Pattinson said that the benefits to residents were clear.  Regular activity improved long term health, reducing pressures on other services and strengthened community connections.   It helped all sections of the community in varying ways.  It would make the most of the town’s parks and community facilities.  It would make a real difference; it was ambitious, inclusive, rooted in partnership and improving the health of Watford’s residents.   Councillor Pattinson thanked the Sports and Physical Activity Manager for her dedication, commitment and passion for ensuring Watford residents could access high quality activity that changed people’s lives and ensuring it was accessible to all.  Councillor Pattinson recommended the report for approval.   The Mayor echoed Councillor Pattinson’s thanks to the officers concerned.  He invited other members to comment.   Councillor Stotesbury welcomed the document.  It was excellent in that it linked to the council’s Greenspaces Strategy and Sustainable transport initiatives.  By implementing the framework it would change people’s lives and make the town more sustainable.   Councillor Bell thanked the Sports and Physical Activity Manager and other officers for their work.  He mentioned an example on page 36 of the pack referencing areas of deprivation and hoped this would be followed through and linked to the council’s work.  He welcomed the work with the County Council and other groups including Sport England.   The Mayor responded that there had been internal discussions about those areas where there could be a particular need.   Councillor Pattinson commented that it was important to note that the framework would be insight led and data driven.  Making sport accessible to all was really important and the framework could deliver that.   The Mayor referred to the map in the document and how the sports activities were spread out across the town.   Councillor Begum said it was an amazing document.  She said that there was one thing she wanted to draw out that resonated with her.  The report talked about the growing Asian community and inequalities.  The graphics in the document demonstrated multi-culturalism, portraying different ethnic clothing, different people of colour, showing the beauty of Watford’s multi-culturalism and diversity.  She wanted to acknowledge the inclusivity in the programme.   The Mayor invited Cabinet to vote on the recommendation.   Resolved –   That the Sports and Physical Activity Framework 2025-29 is approved.  

Date of Decision: December 1, 2025