As we emerge from this pandemic it has never been more important that we are active and healthy. As an avid football fan, I know the importance of grassroots football for improving fitness, confidence and character. Ahead of the budget I wrote to the Chancellor asking that he fulfil the manifesto promise to invest an additional £550 million into grassroots football facilities over the next 10 years in order to unleash the power of the game at a community level. This pledge also has an important role in our bid to host the FIFA 2030 men’s World Cup.
I recently met with the Football Association (FA) to discuss funding for grassroots football facilities in Chingford and Woodford Green and am very pleased that the FA will now receive £25 million for facilities, which will make a big difference to communities up and down the country. I look forward to working with the FA to ensure that our constituency receives funding to improve existing facilities and set up new good quality football pitches.
