Long Riston Playing Fields Committee - Funding Overview

Projects, Funding, and Future Plans

This document outlines PFC funding, key recent work, and upcoming major projects.

Planned Major Projects for 2026

• 1. MUGA Refurbishment

The Multi-Use Games Area, now approaching 20 years old, requires full resurfacing and replacement fencing.

The existing fencing posts must also be replaced, as new panels cannot be installed on the existing structure.

● Current estimated cost: ~£55,000.

• 2. Tennis Court Renewal and Pickleball Addition

The tennis court fencing will soon require replacement.

The courts also require cleaning and repainting within the next year.

Subject to feasibility and funding, we aim to add a permanent pickleball court to expand community use.

● Estimated cost: ~£20,000.

Completed Projects

We have completed several significant projects through grant funding and collaborative fundraising.

Project

• Footpath & Barrier(2025) £2,460 (Grant funding and joint fundraising)
• FA Pitch Improvement (2025) £40,000 (Grant funding and joint fundraising)
• Goalposts MUGA - (2024) £2,138 (Grant funding and joint fundraising)
• Junior Football Goalposts x3 and line marker - (2024) £3,310 (Grant funding and joint fundraising)
• Tennis Court Surface - (2023) £6,600 (Grant funding, crowdfunding)
• Play Park Upgrade - (2023) £138,000 (Grant funding and joint fundraising)
• Full Size Goals & Line Markers - (2023) £1,771 (Grant funding and joint fundraising)

These projects demonstrate a strong and proven track record in securing external funding and delivering meaningful improvements for the community, representing a total investment of almost £200,000.

Funding Structure and Current Challenges

Long Riston Playing Fields is a registered charity and does not receive precept-based income.

Historically, the charity received support from Riston Parish Council; however, contributions have significantly reduced over recent years:

• 2023 Requested £4,848 Awarded £4,848
• 2024 Requested £3,500 Awarded £2,450
• 2025 Requested £1,000 Awarded £0

Operating Costs

The charity incurs annual operating costs to maintain the playing fields and associated facilities.

• Annual running costs: approximately £8,000.
• ERYC contributes £5,000 annually to cover the school's use of our facilities.

This leaves a funding shortfall that must be met through fundraising, grants, and volunteers completing maintenance tasks.

Volunteer Contribution and Governance

The charity is managed by a volunteer board of trustees who dedicate significant time, effort, and expertise.

Trustees routinely empty bins, litter pick, leaf sweep tennis courts, maintain and clean the pavilion, cut hedges, and, as of 2025, cut the playing field grass with the support of Long Riston AFC.

The current trustees no longer have children who directly benefit from the facilities.

We would welcome applications to join the PFC from residents with children who use the facilities.

Their commitment ensures not only that annual running costs are covered, but that major project planning and community asset development continue.

Summary

This information is provided to help explain the funding environment in which Long Riston Playing Fields operates. We remain committed to maintaining and improving our excellent community sports and recreation facilities

Thank you for your continued support.

– Long Riston Playing Fields Committee (Charity Number 523268)

PDF Link

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1J-egHQrbBTtxlnxz35Qt5vCHNriARVI8/view?usp=sharing