Up to £4 million is set to be invested in helping to create wellbeing hubs within communities across the Malvern Hills District to help them become healthier, safer, and stronger.
At a meeting yesterday (Tuesday), the Executive Committee approved the Community Infrastructure Investment Plan 2025-2028 (CIIP) for adoption by Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC).
The CIIP will invest £4 million in new and existing public open space and community facilities across the district to create wellbeing hubs, with a focus on improving accessibility and inclusivity.
This includes council-owned facilities such as Sport Martley, Upton Hill Centre, and Malvern Town Football Club.
This will mean that communities will have access to high-quality open spaces and facilities that aim to improve health and connection through sport, physical activity, and socialisation.
Across the district there is already a network of more than 150 open spaces and community sites- from sports pitches to play areas- and whilst some are in good condition, many would benefit from improvements.
Since 2020, the council has invested more than £4.4 million into its owned facilities and a further £4.1 million into community owned provision through Section 106 funding.
For areas that do not have access to Section 106 funding, the CIIP will launch a new £1 million Community Facility Legacy Grant Fund scheme (as part of the overall £4m) with grants of up to £100,000 available.
This will be towards outdoor children’s play spaces, indoor and outdoor sports facilities, and leisure and recreational provision.
Jen Taylor, Director of Communities and Housing at MHDC, said: “The adoption of this plan will provide an investment into our communities which will leave a lasting legacy for the Malvern Hills District. The plan prioritises support to protect and enhance where people live for current and future generations.”
Pictured: Rob Tyler, Area Manager at Freedom Leisure, and Mark Hammond, Community Infrastructure and Development Manager at Malvern Hills District Council, outside Upton Hill Centre.
Date Published: 19 March 2025