The RYA has backed a national campaign opposing proposals that could remove Sport England’s role in the planning process.

Sport England is currently a statutory consultee, meaning local authorities must consult the body before approving planning applications that could affect playing fields and sports facilities. Ministers are consulting on proposals to remove this requirement.

The campaign, Protect Where We Play, led by the Sport and Recreation Alliance (SRA), highlights the value of playing fields and pitches, which contribute at least £2 billion a year in improved wellbeing and help more than four million people stay active, including one million children. Between April 2023 and March 2024, Sport England helped protect more than 1,000 playing fields.

Campaigners warn that without Sport England’s involvement, playing fields could be sold and developed for housing, reducing access to community sport.

The RYA has signed an open letter to the Government coordinated by Fields in Trust, the charity dedicated to protecting parks and green spaces across the UK.

James Stuart, RYA Director of Corporate Affairs, said: “We are concerned about the Government’s proposal. As a National Governing Body, we see first hand the importance of Sport England’s role as a statutory consultee, and we are uncertain about the potential knock on effects for our boating communities if future access to activity or clubs becomes restricted.

“There is no doubt that this proposal would have a significantly detrimental impact on grassroots sport and local communities. We stand firmly alongside Sport England, the SRA and our fellow NGBs in working to protect these vital environments.”

As part of the campaign, the Sport and Recreation Alliance has launched a petition calling on the Government to ensure strong safeguards for playing fields, pitches and community sports facilities. 

Organisations and individuals are also being encouraged to write to their MPs.

The consultation is running for eight weeks and closes on 13 January 2026.