Placemaking and revitalisation of urban areas is nothing new in the built environment. However, the lens of regeneration is often not looked at through sector-driven development, outside of the ambition to build houses or residential targets.

Sport has long played its role in shaping our towns and cities. From community playing fields and grassroots club facilities to leisure centres and stadiums, it has often acted as a social anchor for communities. Yet projects over the past decade have shown us time and time again how sports facilities can be a real driver of economic, social and physical value.

There is now a recognition that sporting venues and events need to be not just about hosting major events but also become a springboard for investment and regeneration.