Selby Trust Secures £500,000 Boost for the Selby Urban Village Inclusive Sports Centre

Selby Trust has secured a £500,000 grant from the London Marathon Foundation through its Active Spaces Fund to support the development of a new inclusive multi-use sports centre as part of the Selby Urban Village project.

The funding marks a significant milestone for the long-term community initiative, helping to create a fully accessible, high-quality facility designed for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Inclusion has been placed at the centre of the plans, with the new sports hall set to feature accessible and unisex changing facilities, inclusive design elements, and welcoming spaces for everyone — including disabled people, older adults, and those who often face barriers to participating in sport and physical activity.

Working alongside Selby Active and local partners, Selby Trust aims to expand access to affordable sport and wellbeing opportunities for low-income families, women, and the wider community.

Building on more than 30 years of community impact, the development will transform Bull Lane Playing Field into a vibrant, safe, and inclusive destination for sport, recreation, and community activity. The project has been shaped in collaboration with more than 50 local sports clubs to ensure the facility reflects the genuine needs and aspirations of local residents.

The investment represents a major step toward creating a healthier, more connected, and resilient community, while increasing opportunities for participation, wellbeing, and social inclusion across the area.

Jack Skinner, Development Manager at Selby Trust, said:

“Securing this £500,000 grant is a major milestone for Selby Urban Village, allowing us to deliver a truly inclusive, accessible sports centre that reflects the needs and aspirations of local people.”

Once completed, the new facility is expected to become a key community asset, supporting generations of residents through accessible sport, physical activity, and community engagement initiatives.