In November 2024, NWLDC commissioned Knight, Kavanagh & Page to conduct a regional appraisal of sports & leisure facilities in the district, and particularly the case for a 'Sports Village' in Ashby de la Zouch. This followed the Alliance Leader Richard Blunt's announcement at the full council meeting in January 2024 that sports facility improvements in Ashby were a priority for the administration during this term. 

The full report is not due to be published until October but early findings point to a significant shortfall in provision. Consequently, the alliance leadership has asked officers to conduct a parallel feasibility study on a number of council owned sites in the Ashby area to establish suitability and sustainability.

Sport England has also joined the conversation concerned by the amount of growth without adequate recreational provision. KKP is now consulting with smaller, less populated clubs in the town. The alliance is urging any club that has not been contacted by KKP to email [email protected] 

Michael Wyatt, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Communities said: "Ashby is growing, facilities must keep pace with this growth. We're delighted to have cross party, local and central government support for this exciting plan. Over the next few years, NWLDC will be exploring other inward investment opportunities in the Ashby area. A brand-new sports complex would be a significant investment for the people of Ashby". 

Alliance member and former NWLDC Chair Cllr Kenny Horn put improvements to facilities at the centre of his local election campaign in 2023 and has campaigned for improvements for many years. Kenny added "Ashby has over 40 sports clubs and associations who are all appealing for additional, improved facilities.

"A single, multisport site is clearly appealing but investment is also needed in existing satellite locations. I'd like to thank all the clubs for their positive contribution to the KKP report so far.

"With everyone aligned there is a fantastic opportunity to deliver a truly world class facility for the people of Ashby and surrounding area and therefore I sincerely hope the whole Ashby community will give the scheme 100% support."