By Emily Robinson, CEO, London Sport
London is at a crossroads.
As we approach the upcoming local elections, borough leaders are grappling with some of the most complex challenges our city has faced in a generation: how to deliver the homes London needs, how to reduce pressure on an overstretched NHS, how to grow our economy, and how to build stronger, safer and more cohesive communities in an increasingly polarised climate.
These are not small challenges. One reality remains is that our land is limited.
At London Sport, our new manifesto sets out practical actions for boroughs to reduce inactivity and tackle inequality. But at its heart is a simple, urgent message:
We must rethink how London works, particularly around how we use space.
More than sport: a solution to London’s biggest challenges
Physical activity is often framed as a “nice to have”, but in reality it is foundational. It improves physical and mental health, helping to prevent and manage long-term conditions and reduce pressure on health services.
Evidence shows that it supports economic growth: boosting productivity, improving educational outcomes and enabling more people to participate fully in the workforce.
And critically, it brings people together.
In a time where communities can feel divided, shared spaces for sport, play and movement create connection. They build trust, foster belonging and provide positive outlets, particularly for young people – which is certainly true during the school break!
This is something I feel so passionately about, and I will absolutely die on this hill – whether it’s a game of football on an estate, a dance session in a community hall, or children playing in a local square, these moments matter. They are crucial in shaping how people feel about where they live, and how they feel about each other. And if they feel they have pockets of joy in their lives.
Unlocking the spaces we already have
We cannot meet future demand through building traditional sports facilities alone. That much is clear. Land constraints, cost pressures and competing priorities make that impossible.
So, we must look again at the assets already embedded in our neighbourhoods.
Estates. High streets. Markets. Schools. Community centres. Faith buildings. Public realm.
These are not just places to pass through, they are places where activity can happen.
This is the thinking behind our work to activate non-traditional spaces across London, and it is brought to life through our award-nominated More Ball Games campaign.
For too long, “No Ball Games” signs have restricted informal play, often in communities where access to space is already limited. By working with boroughs to remove these unnecessary barriers, we are helping to unlock everyday opportunities for children and young people to be active close to home.
We understand that protections must be in place for peace and property, but this is about more than signage…It is about a shift in mindset – from restricting activity to designing for it.
We saw this first hand at a recent activation we put on in South London[1], where a local market was transformed into a space for young people to be active alongside traders and shoppers. It was simple, low-cost and community-led, but the impact was immediate. Energy, connection, curiosity. People stopped, watched, joined in. Kids had fun and moved around.
It showed what is possible when we look at our spaces differently.
A call to local leaders – building a London for everyone
Local authorities have a unique role to play. They shape the built environment. They influence health, transport, housing and community services. They convene partners and set local priorities.
Our new manifesto is a call to use that influence – to embed physical activity across decision-making, and to take a more joined-up, place-based approach to tackling inactivity. Because where a Londoner lives should never determine whether they have the chance to be active, to belong, and to thrive.
That means:
- Designing developments that prioritise movement and play
- Protecting and unlocking access to existing facilities
- Embedding physical activity within health and care systems
- Targeting investment where inequalities are greatest
- And crucially, reimagining how local spaces are used every day
I know that sport and physical activity will not solve every challenge London faces. But if we are serious about building a fairer, healthier and more connected London, we must start with how people live their everyday lives – and the spaces that shape them.
Now is the moment to rethink London and to make it a city that truly works for everyone.
[1] London Sport Activation in Merton – Mitcham Market
ENDS
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Notes to Editors:
In light of the upcoming local elections, London Sport has produced a manifesto, calling on borough leaders and councillors to work in partnership with us to embed physical activity into the fabric of everyday life.
London Sport’s vision aligns with our broader Strategy: to tackle inactivity where it is highest, remove structural barriers and ensure every Londoner can live a longer, healthier and happier life through being active.
