Improving Your Rugby Union Facilities
The RFU is committed to raising the standard of facilities at sustainable community rugby clubs around England, increasing the opportunities to access quality playing conditions for both new and existing players.
Managing the facilities at a community rugby club can be a minefield of legislation and guidelines, from planning permission for floodlights to fire safety compliance in club houses, or funding assistance for construction to developing a project management plan.
To help you make the most of your resources, the RFU has detailed information on all aspects of managing and improving your facilities. These range from design and construction guidance for clubhouses and changing rooms through to pitch maintenance and car parking.
RFU Facility Strategy
The RFU first launched a National Facility Strategy in 2002 and the following five years saw unparalleled levels of investment in the facilities at community rugby clubs. The RFU directly committed more than £25.5m into the game, while facilitating a further £46m of investment from other stakeholders.
Central to the success of the strategy was identification of community rugby needs and prioritisation of funding to these areas, with delivery of key performance indicators.
This investment saw vast increases in participation at clubs receiving investment, with 58 per cent mini/youth players, 16 per cent coaches and three per cent volunteers becoming involved in the game.
Remaining a key strategic priority of the RFU, a new National Facility Strategy (PDF 941kB) was launched in May 2008, providing a framework for sustainable development at a national, regional and local level.