Residents across York and North Yorkshire will soon see new opportunities to get active thanks to the first round of funding from the Mayor’s Movement, Activity and Sport Fund. A total of 49 projects have been awarded over £1 million, supporting community groups, charities and local organisations working to help people of all ages move more, enjoy the outdoors and improve their wellbeing.
The fund focuses on tackling inequalities, supporting early intervention, and improving physical and mental wellbeing, with projects delivered in partnership with North Yorkshire Sport. Grants have been awarded region‑wide, spanning cycling initiatives, accessible sport, outdoor recreation and community facility upgrades.
The funded projects reflect the Mayor’s ambition to widen access to movement and activity for everyone – from children discovering new sports to older adults seeking low‑impact ways to stay active.
Highlights include:
- A new pump track in Grassington, giving local children and young riders a safer, purpose‑built space for cycling and scooter use.
- Ryedale’s first accessible Rebound Therapy service at Norton College, supporting people with disabilities through trampoline‑based physical therapy.
- A fully inclusive bike park in Richmond, encouraging riders of all abilities to experience adapted and inclusive cycling.
- Upgrades to community sports facilities, including Wombleton’s Multi‑Use Games Area (MUGA) and a new dedicated children’s cycle track in Ingleby Arncliffe.
Alongside infrastructure and facility improvements, several projects will help young people develop confidence, resilience and new skills through activity and adventure.
One of the organisations celebrating funding is Wetwheels Yorkshire, which will use its grant to make sea fishing fully accessible for disabled people via a specially adapted powerboat – opening up outdoor experiences that many may otherwise be excluded from.
Meanwhile, Hillside Scout Group will now be able to purchase its own archery equipment, enabling 70 young people across Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers to take part in regular, confidence‑building archery sessions without relying on borrowed kit.
North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith said:
"Sport changed my life and saved my life, I want more people to have the same opportunities to lead more active lives, improving their physical and mental health.
"That’s why we’re investing over £1 million into 49 projects across the region. From Grassington to Scarborough, we’re ensuring that people of all ages and abilities have the opportunity to lead more active lives.
"Movement, activity, and sport play a huge role in improving mental health and tackling social isolation. I can’t wait to get out and see the impact of these investments first-hand as we prepare for our next round of funding."
This investment is the first wave of support from the Movement, Activity and Sport Fund, with more opportunities to come as the region continues its mission to boost physical activity and reduce inequality.
With projects launching from Scarborough to Richmondshire, and from Grassington to York, the initiatives promise to create more inclusive spaces, strengthen community connections and help local residents lead healthier, happier lives.
Image credit: iStock
