Multi-million-pound community sports hub unveiled at Derby Racecourse Playing Fields

On Tuesday 30 September 2025, the ribbon was cut on the new Derby Racecourse Hub, thanks to a £6 million grant from the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation.

The £11.9 million project was delivered thanks to additional funding by Derby City Council, to provide the local community with access to state-of-the-art facilities.

The historic Racecourse site, which previously served as a racetrack and as home to Derby County FC is now a community sports Hub, featuring four 3G pitches, several grass pitches and a changing pavilion with an accompanying café and meeting space.

Identified in the Local Football Facility Plan for Derby, the project has created significantly more opportunities for the local community to come together through sport. 

The new facilities are used by three local grassroots football clubs and will enable their number of teams to grow by half within five years of opening. The Hub also hosts a multi-sport offering through an outdoor gym, walking and cycling paths through the park encouraging green travel and an open access 3v3 basketball area.

The FA’s Director of Football Development, James Kendall said:

“The new state-of-the-art facilities at the Derby Racecourse Hub are absolutely vital to help support the continued growth of grassroots football in the area, providing a fantastic environment for our thriving community clubs.

“Crucially, this investment will create more opportunities for people to enjoy the multiple benefits of playing football. This exciting new facility will also help to ensure greater access for women and girls to play football, which is a key priority for us as we grow the game for everyone.”

This project was delivered as part of the Football Foundation’s Hubs programme, through which the charity has already invested in 29 multi-pitch sports facilities across the country.

The Racecourse Hub is operated by Leisure United, the charitable operating arm of the National Football Trust. Any surplus revenue generated by the site will be re-invested back into grassroots sport across the city.

Mark Coulson, Leisure United Chief Executive Officer, said:

“We’re incredibly grateful to the Premier League, The FA, and the Government’s Football Foundation for their significant investment, as well as to Derby City Council for their vital contribution. Without this collective backing, the vision for this Hub simply wouldn’t have become a reality. Their commitment to improving grassroots sport is making a real difference, and we’re proud to be part of that journey here in Derby.

“Local partnership sits at the heart of everything we do at Leisure United. Our strategy is all about being embedded in the local community and building strong, trusted relationships with partners who share our ambition. That’s exactly what we’ve seen here in Derby.

“A huge thank you to the Leisure United Racecourse team, Derby City Council, Derbyshire FA, and Derby County Community Trust. Your collaborative approach and shared belief in what this Hub can deliver has been instrumental to its success — and gives us real confidence for the future.”

Cllr Ndukwe Onuoha, Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Parks and Leisure, said:

"This £11.9 million Racecourse Hub is a transformative investment for Chaddesden West. It's not just a set of pitches; it's a thriving community asset.

The response from local families and clubs has been phenomenal, clearly showing the positive difference it's making every day. This Hub provides the safe, high-quality space our residents deserve, ensuring our young people have a place to play, grow, and connect with the wider community."

Catherine Atkinson, MP for Derby North, said:

“The new Derby Racecourse Hub is a fantastic addition to our city. With its proud footballing heritage, this site now offers top-class sports facilities for everyone - from our very youngest players lacing up their boots for the first time to adults staying active and connected. It’s a place where people can come together, stay healthy, and celebrate what makes Derby such a strong, vibrant community.”