The purchase and development of land or existing buildings to
provide new - or preserve existing - sports facilities and the
purchase of sporting rights (eg angling) are both eligible for
grants.
Although projects for land / building purchase will normally
relate to freehold property, the purchase of a long leasehold
interest is not excluded. However, the purchase of long leaseholds
will only usually be considered where it is deemed equivalent to
freehold. In this regard, a lease of 99 years or more at a
guaranteed peppercorn rent would constitute freehold equivalent.
The purchase of a lease at a premium in lieu of annual rent or to
reduce the rent is not acceptable, as this is regarded as
equivalent to a revenue subsidy.
The acquisition of sporting rights must be for a significant
period, if the project is to attain any priority, and the terms
will determine value for money.
For all property purchase projects, a site plan is required that
clearly shows the location and boundaries of the property to be
purchased and the means of access to the site. The allowable cost
for such projects is the lower of the actual cost or the valuation
of the district valuer (or other independent valuer), plus any
reasonable legal fees and disbursements.
Acquisition of undeveloped land or existing buildings that will
not immediately be brought into sporting use does not represent an
eligible project, as eligibility requires guaranteed sporting use
within a reasonable time. Applications must include the cost of
concurrent development or adaptations necessary to provide a viable
sporting facility.