The Getting South Derbyshire Active project has secured a total of £544,000 in funding.

The monies, provided by Sport England (£244,000) and members of the South Derbyshire Sport partnership (£300,000) will help deliver the newly launched South Derbyshire Sport, Recreation and Physical Activity Strategy for 2007-2010.

The strategy maps out the development of sport and recreation, including leisure facilities, the development of open space and school sport.

John Lemmon, chair of the Strategic Sports Group of South Derbyshire Sport, said the funding would significantly improve sports facilities in the region.

He said: “At least four new multi-use games areas will be created and the money will be used to significantly increase the opportunities for local people to be involved in sport either by taking part or as a volunteer with a group or team.

“An important part of the work of the ’Getting South Derbyshire Active’ project is to provide support to local clubs and societies who want to develop junior sections or recruit volunteers.“