02 May 2008
As Scotland prepares to host the Commonwealth Games in 2014, a survey by Audit Scotland has found that fewer people are regularly taking part in sport and many facilities need to be improved.
The hosting of the Games in Glasgow is expected to cost £373m and Audit Scotland has warned of 'significant' public expenditure risks.
Auditor general Bob Black said: 'The Commonwealth Games are an excellent opportunity to promote sporting activity and to showcase Scotland internationally. Strong leadership and tight management of the risks will be essential.'
The study also says there are no clear links between the average public expenditure of £558m each year and the national sports strategy.
Its report, A performance overview of sport in Scotland, published on April 29, says local councils are responsible for about 90% of the average annual spending on sport, with Sportscotland (the national sports agency) and Lottery funding contributing the remaining 10%.
The Scottish government should discuss with local government how the contribution of sport can be recognised and acted on, the report states.
Black said: 'Over half a billion pounds of public money is spent each year on sport, but more needs to be done to link the national strategy for sport to sports investment across Scotland.
'Many sports facilities still need improvement to ensure that they are attractive.'
According to the spending watchdog, the level of participation in sport is declining and targets for young people's participation are not being met.
In 2001, 49% of adults took part in sport at least once a week. By 2006 this had dropped to 42%.
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