Local Impact of a Sports Centre: Effects on Future Intentions

Abstract

Analysing the social impact of sports facilities is important because they can have a positive impact on the health and well-being of the people who use them, foster social inclusion and participation, and be an important source of employment and local economic development. This study aimed to analyse the perception of residents of the city of Valencia on the impact of a sports facility and its influence on their future intentions about the services it provides. The sample consisted of 209 residents, of whom 113 were men and 96 were women. The sample rated positively all social impact factors of the sports facility analysed. Regression analyses revealed that two of the five social impact factors (health impact, socio-cultural impact, and image and promotion impact) significantly predict future intentions. Therefore, analysing the social impact of sports facilities provides managers with essential information to ensure a positive integration into the community and in turn, promote active and healthy lifestyles. As well as the influence of this impact on residents’ future behaviours towards the sports facility.