New figures show that more than 90 per cent of concluded planning applications affecting playing fields in Shropshire and the West Midlands in 2007 to 08 resulted in them being improved or safeguarded.

The successful applications also led to investment totalling more than £5 million, creating six sports facilities.

Landowners, including councils, are required to consult Sport England on any proposed development that would affect or lead to the loss of a sports playing field.

Sport England objects to all applications unless the developer can prove it will improve or safeguard sports provision.

The figures released by Sport England show 122 out of 134 (91 per cent) concluded planning applications affecting playing fields in 2007/08 resulted in improved or safeguarded sports provision.

The number of applications which led to a detrimental impact on sport was 12 (nine per cent).

These figures do not include a change in the law which came into force in April, giving Sport England more power to protect playing fields by including mini pitches, often found at many primary schools.

Jennie Price, Sport England’s chief executive, said: “We will only get one million people doing more sport if they have good local facilities and playing fields.

“That’s why it’s so important that sports planning guidance for councils is made a priority. We need to use the planning system to improve and safeguard the places where people play sport, not just today but for future generations too.”

Minister for Sport Gerry Sutcliffe said: “Hundreds of millions of pounds is being ploughed into community sport by central government and local authorities to help drive participation up and leave a lasting legacy from London 2012.”