Creswell: Axe could fall on leisure centre as council ask for residents’ views

A final decision on the the future of facilities at Creswell Leisure Centre is edging closer after Bolsover Council confirmed it was now seeking residents’ views on whether the current swimming pool should be axed.
Creswell Leisure Centre could be closing down according to Bolsover District Council. Picture: Andrew RoeCreswell Leisure Centre could be closing down according to Bolsover District Council. Picture: Andrew Roe
Creswell Leisure Centre could be closing down according to Bolsover District Council. Picture: Andrew Roe

Next week 35,000 questionnaires are set to drop through letterboxes asking local people to give their opinions on the proposal to cease the current pool operation.

If the closure goes through, then facilities at Clowne Sports Centre will be enhanced.

Cabinet member for social inclusion, coun Ann Syrett, said “It is no secret we have got to save money and every service and facility we operate is being looked at.”

“We simply just can not sit and do nothing.”

“So the proposal we are putting forward will contribute to the savings we need to make as well as improve our leisure facilities and make them much more sustainable.”

“We understand this proposal affects a lot of people and that is why we are sending out this questionnaire so they can tell us what they think.”

The Guardian understands that the public facility, which was built 90 years ago, needs investment in excess of £300,000 over the next five years to maintain its current operations.

The council currently gives a £160,000 subsidy to the centre but if the proposal is agreed it will negate the need for this level of financial support.

The new proposal aims to improve the facilities at Clowne Sports Centre with activities such as a swimming pool, smaller teaching pool, enhanced fitness suite, food and beverage offer and children’s soft play zone.

When the possible closure first emerged, resident Kevin Jones, of Eyre Street, told the Guardian: “Creswell is regarded as a deprived area and the closure would not be in the interest of residents - the closure would have a serious impact on those who use the pool for health reasons.”

“It is the only decent establishment Creswell has left and I feel the residents of our village and surrounding areas need to fight for the pool to remain open. It’s our heritage and in our blood.”

The questionnaires will be sent out during week commencing Monday 6th October and residents will have until 8th November to complete and return it. Councillors will then make a decision at a later date.

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