Local campaign group feel ‘unfairly represented; during consultation of Dewsbury Sports Centre calling on the council for its immediate re-opening.
“Stop the Closures”, a local campaign group, is calling for immediate action from Kirklees Council to reopen the Dewsbury Sports Centre following a Cabinet meeting on 12 December.
During the meeting, Cabinet members discussed the future of local leisure centres. It was confirmed that Batley Sports and Tennis Centre and Colne Valley Leisure Centre will remain open. However, the future of Dewsbury Sports Centre is still hanging in the balance, with the potential to explore options for the dry side of the centre. Unfortunately, this means the centre remains closed for the foreseeable future.
While the group is delighted that Batley and Colne Valley are staying open, they express deep concerns over the continued closure of Dewsbury Sports Centre. “While I understand the RAAC issue at Dewsbury on the wet site, I’m very concerned that the leisure centre may remain closed as it serves a relatively deprived community, some of whom will struggle to get to other facilities because of financial issues, distance or public transport concerns,” says Jackie Ramsey, cabinet member for health and social care.
Cllr Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration, thanked everyone who took part in the consultation and noted that views and ideas had made a real and positive difference to the proposals. However, campaigners argue that the residents of Dewsbury felt there was unfair representation during the consultation process, especially since the centre was closed and advertised as a temporary closure.
Campaigners argue that the closure has left young people without facilities to exercise effectively and learn how to swim. It has also made it difficult for older adults to maintain travel to other sites, with some paying an additional £15 per week due to increased fuel costs. The nearest leisure centre is a 40-minute journey or requires three bus rides for many members, making it inaccessible for many in the community.
For many Dewsbury Sports Centre is much more than just a place to exercise; it’s a cornerstone of the community. Campaigners have said: “The centre provides a safe, accessible space where people of all ages can come together, fostering a sense of community spirit and belonging. It’s where friendships are formed, where children learn essential life skills such as swimming, and where older adults can stay active and connected. The closure of this centre has far-reaching implications, affecting not only the physical health but also the social and mental well-being of our community. It’s not just about fitness; it’s about our community’s heart, and we must fight to keep it beating.”
The campaign group says it will continue to fight for the reopening of the centre, advocating for a leisure facility that serves the full community.
The “Stop the Closures” campaign is urging Kirklees Council to take immediate action to rectify this situation and reopen Dewsbury Sports Centre.
In the meantime, Kirklees Council is working with Kirklees Stadium Development Limited to find a new operator, since the removal of KAL.
