Residents will have the chance to challenge local politicians over the future of Dewsbury Sports Centre at a public meeting being held ahead of the upcoming local elections.
The meeting, organised by the Reopen Dewsbury Sports Centre Committee, will take place on Sunday 8 March at 1.30pm at Thornhill Lees Community Centre.
Councillors, prospective election candidates and party representatives are expected to attend, with organisers saying the event will give the public a rare opportunity to question those seeking office about what they plan to do to restore leisure provision in the town.
The sports centre, once used by families, schools, sports clubs and community groups across Dewsbury and North Kirklees, closed its doors leaving campaigners fearing the town could permanently lose a key community facility.
For many residents, the centre was more than just a gym or swimming pool — it served as a hub for physical activity, youth engagement and community wellbeing.
Since the closure, campaigners have organised petitions and community meetings, repeatedly calling for greater transparency and a clear plan from local leaders about the future of the site.
With local elections approaching, the campaign group says voters deserve answers.
A spokesperson for the committee said: “We want candidates to explain what has been done so far, why decisions were made, and if they are newly standing what they will do to secure the future of leisure provision in our area.
“This meeting is about giving residents a fair opportunity to ask questions and make informed decisions before they cast their vote.”
The event will include short statements from attending representatives, followed by a moderated question-and-answer session with residents.
Organisers are urging people from across the community to attend and make their voices heard.
“This issue affects families, young people and the long-term health of our town,” the spokesperson added. “The more people who attend, the stronger the message that Dewsbury deserves proper sports and leisure facilities.”
Members of the public are invited to attend the meeting at Thornhill Lees Community Centre on Sunday at 1.30pm.
