Understand
More than 1,600 sign petition opposing the closure of New Parks Leisure Centre in Leicester
Overview
Over 1,600 people have signed a petition to save New Parks Leisure Centre in Leicester after Leicester City Council launched a consultation on proposals to close the facility. The council states that New Parks is its least-used leisure centre, has a higher cost per visitor, and requires significant investment for maintenance, while nearby facilities like Braunstone and Leicester Leys can accommodate displaced users. Petition organisers argue the closure would leave a significant community void, though the council has emphasised that no final decision has been made yet and local fitness programmes could still be provided if closure proceeds.
Key points
- More than 1,600 people have signed a petition titled "Save New Parks pool, gym and squash courts".
- Leicester City Council is consulting on plans to close New Parks Leisure Centre on St Oswald's Road.
- The council cites low usage, high cost per visitor, and maintenance issues as reasons for considering closure.
- Proposals include expanding facilities at Leicester Leys Leisure Centre and directing users to Braunstone.
- Assistant city mayor Vi Dempster confirmed no final decisions have been made and urged residents to participate in the consultation.
- If closed, alternative local fitness programmes could be provided, though swimming and squash facilities would not be replicated.