Calls for urgent improvements to Broomfields Leisure Centre

LOCAL Lib Dems are continuing their campaign for urgent improvements to the “dreadful” Broomfields Leisure Centre – the only leisure centre south of the ship canal.

It follows on from Warrington South’s Labour MP Sarah Hall raising the issue in parliament before the recess.

Cllr Sharon Harris said, “We all know the dreadful state of the only leisure centre in South Warrington. We have been lobbying the Council for many years for improvements.
“When I first became a Councillor, I highlighted the problems to the then Labour Portfolio holder, who consistently promised Broomfields was the next priority for improvement. Since then, there have only been essential repairs done, which is a sticking plaster approach. As the building gets older and deteriorates, this is no longer tenable. The Leisure Centre Staff do an amazing job to keep it going as best they can, but this must be demoralising for them.
“We know that the Borough Council has significant financial issues and that Envoys will be supporting the council moving forward. We want a leisure centre that is fit for purpose to serve our local community. We have had recent meetings with the council to discuss what options there might be and have pressed the council to build up a Business Case. This will support the efforts of Sarah Hall, MP for South Warrington, to lobby in Parliament and also show the Envoys that Broomfields is a necessary facility for our residents.”
When she raised the issue of a new leisure centre for south Warrington in parliament last week, Ms Hall said: “Broomfields in Appleton is a much-loved facility that plays a vital role in keeping people active, connected and healthy, but it is ageing and needs serious investment.
“If we are serious about public health, we must invest in the everyday spaces that make it possible, and repair and refurbish leisure centres like Broomfields.
“We have seen what is possible when local facilities get the investment they need.
In Bewsey and Dallam, we now have a proper community hub – a space that I was proud to help bring forward.
“Let me be clear: places like Broomfields deserve that same level of care, investment and attention.”