Call to Save Woolston Neighbourhood Hub passed unanimously by council

A motion to Save Woolston Neighbourhood Hub was passed unanimously at the Full meeting of Warrington Borough Council last night.

A large number of protestors braved the rain to make their feelings known outside the Parr Hall before the meeting.
After much debate, the council unanimously agreed a Motion proposed by Councillor Tynan and seconded by Cllr. Stuart Mann

Thanking campaigners who turned out in force, Local Cllr. Rob Tynan said: “Last night’s Full Council sent a clear message: Woolston Hub must be saved. My motion to save our hub was passed unanimously, now it’s time for this Labour-run Council to get on with setting out steps to reopening and making sure the consultation is open and transparent.
“Residents have waited long enough. The Hub is vital to our community, our health, and our local services. That’s why I will keep holding the Council to account until we see a real plan, proper engagement, and firm action to reopen the facility using any means necessary.
“I’ll continue to fight for Woolston and make sure local voices are heard loud and clear. And while this motion is a big step forward, the fight isn’t over. I urge everyone to keep signing the petition as it strengthens our case and shows just how much local people care about this vital community asset.”
Cllr Mann added: “To have this motion passed is a really, really positive first step BUT as Rob said last night this is not the end, it is only the start.
“Much more needs to be done to secure the future of the ‘Hub We Love’ and moreover ALL leisure services across Warrington.
“Whilst the conversation of how we got to this point is a very valid one I think at least for today we should celebrate what was achieved last night.
“Now the hard work begins!”

The motion: Woolston Neighbourhood Hub has long been a central part of local life, providing access to a swimming pool, library, gym, squash courts and community spaces. Situated alongside the local GP practice, it plays an important role in supporting health, wellbeing, learning and social connection. Since its closure in September 2025 due to water-safety and structural concerns, residents have been left without access to many valued services. The ongoing uncertainty has understandably caused frustration and concern about the future of the site. It is widely recognised that the challenges facing community facilities are complex and that difficult decisions may be required. However, any decisions about Woolston’s future must be shaped openly and with meaningful involvement from local people. Woolston is a growing community with evolving needs, and long-term planning should reflect that. This Council resolves to:

1. Acknowledge the full community value of the Woolston Hub, including its contribution to health, leisure, learning and social wellbeing.

2. Commit to a clear and transparent consultation on the future of the site, ensuring that Woolston residents can participate fully.

3. Explore and publish all realistic options for repairing, reusing or replacing the facility, supported by clear and accessible costings.

4. Ensure continued access to local library services, fitness facilities and community meeting space, either within the existing site or nearby.

5. Work collaboratively with local GP services to understand how any future proposals may affect patient access and primary care provision.

6. Provide a detailed update to Full Council within three months, setting out progress, findings and proposed next steps.

For details of the campaign via savewoolstonhub.uk