MP doesn’t want Woolston Neighbourhood Hub to close

WARRINGTON North MP Charlotte Nichols says she doesn’t want the under-threat Woolston Neighbourhood Hub to close.

It follows the shock news that Warrington Borough Council has started a six-week consultation over the possible closure of the leisure facility, which has been closed since July following an issue with Legionella in the water system.
The cash-strapped council say it will cost £3m to bring the facility up to standard and keep it open.

Commenting on the Save Woolston Nieighbourhood Hub Facebook group Ms Nichols said: “I know how important the Hub is to the local community, and the strength of feeling about the impact its recent temporary closure is having and will continue to have on local residents that use it, our sports clubs and community groups that are based there.
“After meeting with the Council last week, they have informed me it will cost £3 million to keep the Hub open, including repairing the collapsing roof, and fixing the rotting floor.
“I do not want closure to be the outcome – therefore I am working with the Council, DCMS and MHCLG (both government departments) about how this closure can be avoided and this amenity kept in the area (both for the residents it directly serves, and for the knock-on impacts on the other Hubs locally). I also encourage all concerned to respond to the Council’s consultation.”
The Facebook campaign group launched by local resident Rachel Holden has already gained more than 1,500 members in little over 24 hours, showing the strength of feeling in the area.

To take part in the consultation, please visit warrington.gov.uk/woolston-hub-consultation and complete the survey. Following the consultation period, all feedback will be considered before a final decision is made by the council’s Cabinet.

Campaign launched to save Woolston Hub from closure