A local councillor has called on Warrington Borough Council to urgently extend its public consultation on the future of Woolston Hub.
In a letter sent to the Interim Chief Executive of the Council, local Tory Cllr Rob Tynan raised serious concerns about the way the decision-making process has been handled. He is demanding greater transparency over the financial figures used, more inclusive engagement with residents, and clear answers about public safety.
Cllr Tynan questioned the Council’s claim that repairs to the building would cost £3 million. He said this figure appears unsubstantiated, with no full structural survey published to support it. He also criticised other cost estimates such as £250,000 for dance studio flooring as lacking detail or justification.
The consultation itself has also come under fire. Residents have reported that the online survey gives no option to support keeping the Hub open, and elderly residents without internet access are being left out entirely.
In addition, the letter raises concerns about the lack of information on how the Council has addressed the Legionella bacteria issue – something it is legally required to manage under health and safety law.
Cllr Tynan is calling for the consultation to be extended to at least 9 March 2026, so that residents have a fair chance to respond, and the Council has time to publish proper evidence.
Commenting, Cllr Tynan said: “Local people are being asked to comment on a major decision, but the facts just aren’t there. The costs don’t add up. The consultation is flawed. And the risks to residents, especially the elderly, disabled and young people, haven’t been properly addressed. We need transparency, and we need to listen to local voices before it’s too late.”
Nearly 2,000 people have now signed a petition to save the Woolston Hub.
Faced with costs of an estimated £3m to bring the building up to spec following legionella being found in the water supply and other structural problems, including rotting flooring, Warrington Borough Council launched the six-week consultation on the future of the building last month.
It has caused huge controversy in the local community and calls to save the facility were unanimously approved by Full Council earlier this month.
Cllr. Tynan concluded:”My motion at full council on December 1st was passed unanimously staying :-
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.”
Call to Save Woolston Neighbourhood Hub passed unanimously by council
