Workington councillors have been urged to give the go-ahead to plans for a £9 million leisure centre in the town – despite objections from a colleague and a number of local businesses.
If approved, the new centre will be constructed in The Cloffocks ward of Workington, which is already home to a number of leisure facilities such as a cricket club and several gyms.
It would replace the existing leisure facility in Moorclose; something which councillor Denis Robertson, who is heading the campaign to have the plans thrown out, believes would prove damaging for the community.
He says; “Removing the leisure centre will be the final nail in the coffin for Moorclose.
“Moorclose will be turned into a concrete jungle – I dread to think what will be next.
“Moorclose is one of the poorest wards and it shouldn’t be stripped of its facilities.”
Fifteen objections to the new plans have been lodged. In addition, both the cricket club and Workington’s gyms have voiced concerns over the impact a new development could have upon their operations.
The cricket club believes The Cloffocks is already becoming over-developed and is worried about potential flooding issues in future, while the gyms believe a leisure centre within the area would poach customers and may lift vacant property rates in the town centre.
Yet, the local authority’s planning officer has resoundingly backed the plans, quashing fears of flooding, damage to local wildlife and the risks regarding former coal workings under the site.
In a report distributed to councillors, it said; “The proposed development is considered to be a sustainable form of development that accords with the relevant planning policies.
“The provision of the proposed leisure facilities in this highly accessible location would provide enhanced, substantial and sustainable recreation and leisure facilities for the benefit of the community within Workington and the wider areas.
“In conclusion the proposal offers significant benefits with no significant harm resulting from the development and it is considered that planning permission should be granted.”
Councillors will come to a decision regarding the facility in the near future.
Previous Post
Upsurge in Asia-Pacific Market Volumes Forecast
