Liberal Democrat councillors are continuing their campaign for improvements to Broomfields Leisure Centre in Appleton
Warrington Borough Council is currently ‘exploring options’ for the future of Broomfields Leisure Centre, following demands for urgent upgrades. Liberal Democrat councillors are persisting in their campaign for enhancements to the Appleton-based facility.
Cllr Sharon Harris, a Liberal Democrat representative, has voiced her concerns regarding the situation. She 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.”
Cllr Harris believes this will ‘support the efforts’ of Warrington South MP Sarah Hall to lobby in Parliament and also demonstrate that Broomfields is a ‘necessary facility for our residents’.
Deputy council leader Cllr Jean Flaherty, who also serves as the cabinet member for communities, culture and leisure, has responded with a statement.
She stated: “We are currently exploring options for the future of Broomfields Leisure Centre.
“As part of this process, we are looking at how we can maximise funding to ensure residents in the south of Warrington can access high-quality leisure facilities.
“We are committed to supporting community wellbeing and providing inclusive spaces for everyone to stay active.”