We, the undersigned, strongly urge Powys Council to reconsider the proposed closure of Llanidloes Leisure Centre. The council is set to make a final decision on November 28th, and our voices must be heard before then.

Closing Llanidloes Leisure Centre would negatively impact the wellbeing, health, and quality of life for thousands of residents in our town and neighboring communities. While we understand the financial pressures the council faces, the data shows that Llanidloes Leisure Centre is not only cost-effective but vital for providing accessible fitness and wellness options for all ages, with no alternative facilities within a reasonable distance.

Here’s what stands out about the current decision-making process:

 1.Inconsistent Justifications for Closure:

Council officials claim closures are about reducing costs. Yet, Llanidloes’ maintenance costs per user over ten years are lower than those of facilities in Brecon, Llandrindod Wells, and Newtown, which are being kept open. Llanidloes costs £6.40 per user compared to £7.30 in Llandrindod Wells and £10.89 in Newtown, despite Llanidloes having a higher utilization rate. Additionally, Brecon’s total maintenance costs over ten years are significantly higher than those of Llanidloes, yet Brecon is not at risk.

 

2. Limited Options for Rural Communities:

Towns like Llanidloes, Builth, and Rhayader are all at risk of losing their facilities, despite the lack of alternative gyms, swimming pools, or community fitness spaces nearby. In contrast, towns like Llandrindod Wells have multiple private options and are still set to retain their public centres. This decision unfairly impacts rural communities, who would need to travel over an hour round-trip to access fitness facilities, increasing barriers to maintaining healthy lifestyles and ultimately adding pressure to healthcare services.

 

3. Transparency and Accountability: 

Powys Council has not provided residents with detailed financial information for each leisure centre, including the revenue shortfall that would indicate the actual costs to keep Llanidloes operational. We demand full transparency so that communities can understand what is needed at the local level to help keep these centres viable and sustainable.  

 

4. Long-Term Impacts on Young Families and the Local Economy:

Closing leisure facilities in rural areas could accelerate the demographic challenges Powys already faces, driving young families and individuals away due to the lack of accessible services. This pattern threatens the local economy and future tax revenue as fewer people will choose to stay in communities that lack essential services.

We ask the Powys Cabinet to:

1. Recognize the cost-effectiveness and unique value that Llanidloes Leisure Centre provides to the surrounding community.

2. Postpone any closures until a full review of each centre’s financials and utilisation is made available to the public.

3. Ensure that decisions about closures are based on objective criteria, prioritising equitable access for rural communities over short-term financial planning.

4. Allow communities to explore viable options to support their centres in collaboration with the council, with complete transparency on what financial support would be required to keep them open prior to options being finalised or decided upon. 

5. Keep Llanidloes Leisure Centre Open: We urge Powys Council to prioritize the continued operation of Llanidloes Leisure Centre, recognizing its essential role in the community. This facility is a vital resource for improving public health, supporting families, and offering accessible fitness options to all. Closing it would disproportionately affect rural residents, who would face long journeys to the nearest facilities. Keeping the centre open is a matter of fairness, health, and long-term investment in the wellbeing of our community.

By signing this petition, you are supporting the health, inclusivity, and long-term sustainability of Llanidloes and our neighboring communities. Let’s ensure Powys Council knows that Llanidloes Leisure Centre is an essential resource, one worth protecting for future generations.