ONLY 2 days to GO!!!
We have 2 days left to complete the consultation, You can either do it online using the link below or make sure you complete the paper copy and hand it back to the New Parks Reception area.
Please use some of the ideas below if they relate to you. This could possibly be the last chance we have of saving New Parks Leisure Centre if enough people let it be known how it will effect them.
If you know of anyone that may not be aware that this is happening please let them know.
Thank you all for your efforts.
1. The council argues that users can simply displace to Braunstone or Leicester Leys. These points highlight why that is unrealistic for many local residents.
2. Financial Impact of Travel: "Expecting residents to travel to Braunstone or Leicester Leys ignores the financial reality of the New Parks community. Adding bus fares or driving costs to an active lifestyle acts as a direct penalty on lower-income families and completely contradicts the council's anti-poverty strategies."
3. Time and Logistics for Families: "Shifting swimming lessons and activities to alternative centres adds significant travel time to already busy schedules. For parents managing multiple children or those relying on public transport, a quick trip to the local pool becomes a multi-hour ordeal, which will inevitably force families to drop out of sport entirely."
4. Reduced Independence for Youth and Seniors: "New Parks Leisure Centre allows local children, teenagers, and the elderly to walk to a safe space independently. Forcing them to travel out of the area cuts off their access, reduces their physical autonomy, and isolates vulnerable groups."
5. The council points out low visitor numbers. These points argue that usage is a reflection of underinvestment, not lack of local interest.
Underinvestment Cycle: "Low usage is a direct result of historical underinvestment, not a lack of interest from the community. If you allow a facility to become dated and suffer from maintenance issues, attendance will decline. Investing in modernization, as the council has successfully done elsewhere, is what drives up visitor numbers."
6. Modernisation Opportunities: "Instead of spending capital to close the centre and build houses, the council should invest in green technologies like solar panels to slash long-term running costs. A refreshed gym, better community meeting spaces, or an updated reception area would instantly attract new memberships and reverse the financial deficit."
7. The Loss of Unique Facilities: "New Parks houses the city council's only competition-standard squash courts. Closing this facility doesn't just impact casual users; it permanently dismantles a vital sports pathway and niche athletic hub that cannot be adequately replicated at alternative locations."
8. Long-Term Healthcare Costs: "Closing a leisure centre in an area that directly benefits from accessible health and fitness initiatives is short-sighted. The long-term cost to the NHS and local social care services from rising obesity, poor mental health, and physical inactivity will vastly outweigh the immediate savings from closing this hub."
9. Community Lifeline: "This centre has been a cornerstone of life in New Parks for over half a century. It provides a safe, constructive environment for young people to stay active and out of trouble. Removing it takes away one of the few positive, healthy spaces left in the immediate neighbourhood."