We  now have to start again with a Council Petition!! Please sign this link ASP

Council Petition - This requires you to create an account with the city council if you havent already and then provide an address where you work, live or study.

Again if you havent yet filled out the online consultation document please use the link below and maybe some of the comments below may be useful for you to add?

Council Consultation  

Suggestions of things that you may wish to put in the consultation are shown below. Please modify these points that may be relevant to include your own story—e.g., how long you have used the centre, how you get there (walking vs. driving), or how it impacts your family. If you have done the questionairre and then decide some of the points below are relevant go online again and make your point.

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."

 

For over half a century, our community has gathered at our beloved New Parks leisure facility. This establishment, equipped with a swimming pool, gym, and the city councils only competition-standard squash courts, has been more than just a place for physical activity—it's been a cornerstone of our community life. Recently, the local council has invited us to consult on a proposal that threatens to close this vital community hub, a decision that could dismantle the vibrant sports culture we've nurtured for generations.

The facility is not just local, but an essential part of our lives. For five decades, it has provided a space for families, friends, and sports enthusiasts to come together, fostering camaraderie and promoting health and well-being. The squash courts, in particular, are a rare treasure; they are one of the few locations in the country with 5 fully viewable courts, meeting competition standards. Such amenities not only benefit the current members but also attract people from all over the county and beyond.

If this facility were to close, it would leave a significant void in our community. Members would be forced to travel long distances to find similar amenities, and the strong network of friendships and sporting camaraderie we have built over the years would be irreparably damaged. Furthermore, closing the facility could discourage physical activity, leading to a potential increase in health-related issues for our residents.

We propose to the local council that instead of enforcing closure, we explore viable alternatives such as collaborating with local businesses for sponsorship, potential takeover of the facility, or the construction of new courts in the local area.

We call upon our community members, local businesses, and elected officials to recognize the cultural, social, and economic value of this facility. By signing this petition, you help us safeguard a shared legacy that enriches our lives and shapes our community identity. Let's work together to preserve our local heritage and ensure that this vital centre remains open for future generations. Please sign this petition to make your voice heard and support the continuation of our cherished leisure facility.

Every signature counts. Join us in making a difference. 

Council Consultation