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18
Jun 2020
Lib Dems criticise 'abysmal' communication over leisure company
Harrogate Liberal Democrats have criticised an “abysmal lack of communication” from the borough council on its decision to overhaul leisure services in the district.
Councillors on the opposition group said concerns raised about the shakeup “fell on deaf ears” and added that many were left unaware of the consultation.
The criticism comes after senior councillors last night voted to set up a new company, called Brimham's Active, to run facilities such as the Harrogate Hydro, Ripon Leisure Centre and Nidderdale Leisure Centre.
Liberal Democrat councillors have set "red lines" for the company, including transparency, affordable prices and investing profits back into leisure.
Read more:
- Council backs overhaul of Harrogate District leisure facilities
- How much it costs taxpayers to run leisure in Harrogate District
- Nearly half disagree with Harrogate council's leisure overhaul
The group has also called for Starbeck Baths to be protected. Council leader, Richard Cooper, has vowed not to close the facility while he was in post.
Pat Marsh, leader of the Liberal Democrat group, said the communication from the authority gave her “no reassurance that this will be transparent and accountable”. She said:
The council said it will save around £400,000 a year on leisure and sport, which last year was estimated to have cost taxpayers £3.5 million.
Council officials will also borrow £26 million from the government’s Public Works Loans Board to fund an investment strategy into the Harrogate Hydro and a new leisure centre in Knaresborough.
The new company is expected to be operating by August 2021 and will cost the council £300,000 to set up.
Harrogate Borough Council has been approached for comment.
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