This week Poynton Leisure Centre -– next week Macc?

David Rutley, Macclesfield MP, has expressed his strong opposition to proposals from Cheshire East Council that could lead to the closure of Poynton Leisure Centre.

The proposals are linked to the Council’s Strategic Leisure Review and threaten the future of this much valued and well-used community facility. 

David has joined local Poynton Councillors, many local residents and community organisations, such as Poynton Dippers, in setting out their clear objection to any future plans that could lead to closing the Leisure Centre. The local MP has received high levels of correspondence from concerned members of the public who have highlighted the detrimental affects the proposed closure would have for physical health and emotional and mental well-being in the wider community. 

During a recent visit to the Leisure Centre, David saw first-hand how well-used the amenities are: from local schools accessing the pool to local residents benefitting from gym equipment, classes and facilities for basketball, netball and more. David also had the opportunity to attend the Poynton Dippers awards presentation evening. Over 150 people attended the packed event and all expressed their strong support for the vital role the Leisure Centre plays in the community. 

The services provided by the Leisure Centre are clearly in demand. Six primary schools use the swimming pool, with 666 pupils benefitting from the facilities, as part of the learn to swim scheme. With this active use and Poynton Leisure Centre recently receiving £46,170 Government funding to make operating the swimming pool more financially sustainable, any plans to close the Leisure Centre seem poorly judged.

David understands Cheshire East Council will be undertaking a public consultation and review of the proposals, which will become active over the coming weeks. He urges local residents to make known their strong support for the Leisure Centre, as part of the consultation process.  

Speaking after his recent visit to Poynton Leisure Centre, David said “I am actively campaigning alongside local Poynton Councillors and community groups to oppose Cheshire East Council’s proposals that could lead to the closure of Poynton Leisure Centre. It’s clear that the Leisure Centre is in real demand from local schools, community groups and residents. Closing the Centre would have a very negative impact on both physical and mental health in our area. I urge Cheshire East Council to closely engage with local stakeholders such as Poynton Town Council and Everybody Health & Leisure to seek a more sustainable future for Poynton Leisure Centre – it must remain open.”

Ilovemacc comment: The future of Knutsford Leisure Centre is already under discussion. Macclesfield Leisure Centre may be next.