Whitworth Leisure Centre, a beloved community hub in Rossendale, has been transferred from Rossendale Council’s ownership to a not-for-profit community interest company. This transformation marks a new era for the centre, which has been serving the local community for decades. The centre, which dates back to the 1970s, includes a pool and gym facilities, and has been a vital part of the community, providing important health and social opportunities for residents of all ages.
In recent years, the centre had been facing numerous challenges, including repair and maintenance issues, rising operating costs, and a budget deficit. These concerns led Rossendale Council to announce plans to close the centre, sparking widespread protests and a campaign to find alternative solutions. The community was devastated by the news, and many residents felt that the centre was an essential part of their lives, providing a safe and welcoming space for them to socialize, exercise, and relax.
Despite the challenges, a group of dedicated volunteers refused to give up on the centre. They formed the Whitworth Leisure Centre Community Interest Company, with the aim of taking over the running of the centre and finding a way to keep it open. With the support of Rossendale Council and Whitworth Town Council, the community interest company was able to take over the centre in December, and has been working tirelessly to bring it back to life.
Since taking over the centre, the community interest company has made significant progress in renovating the facilities. The swimming pool, which had been out of action for some time, has been refilled and is now ready for use. The gym and other facilities have also been renovated, and the centre is expected to reopen at the end of August, with a range of activities and services planned to cater to the local community.
The community interest company has also launched a crowd-funder to raise funds for the centre’s revitalization. Local residents, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to support the centre by attending events, volunteering, or making donations. The crowd-funder has been a huge success, with many people coming forward to offer their support and help to ensure the centre’s future.
The centre’s transformation is a testament to the power of community-led initiatives and the importance of preserving community assets. It is a reminder that when communities come together, they can achieve great things, and that local government can play a vital role in supporting and empowering communities to take control of their own affairs.
The centre’s closure was initially planned due to a budget deficit, but the community’s determination to save it has led to a more sustainable solution. The community interest company is committed to ensuring the centre’s long-term sustainability, and is exploring innovative ways to generate income and reduce costs.
One of the key challenges facing the centre is the need to reduce its reliance on council funding. In the past, the centre has received significant funding from Rossendale Council, but this funding is no longer sustainable. The community interest company is therefore exploring alternative funding sources, including grants, donations, and sponsorship.
The centre is also looking at ways to increase its income through the sale of services and products. For example, the centre is planning to offer fitness classes, swimming lessons, and other activities, which will generate revenue and help to sustain the centre’s operations.
In addition to these financial challenges, the centre is also facing a number of logistical challenges. For example, the centre’s facilities are in need of renovation, and the community interest company is working to secure funding to carry out these works.
Despite these challenges, the community interest company is confident that the centre will thrive under its new ownership. The centre is a vital part of the community, and the community interest company is committed to ensuring that it remains a safe and welcoming space for residents of all ages.
The centre’s reopening is expected to be a major event in the local community, and will be marked with a range of activities and celebrations. The community interest company is planning to hold a grand reopening event, which will feature live music, food, and drink, and will provide an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the centre’s new chapter.
In conclusion, the Whitworth Leisure Centre’s transformation is a testament to the power of community-led initiatives and the importance of preserving community assets. The centre’s new ownership is a major step forward for the community, and will help to ensure the centre’s long-term sustainability. The community interest company is committed to working with the community to ensure the centre’s continued success, and is exploring innovative ways to generate income and reduce costs. The centre’s reopening is expected to be a major event in the local community, and will provide an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the centre’s new chapter.