Voice readers are broadly split 50/50 on whether new-build or refurbishment is the way forward for Spalding’s Castle Sports Complex, a survey has shown.
South Holland district councillors and top officers are considering the leisure centre’s future provision, with the cost of a new-build put at more than £20million by leader Coun Gary Porter.
A questionnaire in last week’s edition asked which option readers would prefer. About half of respondents claimed a refurbishment of the current split-site facilities would suffice.
And it appears many residents would be prepared to pay for better facilities. Only a small minority of replies said no to increased Council Tax.
We also asked whether the complex should stay in its current location as opposed to a move out of town. There was huge support for it to remain where it is.
And respondents dismissed the notion that the complex could do without a pool, almost unanimously saying it was “very important”.
Suggestions for additions to current facilities included indoor tennis, dance studio, childcare facilities for evening classes, spin studio, more parking and a running track.
Meanwhile, a former head of planning at the council has called for a “totally objective, independent, expert, professional assessment” made of the costs and opportunities of both a rebuild and refurbishment.
Roger Smith added: “Yes, the field is in need of upgrading (eg the running track, public seating, play equipment, public toilets), but when the council can make resources available the Castle Field could be made more attractive, and its use promoted more actively.”
Mr Smith, who is a key member of Spalding cycle action group Pedals, said the complex’s easy accessibility on foot, bicycle, bus or car is a major plus.
He believes Spalding is “very fortunate” to have the leisure complex in a central location and moving it out of town would “be to the disadvantage of a great many people”.
