Ripon Spa Baths

“We need to be more commercially focused on the future of sport and leisure” say Harrogate Council

6 June 2018

Harrogate Borough Council have launched a consultation on the future of the sport and leisure services in the the district – but have said that they need to be more commercially focused in the future.

The council is asking for views on a new sport and leisure strategy. There is an online form that gives an opportunity to show if you agree with currently defined strategy.

The council say they are setting out their priorities, which includes improving health and wellbeing, removing barriers to participation,boosting mental wellbeing and community cohesion and positive customer experience.

The strategy reflects the ongoing financial pressures and the challenge of maintaining and investing in facilities and services. It makes it clear there is a need for the council to be much more commercially-focused in future when making decisions about what is offered.

Currently, the council operates six swimming pools and leisure centres, several playing pitches, tennis courts, bowling greens and pitch-and-put golf courses. It has also responsibility for the district’s parks and green spaces including the Nidderdale area of outstanding natural beauty.

The strategy suggests there needs to be greater partnership working in future with the health, education and voluntary sectors and with sports governing bodies.

It also recognises the importance and value of sports clubs and the many people who give up their time for free to keep them running.

The document includes references to making better use of parks, open spaces and the countryside to promote greater physical exercise and proposes the development of what it calls ‘active workplaces’ where businesses would encourage staff to be more active.

 

 

The consultation survey is here: www.snapsurveys.com/wh/s.asp?k=152760216525

It closes on 23 July 2018.

Councillor Stanley Lumley, cabinet member with responsibility for sport and leisure, said:

We are committed to doing everything we can to enable people to enjoy sport and physical activity in Harrogate district.

But, it’s important we take stock every once-in-a-while to make sure we are clear about what we want from our sport and leisure services.

The new sport and leisure strategy reflects our proposed future ambitions.

I’d like to encourage people to be part of our consultation – we need to capture as many views as possible to make sure our sport and leisure offer has the greatest impact.

 

 

1 Comment

  1. I don’t think they really are committed to everyone being able to participate in sport and fitness.

    The Hydro is expensive I can’t afford their gym prices even though I work full time. For a council run facility it ought to be much more accessible.

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