Campaigners claim victory in Dudley leisure centre row
Campaigners are claiming victory in their battle to keep Dudley leisure centres under full control of the council.
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Peace broke out in an increasingly acrimonious row between the trade union-led campaign and Dudley Council, which has been looking at outsourcing centres to the private sector.
Dudley’s leader, Councillor Patrick Harley, announced late on April 30 the tendering process was over and centres would stay under council control.
Paul Quigley from UNISON said “This campaign shows what we can achieve when we get organised.
“We would like to thank everyone who campaigned, of us should join a trade union, signed petitions and supported us to keep the leisure centres public and open, including the Labour Party and the Liberal Democrats.”
Councillor Harley, who had accused campaigners of misleading the public by claiming the authority planned to privatise centres, says savings elsewhere in council spending means they have ‘space and time’ to have another look at leisure services.
Councillor Harley said: “The council has been and remains committed to ensuring high quality, inclusive and accessible leisure services in the borough that also deliver value for money for council taxpayers.
“Over the last few months, we’ve carefully considered the tenders put forward by external providers. Our due diligence suggests that the best value for money in leisure centres does not lie with outsourcing at this time.
“With the significant work we have taken to improve our financial position and with a balanced budget set for the next five years, we now have the time to re-evaluate and explore the future delivery of the service.
“This shows we are being financially responsible to seek the best value for money, whilst also committing to continue delivering first class leisure services in the borough.
“We are also keen for residents to be involved in this process as we work on ensuring a vibrant and viable leisure centre services provision for all in the borough.”
Mr Quigley added: “We welcome the opportunity for residents to input their ideas for the future of the service and look forward to the services flourishing to support a healthy, fun borough.”
