7k sign petition to save 'only public facility of its kind' in Somerset
The council say no final decision has yet been made
Last updated 9th Jan 2024
More than 7,000 people have signed a petition calling for a 'halt to the proposed closure of Yeovil Recreation Centre's sports and leisure facilities'.
For over 50 years, the Yeovil Olympiads have called the Bill Whistlecroft Athletics Arena at Yeovil Rec home.
To save costs Somerset council are considering closing the centre, with a decision due next month.
In an online petition, Geoff Cole, Chairman of the Yeovil Olympiads and the Somerset athletics association said: " These facilities are not just local assets; they hold regional importance across the South West as they represent the only public facility of its kind and quality in Somerset.
"The impact of this closure would be far-reaching. The Yeovil Olympiads would lose their base, local schools that utilise these facilities for physical education and sports events would be left without an alternative, other athletics clubs who depend on these amenities would be displaced, and County, Regional and National level competitions hosted here would need to find new venues.
"We urge Somerset Council to reconsider their proposal to close down such a vital part of our community's life. Let us preserve our sporting heritage for current users and future generations alike."
A spokesperson for Somerset Council said: “We are in an unprecedented position due to the rising costs faced by local authorities across the country, largely driven by costs of social care.
“We of course understand people’s concerns. These are not things we would ever want to be considering, but the broken model of local government funding leaves us with no choice.
“No decisions have been made and will not be until the budget is set at Full Council on 20 February.
“We would strongly recommend that people take part in the Council’s budget consultation which runs until 22 January, the result of which will help influence councillors as they seek to set a balanced budget.
“Our discussions with government continue, and we hope there could be some movement, but we have to work with what we know now.
“We’ll continue to speak to parish, town and city councils and community groups. We hope in many cases if we have to stop our funding others will be able to pick up some of these services.”
To have your say on the budget click here
To see the petition click here