Labour Party announces opposition to Dudley leisure cuts

Committed to maintaining services in Dudley, Stourbridge, and Halesowen, the party insists that any closure will only be considered if alternative provision in that locality is agreed upon.

Dudley Labour Group Leader Pete Lowe leader said: "We firmly believe that these services are best maintained as a Council service, and we will fight to keep them public and open. Our communities deserve access to leisure provision, and it would be wholly inappropriate that they are asked to pay the price for Tory financial incompetence by having their service decimated."

The party has also emphasised the importance of a committed, rewarded, and professional workforce. The ruling Conservative Group's consideration of transfer options has raised concerns about potential reductions in the current Terms and Conditions of the workforce.

Councillor Lowe added: "We are clear in our stance. Any scheme that threatens to undermine the terms and conditions of our dedicated workforce will be opposed. We need a workforce that feels valued and supported."

Additionally, the Dudley Labour Party warns that selling off leisure centres will have a detrimental impact on our community. Privatisation could lead to higher fees, reduced access for low-income families, and a decrease in the quality of services. 

Councillor Lowe added: "Our leisure centres are vital community hubs that promote health, well-being, and social cohesion. Their sale would be a short-sighted solution to the financial issues that have been caused by the current Conservative administrations management. Selling our leisure centres into the private sector will create long-term damage to the community fabric of Dudley.

"We must protect these essential services and ensure they remain accessible to all residents, regardless of their financial situation."

The Dudley Labour Party is urging the residents to actively support and join community and Trade Union campaigns to keep leisure services public and open.

Dudley Council confirmed they were accepting tenders from private companies to run leisure centres but no decision had been yet as the deadline is November 9

Councillor Phil Atkins, Dudley Council's cabinet member for corporate strategy, said: “The council has received several applications to take over the running of the borough’s leisure centres.

“I must stress that at this stage the council has not made a final decision to outsource leisure services.

“We will evaluate the applications and consider all options before making a final decision.”