Leisure centre petition given to council after reaching 11,000 signatures

The appeal calling for Friary Grange Leisure Centre to be saved was started by businessman Matt Wilson in July, as Lichfield Council announced it had been earmarked for closure.

On Friday, the petition was handed to council leader, councillor Doug Pullen, in advance of a public meeting to determine the future of the much loved venue, which is being held on October 7 at the Garrick Theatre.

Mr Wilson said: “The response to the petition has been staggering. The message from all parts of our community is overwhelmingly clear, people want Friary Grange to stay open.

“Every day we meet people that still have not heard about the proposed closure, and of the thousands of Lichfield residents that our campaigners have spoken with face to face, we have yet to find one person who believes closing Friary Grange is a good idea.”

Councillor Pullen said: “We’re expecting a big turnout to the Cabinet meeting. We are looking forward to hearing from all the people who have registered to speak at the meeting about what Friary Grange Leisure Centre means to them.

“Once we have heard from the speakers, cabinet will discuss the options for the future of leisure provision in Lichfield.”

The Save Friary Grange group are now urging Lichfield residents to attend the meeting.

Mr Wilson added: “It’s now vital that everyone who cares about keeping Friary Grange open comes along on October 7. We need Lichfield residents to really show the council cabinet how strongly we feel and ensure this vital facility remains open to us all.

“I’d also like to extend my thanks to Doug Pullen for ensuring that the views of the public are heard. He’s been in regular contact from the moment the petition was started, and we now hope that he and the Cabinet are indeed listening to the people.” The future of Friary Grange will be discussed at the cabinet meeting at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre on October 7 at 6pm.