THE current operator of a sports community hub in Weymouth has responded to concerns the site is likely to close – leaving people out of work.
As previously reported, campaigners are desperate to save indoor facilities and jobs at Redlands Community Sports Hub after Weymouth College confirmed it will be pulling out as operator in July 2022.
In response, a community petition has been launched by Weymouth resident and Dorset Council councillor for Radipole, Peter Barrow.
It is hoped the petition will secure more than 2,000 signatures so it can be put forward to the hub’s owners, Dorset Council.
READ MORE: Rally to save Redlands Community Sports Hub’s indoor facilities
However, the current operator has said any jobs at risk amid any closure would be moved directly to the Weymouth College’s Cranford Sports Centre.
Weymouth College vice principal, Rob Cole said: “We’re mindful of the petition and the concerns about the indoor facilities.
“Currently, the indoor facilities are only at 19 per cent occupancy, which isn’t enough to make profit.
“It’s costing the college on average £150,000 a year and rising.”
Mr Cole said the college confirmed it will pull out in July 2022, but representatives from the school have met 10 potential operators, but only Active Dorset has remained for a potential takeover.
“Regarding jobs, there’s only 16 jobs at Redlands Community Sports Hub. This follows some departures of younger staff going to higher education,” said Mr Cole.
“The 16 staff members would not lose their jobs – they will be offered roles at the Cranford Sport Centre at Weymouth College.
“The Redlands site does have an old style which may suit some users, but it’s in need of modernising through investment, which we cannot provide.”
Mr Cole said the college was expected to fulfil its operational obligation until 2036, but the site has cost too much money from the college’s further education fund since it started operations in 2008.
He said: “We predict it would cost the college another £4 million to keep the site running until 2036, which would put the education of our students at increased risk.”
Going forward, Mr Cole said any exercise equipment left in the building would be brought to the college site.
“We would move the equipment to the college such as the spinning bikes, where the public could join spinning classes for example,” added Mr Cole.
Mr Cole confirmed a private meeting will be held with Weymouth Town Council at the site on Thursday, December 9.
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