Why is this important? Westview based in Preston has been one of two leisure centres for decades and the success of Preston and district Swimming Club is testament to its worth. The potential full-time closure of this popular leisure and health facility is serious.

Local swimmers & gym members have had great times and success here too. Only a few years ago it had a £500,000 refurbishment in the gym (un-used now) and has the privilege of fantastic climbing walls, squash courts, indoor and outdoor 5-a-side football pitches and two well established disability groups have been based here too.  Where individuals & players alike have been successful in their chosen sports following coaching at the facility but more importantly, local school children from Preston and surrounding areas have learnt to swim over the years and engage in sports here.

Engaging in positive activities such as sport raises aspiration in children and young people. Preston City Council sold this leisure centre to Better leisure as part of cost cutting. In my opinion, it has been run down ever since.

Now it faces permanent closer – it will have a detrimental impact on Deepdale, Ribbleton and upon local schools, families & communities in this way. There is little else positive to do in this part of Preston; there are only betting shops, cafes, hairdressers, and charity shops in this part of Preston which one can only amuse themselves with.

If a well-used and popular leisure centre facility is to face permanent closer due to a financial exercise – it would be a disgrace. And what does it spell for Fulwood leisure centre and other similar facilities in the rest of Preston?

All I am asking is that Preston City Council can work with Better Leisure to find a new operating company to run the leisure centre. And re-open it safely as soon as possible.

Please give me your support to save this leisure centre.

Thank you!