The fate of a beloved bowls club hangs in the balance, leaving members devastated and fighting for their home. But is it a fair decision? Members of the Gedling Indoor Bowls Club in Nottinghamshire are pleading with the local council to save their cherished community hub.
This club, with a rich history spanning over three decades, is more than just a place to play bowls. It's a sanctuary for over 300 members of all ages, from teens to nonagenarians, and it proudly holds the title of the 'Birthplace of Disability Bowls'.
The club's existence is under threat due to the council's plans to replace the Richard Herrod Centre and Carlton Forum Leisure Centre with a new 'Carlton Active' facility, featuring a swimming pool and a gym. But here's the twist: the latest plans exclude a bowling green, despite initial promises of reduced bowls provision.
Why the sudden change? The council cites financial constraints, claiming the additional cost of including a bowling green is significant. However, the club's director disputes this, arguing that the club is financially sustainable and the mentioned subsidy of over £500,000 does not relate to their operations.
The club's members are not taking this lying down. They've gathered 1,200 signatures on a petition, forcing the council to defer its final decision until February 2026. This delay, though, has members worried, as their lease expires in April.
The club's director, Ian Summerscales, passionately argues, "The potential closure is devastating. We're willing to work with the council to secure a facility for indoor bowls. But the delay in decision-making is concerning, especially with our lease ending soon."
The club's impact on its members is profound. Len Knight, a 65-year-old member, credits the club with helping him manage depression and anxiety. He was referred for therapy and instructed to continue playing bowls as part of his treatment. "Bowls is not just a sport, it's a therapy," he emphasizes.
Maggy Smith, an MBE recipient for her services to disability bowls, has been a member since the club's inception. She recalls the club's pivotal role in bringing bowlers with cerebral palsy and amputees together, inspiring other clubs to embrace inclusivity. Smith expresses her dismay at the council's plans, stating, "It's a disgrace. A pool and gym cater to younger people, but bowls is inclusive for all ages."
Carole Andrews, the club's bowls secretary, echoes the sentiment, "The club is our lifeline. We've worked tirelessly to rebuild our membership post-COVID, and this is their sanctuary."
The council, while acknowledging the club's importance, maintains that the new centre's plans are based on public consultation, which favored a swimming pool. They promise to work with the club and residents while considering the petition. However, the club's director deems the alternative sites suggested by the council as unaffordable.
This story raises questions about community spaces and the value of sports in fostering social connections. Should the council prioritize the needs of a specific demographic over a facility that caters to all ages? Is it fair to replace a community hub with a more exclusive facility? What's your take on this? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
