NORTHWICH MP Mike Amesbury says he will oppose any plans that would lead to the closure of leisure centres in Cheshire West.

The Labour politician, who represents the Weaver Vale constituency, says he has raised his concerns with the head of Brio Leisure.

Earlier this month, CWAC launched a public consultation over the future of leisure centres in the borough, with changes being planned in Northwich and Winsford, with Frodsham’s centre set to close.

Mr Amesbury, who is also Shadow Minister for Housing and Planning, said: “There's no doubt that the current facilities are in need of investment — something I have repeatedly raised with Brio Leisure — but I do not support any attempt by Brio Leisure to completely withdraw the facilities.

"One thing we have seen demonstrated throughout the coronavirus outbreak is the need to encourage people to become active and promote healthier lifestyles.

 "Local leisure facilities will form an essential role in the recovery process and the populous of the Frodsham Area deserves access to class-leading facilities."

He also encouraged residents to engage with the public consultation which is open until November 1.

The proposed changes include the division of leisure facilities in primary and secondary ‘hubs’.

Primary hubs would ‘offer a full range of activities including activities such as gym, swim, fitness, room hire and cafe’, whereas secondary hubs would have similar activities, albeit on a smaller scale.

Chester’s Northgate Arena, the Ellesmere Port Sports Village, Northwich’s Memorial Court, and the Winsford Lifestyle Centre are planned to be primary hubs.

That leaves Christleton Leisure Centre, Chester, Neston Recreation Centre, and Frodsham/Helsby as secondary sites.

In a report explaining the proposals, Brio — a community interest company which is owned by CWAC— says it is making the changes because ‘the Council is facing significant financial pressures and needs to make substantial savings over coming years’.

It adds: “This means it is challenging all areas of spend, including its contribution towards the cost of Brio’s services. Future support will be prioritised to where it makes the biggest impact on the boroughs health and wellbeing and this requires a review of both the core focus and location of future Brio services.

“The [health] industry has seen a reduction in growth for council leisure providers over recent years, but with regular growth from budget gyms. 

“The reducing growth and need to maintain buildings and ensure they are fit for purpose has put further pressure on many operators such as Brio, to deliver services differently.”