Rutland County Councils Decision to close Catmose Sports Centre here in Oakham, Sparks Outrage and Calls to Action on Social Media
Since 2011, a sense of unease has grown in Oakham as community spaces once housed at Catmose College have dwindled. Now, with the final closure of Catmose Sports Centre, residents fear the heart of their community has been ripped away, by Rutland County Council and Rutland and District School's Federation (Catmose College)
Following Rutland County Council's decision to close Catmose Sports Centre, a wave of anger and disappointment has flooded social media.
Members of the Catmose Sports Centre community have taken to Facebook to express their outrage at the council's decision and the reported behaviour of some councillors.
There were calls for Accountability, Nic Byrne, a member, pointed followers to the council's conduct complaint page, urging those who witnessed breaches of the code to file official complaints. Another member, Chris Grint, echoed this sentiment, criticising the "smirking and smiling" of some councillors during the public meeting.
A Catmose Sports employee expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community. Many members shared similar sentiments, thanking the staff for their dedication and highlighting the positive impact the centre had on their lives.
Many have concerns for the future, Janice Bannister lamented the negative impact the closure will have on the health and well-being of the community. Dan Steele questioned the council's plan to address the needs of residents seeking fitness and childcare options. Members like Rhian Williams and Paul Manning expressed frustration at the lack of alternatives for leisure activities.
Many are disappointment in the process, Paul Manning criticised the conduct of the meeting itself, alleging a bias against those who supported the centre. He also highlighted the reported contradiction between a councillor advocating for exercise and their vote in favour of closure.
The overall sentiment was one of disappointment and anger. Nic Byrne of the Support Catmose Sports Centre Group promised further information but concluded by expressing outrage over the reported treatment of staff.
Byrne also challenged the council leader's claims regarding GP referrals at the centre, highlighting concerns about the council's due diligence process.
The social media response paints a picture of a community deeply affected by the Catmose Sports Centre closure. The outpouring of support for staff and criticism of the council suggest a desire for accountability and a potential fight to keep the centre open. There was a call for a protest outside MP Alicia Kearns new office here in Oakham.
