Catmose Sports Centre, Oakham, Rutland to Close Its Doors on May 31st 2024
Catmose Sports Centre, a popular leisure facility in Oakham, will cease operations on Friday, May 31st, 2024. This follows the conclusion of Rutland County Council's contract with Stevenage Leisure Limited (SLL).
The closure signifies the end of public access to the sports centre. However, Catmose College, the owner of the building, is exploring the possibility of offering continued access for community groups and sports clubs beyond the closure date.
In a statement, Catmose College acknowledged the council's decision not to renew the contract due to financial constraints. The college emphasised that it cannot use its public funding, designated for education, to subsidise community sports activities.
The college is currently assessing the feasibility of taking over the facilities. Factors being considered include staffing costs, utilities, insurance, equipment maintenance, and potential income generation.
Catmose College cannot guarantee a future community offer, but they haven't ruled it out either. Current users are advised to make alternative arrangements as public access will cease after May 31st.
An update on the college's decision will be provided once a clear path forward is established. Clubs and groups seeking information on alternative sports facilities can contact activerutland@rutland.gov.uk
This closure comes despite an optional extension offered to SLL in February 2023, which could have prolonged their contract until March 2025. However, SLL declined to extend beyond May 31st, 2024.
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