Councillors rejected using reserve funds for Cefn Fforest Leisure Centre amid closure plans and budget concerns.
Shane Williams called the center “vital.” The council invested in its health suite last year. Now, users might lose access. The council plans to close some leisure centers soon.
Bedwas, Cefn Fforest, and New Tredegar centers may close. They also plan to shut down Pontllanfraith Leisure Centre. This is to cut costs.
Kevin Etheridge wanted the council to fund improvements. He suggested using grants or reserve funds. The aim was to fix maintenance and running costs.
He said Sirhowy Valley might suffer. He noted £13 million for a hub in Caerphilly town. Andrew Whitcombe rejected his ideas. He suggested scrapping a council position.
Whitcombe also dismissed privatizing the center. Some members liked the center, but they didn’t want to use reserve cash. The council says it lacks “rainy day” funds.
Most reserves are for specific projects. These include new schools. Dawn Ingram-Jones asked about the reserves and about the spending: one-off or annual?
Etheridge wanted one-off spending. He hoped for private management later. Chris Morgan stated no privatization plans exist. He said using reserves was wasteful.
Morgan asked what happens after reserves run out. He said money wasn’t endless. The council faces a £47 million gap by 2028.
Whitcombe used his vote to reject the motion. Williams urged people to share views and participate in the public consultation to save the center.
Morgan and Rob Hartshorn also encouraged input. Visit the council website to join the consultation.