Leeds Council Unveils New Bowling Green Plans to Secure Future

Leeds wants to secure crown green bowling’s future. The council faces budget issues impacting all services. They considered reducing bowling greens from 61 to 31, which would save about £140,000 annually, given that maintenance costs are currently £360,000 per year.

Following consultation with the bowling community, the council revised their plans, hoping to keep more greens open. They aim to achieve savings and generate more income for the council. To that end, clubs must attract new players to boost participation.

In 2024/25, 47 clubs had 1,184 adult season ticket holders. The council will maintain greens until the end of summer 2025. New plans involve raising ticket prices, alongside requirements for clubs to recruit more members.

Adult full-year season tickets will increase to £90, up from £45, starting April 2025. Furthermore, clubs need 20 adult season ticket holders per green by September. Revenue shortfalls must be covered by the clubs. By September 2028, clubs must have 26 ticket holders per green.

Clubs will also be responsible for their own electricity and water bills, costs currently covered mostly by the council. Some clubs could operate independently from the council through a community asset transfer. Clubs can meet with the Leeds council to discuss these proposed changes this month. A final decision on the plan will be made after March 20.

The £90 season ticket equates to £1.73 weekly if someone bowls all year, or £3.46 each week of summer season, and clubs can offer payment plans. In January’s survey, 48% of respondents indicated they would pay between £50 and £99, while 35% would pay over £100 and 15% were willing to pay over £150.

The consultation revealed potential issues. If 2024 figures repeat, 14 clubs will miss targets, and the ’20 per green’ minimum won’t likely be met. Clubs can encourage per-session players to purchase season passes to help meet the target.

Clubs have suggested sponsorships and grants to cover revenue shortfalls, plus utility bills. Currently, most clubs pay just £50 annually toward utilities, with Leeds Council covering the remaining bill. The total bill could range from £40,000 to £60,000 this year. Clubs will pay all electricity costs from 2025/26 and all water costs from 2026/27 onwards.