West Dunbartonshire Council closes Dalmuir Golf Club due to funding issues and declining membership, sparking community backlash.
West Dunbartonshire Council leads the area and faces a £7.7 million funding gap. They say they can’t fund the golf course now, as membership has been shrinking lately.
The council spent £145,000 on the course last year, which is about £805 for each member. Councillors looked at ways to save it, thinking about raising fees or closing it.
SNP councillors were against these ideas, not wanting to raise fees or close the course. Labour’s choice to close it means job losses, affecting five council staff.
The SNP group said they were very upset, feeling it’s a key community spot. It helps folks stay active and social, boosting mental and physical health.
Sophie Traynor is a councillor there, calling the course a vital asset. She mentioned support from sports figures, showing how important it is. Gordon Scanlan, the SNP group leader, feels Labour moved too fast. Discussions could have happened while it stayed open.
Community members reacted online, with one saying closing it was wrong for the men who love to play golf on their days off. Someone else was disgusted by the news.
A council spokeswoman spoke about the issue, stating membership kept dropping despite efforts. They must protect basic services like education and housing because of the funding gap.