STROUD DISTRICT COUNCIL will be removing funding from three joint-use sports facilities next August.

Since 1997 a partnership has existed between SDC and the governing body of three schools, Maidenhill, Thomas Keble and Rednock.

However, the cost of keeping all three gyms running would equate to a capital investment of £90,000 per year, not including running costs.

The decision to end the partnership was agreed at a Community Services and Licensing Committee meeting on June 27.

Councillor Steve Robinson, chair of Stroud District Council’s community services and licensing committee, said: “The ‘joint use’ centres at the schools operate limited hours, outside of school opening times, which has proved to be a barrier to many potential users over the years.

“Unfortunately, despite attempts to attract more customers and improving the offering at these centres, usage has continued to decline.

“With major improvements to Stratford Park Leisure Centre and Dursley Pool, memberships have shot up at both of these large centres.

“These are open all day, throughout the week and other private gyms and fitness centres have also opened up. On top of that, the equipment will also need to be replaced very soon.

“Like all local councils we are faced with making hard choices. In two years’ time we are due to pay back £549,000 to the government as opposed to receiving a grant from them.

“Consequently, we have taken the reluctant decision to give Maidenhill and Thomas Keble schools a year’s notice that the council will stop managing the centres.”

With the future of all three facilities in somewhat murky territory, with the centres principal source of funding now removed, there has been a certain level of disappointment particularly in Stonehouse.

County Councillor for Stonehouse Lesley Williams has been very vocal, slamming SDC for removing the funding from Maidenhill at a time when exercise is so vital.

She said: “I am deeply concerned about any negative changes to the joint-use centre, it is a vital community resource and provides a place for people of all ages.

“We should be finding ways to keep everyone healthier and fitter, not doing less.

“As this is a district council decision I will be do everything I can to persuade district councillors to push back against this move. I would encourage those who are thinking about this move to think again.”

However, Stroud district councillor for Stonehouse Mattie Ross argued that although the cut backs were disappointing they were necessary in today’s economic climate.

“It is sad that SDC have to withdraw funding from Maidenhill but when you look at what they could cut back on instead I believe the cuts are justified.

“SDC have to make some tough choices based on the lack of funding from central government and in my opinion the Food Bank and Citizens Advice Bureau are more important.”

This decision by SDC follows similar measures which saw Wotton Sports Centre transferred to Sport Wotton Ltd and the handing back of Nailsworth Recreation Centre and Wotton Pool.