Lincoln councillors are set to review proposals for an interim operator to revive two leisure centres that abruptly closed down last week. The sudden shutdown by Active Nation, a registered charity, has left the users of Yarborough and Birchwood centres in a state of uncertainty. The closures, attributed to the ‘ongoing utility crisis’, have left individuals such as Gemma Summerfield, who had been preparing for a cross-Channel swim in July, without a place to train. The City of Lincoln Council, owners of the buildings, are currently in discussions with potential alternative providers, aiming to get the facilities up and running ASAP. The council believes that the best course of action is to urgently secure an interim operator for up to two years as a replacement for Active Nation. This would allow for the quickest possible reopening of the centres, a move that is in line with the wishes of the council members. The closures have also led to concerns about unpaid wages and prepaid fees, leaving several clubs, including a football academy run by ex-Lincoln City player Dean Walling, without a base. Despite these significant obstacles, the council remains optimistic about the future of the centres.
This story was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.bbc.com.
