Housing sell off fears for Glenholme
FULL REPORT IN YOUR WEAR VALLEY MERCURY OUT NOW
Durham County Council has denied that it has already decided to sell off land made available by the demolition of Glenholme Leisure Complex in Crook.
However townsfolk are convinced the council wanted to knock the centre down from the start and sell the land to building firms.
John Winter, the former chairman of Glenholme Community Leisure Ltd, whose attempt to take over the leisure centre failed due to staffing issues and a lack of reserves, said: “I have heard all over that the land is intended for housing and that it always has been.
“You only have to look at the evidence, first there is swimming pool and then the bowling club has only been given a one-year lease on its property.”
Mr Winter said the loss of Glenholme would be a bitter blow, adding: “Who would want to buy a house and live with no amenities.”
Cllr Eddie Murphy said he had seen no evidence the site had been earmarked for development but said he questioned the authority’s motives.
However, a council spokesperson said a decision was yet to be made about Glenholme’s future.
“When that decision has been made, and not before, the process of identifying site plans will be undertaken,” she added.