I recently met with officers from West Northamptonshire Council, Cllr James Petter, and representatives from Everyone Active to discuss the proposed changes at Daventry Leisure Centre.
Following the large number of messages I received from residents, clubs and regular users of the centre, I was very clear in raising the strength of local concern directly in that meeting.
I challenged the way these proposals had been handled and made the point that, if the decision was effectively made as part of contract negotiations, then there was never any meaningful opportunity for users to be properly consulted or surveyed beforehand. I made clear that this was both wrong and unfair.
During the meeting, it was acknowledged that, with hindsight, the way the changes were communicated and handled with users could have been done better.
I also pressed for the plans to be paused and renegotiated so that local concerns could be properly considered. Unfortunately, this was not agreed.
I understand that works are due to begin on Monday. While some groups have been able to put alternative arrangements in place, others have sadly had to look elsewhere.
I want to thank everyone who got in touch and took the time to share their concerns with me. The views I took into that meeting came directly from local people who use, value and care about Daventry Leisure Centre.
I will continue to stay in touch with those affected and keep a close eye on the situation.