Petition launched to 'save Lincoln's leisure centres' following shock closure

The Liberal Democrats have launched an urgent petition to demand the reopening of Lincoln’s Yarborough and Birchwood leisure centres, which closed abruptly yesterday (Wednesday 2nd April). The closures were announced by Active Nation, the operator managing the facilities on behalf of City of Lincoln Council, who cited the "utility crisis" as the reason for the immediate shutdown.

In response, the Liberal Democrats have initiated a public petition, available at www.tinyurl.com/savelincolnleisure, calling for the leisure centres to be reopened. The move comes as senior opposition councillors release emails revealing that City of Lincoln Council refused to allow public questions about Active Nation’s financial stability, concealing the growing crisis from residents.

Cllr Martin Christopher, Deputy Leader of Lincoln Liberal Democrats, condemned the closures and the council’s handling of the situation: “Members of Active Nation stand to lose hundreds of pounds due to this sudden closure. The Council must act swiftly to reopen the leisure centres or provide full refunds to affected members. We urge all residents and users to sign our petition and demand accountability.”

Cllr Christopher also accused the Labour-led City of Lincoln Council of mismanagement: “Lincoln’s Labour Council has serious questions to answer. When Liberal Democrat councillors raised concerns about Active Nation’s financial difficulties, we faced threats and obstruction. The Labour leadership knew there was a problem, hid it from the public, and allowed this fiasco to unfold. Resignations should be on the table by the end of the day.”

The Liberal Democrats are asking residents to help save these vital public facilities and hold the council accountable. For more information or to sign the petition, visit: www.tinyurl.com/savelincolnleisure.