Leeds City Council considers cutting bowling greens amid budget constraints, sparking community petitions and concerns
They’ve pinpointed 30 greens that might go, including several in West Leeds like Armley Park and Bramley Park. A public consultation is underway, and folks are worried.
The council has two options: either close 24 greens and keep a few hubs for multiple clubs or raise fees for bowlers to cover costs. Councillor Mohammed Rafique mentioned that Leeds is not alone in this struggle; many councils are in the same boat.
He urged people to share their thoughts during the consultation. The council says bowling has dropped in popularity by 39% since 2014, and they’re spending over £280 per bowler, which is a lot.
Many greens have fewer than 30 members, and the council believes they have too many greens for the current demand. The proposed closures have already sparked a backlash in West Leeds.
A petition against the closure of the Western Flatts Cliff Park bowling green has gained traction. Kirsty McCarthy, who started it, emphasized that the club is more than just a place to bowl; it’s a social hub for many.
Residents like Gordon Stalker shared how important the club is for their social lives, especially for older folks. Jenny Meehan from Friends of Armley and Gotts Park expressed sadness over the potential loss, as they’ve been working to make bowling more accessible.
A city-wide petition has already gathered over 1,100 signatures in just a day. Supporters argue that closing these greens would harm community connections and well-being.
Alan Mazurka from Littlemoor Sports and Social Club pointed out that bowling is a vital part of life for many, and the proposed hubs wouldn’t work for leagues.
Consultation sessions are scheduled for community input, and the council is also considering other budget cuts, including job losses and service reductions. They need to save a whopping £106.4 million to avoid bankruptcy.
This isn’t the first time bowling greens have been on the chopping block; previous proposals faced backlash too. The community is rallying to protect their beloved greens and the social fabric they support.
