Possible pitch fee hike sparks closure worries
Councillor’s concern at proposed 3% increase in costs
Council officers have pledged to work with community sports organisations after moves to increase pitch hire fees were mooted.
They were reacting to concerns from councillors who feared that it could force some clubs to the brink if they are unable to find the funds.
Fees in Perth could be set to reach £540 for 11-a- side hire for adults per season, or £45 per hire. Outside of Perth that would be £412 or £35 respectively.
Lower cost charges are in place for child activities, with under 18 events in Perth to face no additional costs.
The proposals are based on a previously set-out increase which would need ratifying at next month’s council budget meeting, but the environment committee looked over the arrangements and were invited to put forward
Charges for using pitches such as those on Perth’s North Inch could increase suggestions.
Councillor Calum Gillies expressed his concern about the impact on some clubs.
“Some of the clubs won’t be able to afford any increase, it could force them to stop continuing or to disband.
“We are encouraged to push for alternatives to playing on the streets for girls and boys, to get them into active lifestyles, but this seems to be counterproductive. Couldn’t we just drop some of the charges? It’s a concern to me.” Councillor Callum Gillies
The committee was told that the council was running its sports hire at a “significant” loss, but was committed to the provision.
Officer Bruce Reekie said: “Charges such as for football pitch hire are to go up by about 3%, but they are already heavily subsidised and have about £90,000 maintenance costs.
“We have in place options for clubs to pay upfront or in instalments, which makes it easier where possible.
“We will continue to engage with them.”