Jumping after gym hours set to be cut
The potential part-closure of a Shotts gym has been described as an“outrageous attack” on users’ health.
Margaret McDowell uses the gym every morning as part of a group looking to improve their health, and has shifted an incredible four and a half stone - thanks to frequently using the facility.
Earlier this month, the council revealed a range of savings options for 2018/ 19 which included reducing the opening hours of Shotts Leisure Centre so it does not open in the morning.
Margaret believes the partclosure is simply a stepping stone to closing the facility altogether.
“I’m outraged the council are even considering this,” she said.
“A lot of people use this gym and it means so much to us as a community.
“I’ve lost four and half stone which is largely down to using this gym every morning with our group of friends. It’s changed all of our lives dramatically.
“It’s been great for my mental health. It’s just so important and surely reducing access goes against the council’s plans to help people get healthier.”
Margaret, who runs Margarets Beauty Salon in Shotts, is hoping to persuade the council to keep the opening hours as they are, and has contacted several councillors in a bid to strengthen her case.
When the budget proposals were announced, the council’s chief executive Paul Jukes urged residents to make their voices heard and let the council know their opinions.
“We have identified where we can save over £9 million but simply cannot make the further savings of over £8 million unless we make some real-term changes to how we deliver services and increase income,” said Mr Jukes.
Emma Walker, chief executive of NL Leisure added: “This is only an option to make savings and no decisions have been made. There is a budget consultation already underway and we are actively encouraging people to give their views on the various savings’ options.
“NL Leisure is fully aware of the potential impact that any changes to the services we provide could have on our members. However, in addition to the budget consultation, we are planning to directly consult with our members to gauge a more thorough understanding of how facilities are used and what the needs of specific service users are.”
I’m outraged the council are even considering this. A lot of people use this gym