Newry Leisure Centre users set to protest over state of facility

The Reporter told this week of how the can has been kicked down the road, once again, for the re-opening of city’s swimming pool. It was originally planned to re-open in January, but it now appears that the works won’t be finished until then with a phased opening thereafter.

Meanwhile the Reporter has been contacted by Newry Leisure Centre user who feels he is not getting value for money as many of the pieces of gym equipment are out of order.

As many as 11 pieces of equipment have been out of use, some for as long as three months.

Now, centre users, annoyed at the state of the facilities, are planning on turning up at the centre to protest at 6pm this Monday, December 9.

For their part, in relation to the swimming pool re-opening delays, a council spokesperson said: “The extensive programme of works to fully refurbish Newry Leisure Centre pool hall and village change areas is continuing. It is anticipated that the works will be completed in January, with the pool reopening in a phased approach again to the public.”

And in relation to the out-of-order equipment, they added: “The Council is aware that several pieces of gym equipment at Newry Leisure Centre are temporarily out of order and awaiting parts for repair.

"Maintaining high levels of service is a priority and necessary parts were ordered in advance, but delays in the delivery of these parts have affected the timely completion.

“Servicing and repairing ongoing, and 40% of the equipment referred to in the enquiry has already been repaired. The Council is working closely with its suppliers to expedite the process and ensure all equipment is fully operational as soon as possible.

"We appreciate the understanding of gym users during times of necessary maintenance and repairs.”