Dear all,
The unexpected closure of Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, alongside Lullingstone Park Golf Course, has been really difficult for our community. So, first, and most importantly, I want to assure you all that the leisure centre will reopen and reopen soon. Sevenoaks District Council has plans in place to bring in a new operator and they are working hard to ensure this happens – hopefully within a matter of weeks with the help and co-operation of all parties involved.
However, in the meantime, we need to make sure that those who have been affected by the closure are helped. From the start I have made strong representation that arrangements are made to enable at least some facilities elsewhere to be used by Sencio members, and I am grateful to Everyone Active (who operate the council’s Swanley White Oak Leisure Centre) who have offered Sencio gym members free access to any of their gyms for up to four weeks, as well as options for relocation to schools and clubs who were already using the leisure centre. Sevenoaks District Council have also made every effort to engage with as many providers as possible to ensure arrangements can be put in place elsewhere.
Offers of help have also been made by The Stag, and Sevenoaks Town Council, who although having limited regular availability at the Bat & Ball Centre due to its popularity, are seeing if they can help cover some displaced Sencio activities. West Heath School and Sevenoaks School have been very generous with their support for local primary schools and the Sevenoaks Swimming Club. And conversations are ongoing about what more Sevenoaks School can offer to local fitness groups.
A huge thanks to all those who have come forward. It really does mean so much to see our community once again coming together. All offers of help are truly appreciated, so if you think you could get involved, please do not hesitate to contact my office or contact Sevenoaks District Council directly at [email protected].
I will continue to keep you all updated on my Facebook page as soon as I have further information. And, if you have any questions or concerns about the closures, please do email me at [email protected]. I will come back to you as soon as I can.
Laura Trott
MP for Sevenoaks and Swanley
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