Image courtesy of Simon Harmer via Active Nation Active Nation, a Community Interest Company (CIC) and registered charity, has ceased trading. This announcement meant that Yarborough and Birchwood centres had to close their doors on 2 April. This unexpected closure prompted the City of Lincoln Council to repossess the buildings at both locations to conduct essential maintenance and ensure the future of community facilities.
The council is now waiting on confirmation of the appointment of an administrator or liquidator for Active Nation. Meanwhile, officials have been scrambling in the short-term to secure a new operator for the troubled leisure centres. This new effort aims to reopen indoor facilities. It seeks to ensure that all outdoor recreation assets are accessible at these locations.
Outdoor facilities at both centres will be opened beginning Saturday. This reopening is a welcome reminder that progress can still be made to restore access to life-enriching recreational facilities to communities large and small.
Simon Walters, the council’s representatives, admitted they understood the importance of such facilities. He stated, “We understand how important these leisure facilities are to our local communities and share everyone’s concern regarding the sudden closures.” Walters emphasized the necessity for young people to have access to such facilities, remarking, “It’s essential that young people have access to these types of facilities for their health and well-being.”
Walters expressed excitement about the upcoming reopening of outdoor facilities, saying, “Our kids can’t wait to get back on the 3G pitches this weekend.” Additionally, he thanked the residents and local clubs for their understanding during such a difficult period. He expressed appreciation to the Lincoln City Foundation for its key role in making possible the reopenings.
The council is still keen to find some way of supporting a reopening in full – and permanent – of both leisure centres. Martin Hickerton, another council member, expressed his feelings as to why these facilities matter. He stated, “We feel a real sense of pride in our city and know what an important role physical activity plays in the lives of many of its residents.”
The phased reopening of outdoor amenities is an important first step. It seeks to reinstate previous full services at the Yarborough and Birchwood community connection centres, vital for social interaction and active recreation in the community. As the council and city move forward from this transformative period, they should treat the health and well-being of Lincoln’s residents as a top priority.
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