Cultural Centres and Sporting Facilities: North West Durham

Durham County Council's 'Leisure Transformation' plan has neglected North West Durham, leading to the closure of swimming pools and underinvestment in leisure centres. The situation is unacceptable according to 95% of survey respondents. Crook and Consett have faced significant setbacks due to poor management by the Labour council. The county hall project and other developments raise concerns over priorities and resource allocation. North West Durham needs proper capital support for local facilities and community groups, which are crucial for mental health and wellbeing.

Expressed gratitude for the debate initiated by Mr Holden, acknowledging the importance of sport and physical activity in combating the pandemic. He highlighted the role of local authority leisure centres and swimming facilities, emphasising their social value and health benefits. The MP praised Sport England's investment in his constituency and mentioned the Culture Recovery Fund supporting arts and culture projects. Additionally, he outlined government initiatives such as the £100 million support fund for local authority leisure centres and Sport England’s £50 million additional funding to help grassroots sports clubs and organisations affected by the pandemic.