Local community helps secure the future of Cleobury Mortimer Sports and Fitness Centre

Following a successful negotiation with Teme Leisure, an agreement has been reached to extend the operation of the facility beyond the original March 2026 deadline. This crucial extension ensures the centre remains fully operational until the commencement of a new countywide leisure contract in August 2027, providing much-needed stability for the local schools and community groups that depend on the site.

The breakthrough is being hailed as a testament to the power of local advocacy. The Friends of Cleobury Sports and Fitness Centre led an exhaustive fundraising campaign that proved instrumental in bridging the financial gap. While Cleobury Mortimer Town Council has bolstered this effort by including a financial safety net within its precept, officials have reiterated that grassroots fundraising remains the primary engine keeping the doors open.

The Lib Dem leader of Shropshire Council, Heather Kidd, said: "We are determined that despite the financial pressures at Shropshire Council, we are here to help, we will do everything we can to protect the things that are precious to our residents and communities".

Councillor James Owen, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for leisure, said: “The passion and dedication shown by the Friends of Cleobury Sports Centre has been extraordinary. Their efforts have made a real difference in safeguarding this vital community asset.

“This has been a genuine partnership approach, giving much‑needed clarity and confidence as we move towards the new leisure contract in 2027.”

Sian Powell, from the Friends of Cleobury Mortimer Sports and Fitness Centre, added: “I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to the whole community and our fantastic local businesses for their unwavering support. Your generosity has been vital to raise the funds needed to keep the sports centre open. We are truly grateful for the strength of community spirt in Cleobury and we look forward to continuing working together to ensure this service is here to benefit the community going forward.”

Lee Hassan, general manager of Teme Leisure, echoed these sentiments, saying, “We are delighted that tripartite funding has been agreed between The Friends, Cleobury Town Council and Teme Leisure to keep the doors firmly open of this vital community asset. Facilities like these are the lifeline to our communities, and we thank Shropshire Council for its continued support for leisure provision in the South of the county.”