LBL aim to close fitness hub
The Bridge Leisure Centre in Kangley Bridge Road, Lower Sydenham, will not open after lock-down and is likely to be closed permanently.
That’s the conclusion from Lewisham’s Mayor and Cabinet meeting on the 13 January when it was decided to open all of the Borough’s Leisure centres when it was safe to do so – except for The Bridge. The meeting agreed the following:
1. That Officers work with the local community to develop a sustainable operating model for the Lewisham Indoor Bowls Centre (opposite The Bridge) while wider consideration of the Bridge Leisure Centre is ongoing.
2. That Officers undertake proactive work with schools and other institutions to increase community access to sports hall facilities and neighbouring leisure facilities to meet demand displaced from the Bridge Leisure Centre.
3. That Officers return to Mayor and Cabinet in mid 2021/22 with an update and proposals for the wider leisure facility offer in the borough and further consideration of The Bridge Leisure Centre.
Read the full council report HERE
Petition to stop closure
Action has already begun to try to save the Centre with a petition demanding that it is kept open. Read the petition and sign it here
The petition reads:
“Stop The Bridge Leisure Centre from closing. It is a much-needed local Leisure Centre supporting the community for fitness and health. There is swimming, gym, squash, badminton, trampoline, aerobics, martial arts, football, cricket and lots of special needs group sessions there, also a children’s before/after and holiday school club.
This centre has been open for over 20 years helping the community maintain healthy fitness and mental health. We all know how exercise is helping us through this pandemic.
The Bridge is a family orientated Leisure Centre with lots of activities families can do together. Also it is used for local schools swimming lessons and sports days.”
