"NO SHOW" FROM LIBERAL DEMOCRAT COUNCILLORS
Mole Valley Conservative Councillors expressed concern at the failure of seven members of the Liberal Democrat Group to attend the special meeting of the Council held last Tuesday, the 3rd June 2008. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the future running of the Leatherhead Leisure Centre. The council decided to award the 15 year contract to a charity, Fusion.
Conservative Councillor, David Sharland, Portfolio Holder for Health, Safety and Wellbeing said:-
"This has been a rigorous process, and we have taken great care in reaching this decision. We had to be sure of Fusion’s ability to maintain and exceed existing levels of quality and customer care. In addition we have secured protection for Leisure Centre staff, and we have an assurance from Fusion that they will be a good employer. In fact throughout the process, Fusion has expressed every interest in keeping existing staff.
We think this is the right way to deliver better services for better value, whilst saving money. I would like to thank the officers of Mole Valley for all their hard work and the staff of the leisure facilities for their patience.
The financial benefits are huge. We should save nearly £350,000 per year but at the same time, Leisure Centre charges will be set jointly by the Council and the successful bidder.
This was never about selling off our Leisure Centre, or giving the income from our refurbishment away. The council will continue to own the land and buildings, but the facility will be run from the outside. The Conservative Administration of Mole Valley has taken a bold decision, but it’s one based on common sense."
Councillor Jean Pearson, the Conservative Leader of the Council said:-
"This was a crucial meeting for all councillors. The Liberal Democrats had expressed strong opposition to any kind of change in the management of the leisure facilities. Now at the moment we came to debate the issue, seven of their members – that’s nearly half their number – did not turn up to debate this crucial issue."
Malcolm Johnson – Communications Officer – Conservative Group of Councillors for Mole Valley
6th June 2008