Trafford invites public views on George H Carnall future
The council has launched a consultation on the future of the George H Carnall leisure centre in Urmston after rethinking previous plans to turn the site into a £35m arena for the Manchester Giants basketball team.
Under the council’s previous leadership, the leisure centre had been earmarked for redevelopment into a sports arena, a health centre, and 60 affordable homes for key workers including nurses, social workers, teachers, and police officers.
Former leader of the council Cllr Sean Anstee had put forward the proposals, which would have seen existing facilities redeveloped and expanded to provide a 2,000-capacity sports and events facility, alongside a club office, shop, community facilities, and café, for use by the Giants.
An agreement was signed with the Giants to use George H Carnall for their home games on 3 May last year.
However, following a change of leadership following last year’s local elections, and subsequent elections which saw Labour take control of the council, leader Cllr Andrew Western has signalled his intention to reconsult on the plans.
The leisure centre is due to be vacated once the renovation of Urmston leisure centre completes; this is being delivered by ISG and is due to complete in February next year.
Once Urmston is handed over, Trafford Council will cease to operate George H Carnall, and is now seeking public views on how to redevelop the site.
Cllr Western said: “The council is keen to ensure that the views of the local community are heard and that any proposals taken forward for the George H Carnall will have benefitted from the input and engagement of local residents and businesses.
“This will help us to achieve the best possible solution and maximise the potential of the site for the Urmston and nearby community.”
Drop-in consultations will take place on 21 May between 16:00 and 19:00 at George H Carnall, and at Urmston Library on 30 May 2019 between 14:00 and 17:00.
Alternatively, suggestions can be sent to GHCConsultation19@trafford.gov.uk.
I would like to see the following at George H. Carnall sports centre:-
A modern gym with up to date equipment would encourage people of all ages to keep fit.
More rehabilitation and occupational health classes to help people come to terms with life changing health issues.
Outdoor exercise stations in the grounds with bar air skiers, air walkers, parallel bars, chin up bars, etc sponsored by local businesses.
An updated sports surface/lighting that is easy to clean and maintain that can be used by multiple sports in a safe way.
Thank you.
By Keith Walker