Squash players launch campaign to save courts due to close in £6.3m Fareham Leisure Centre redevelopment

The proposal would see the courts go as part of an expansion of the centre costing the council £6.3m.

Members of the league, which was started more than 15 years ago and involved more than 40 residents from across the area, say they had not been consulted on the proposal to change the centre in Park Lane, Fareham.

Ben Richardson, a procurement director and regular player, said: ‘I live a stone’s throw away – no-one came to me, no-one emailed, there was no leaflet through my door.

Members of the squash league, who are campaigning to keep the courts open.

‘I got an email from one of the managers saying they didn’t know we were active.

‘But we hold regular socials here and there’s a noticeboard up about the league – how can you miss that?’

Everyone Active, the leisure company that manages the site, said the decision was made due to ‘declining activity’ – but the centre’s website says the ‘squash courts are also exceptionally popular.’

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‘The changes will encourage wider community participation from an age group that we know is seeing increased levels of obesity, both locally and nationally.’

But squash players feel the proposals were presented to the council as ‘fait accompli’ – missing key details about the centre’s use.

League member Jon Nation said: ‘They use the courts for children’s parties in the summer.

‘And there is sometimes a bouncy castle in the main hall, and the swimming pool is very popular with children.’

Rob Brealey, a financial adviser from central Fareham, said: ‘We could make the argument that public money shouldn’t be propping up competition with other soft play areas.’

Everyone Active has said it is advising squash players to find alternative local facilities, but players say they are left facing increased costs at other clubs.

Rob said: ‘We have been advised to use courts in Abshot and Lee-on-the-Solent – but they are part of private clubs.’

Fareham Leisure Centre currently charges £9.35 off peak and £10.50 at peak times to hire a court for 40 minutes.

The league members have created a petition on the council’s website and plan to speak at the planning committee to decide on the plans, which is expected in May.