North Lanarkshire Council has confirmed the closure of eight community facilities by 2025, as part of its effort to streamline operations and invest more effectively in services actually used by local residents.
The affected facilities include Rochsoles Community Centre, Westray Community Centre, Glenmavis Community Centre, Chapelhall Senior Citizens, the Ian Nicolson Centre, Waterloo Community Centre, Birkenshaw Sports Barn, and the Antonine Community Sports Hub. Alongside these closures, the council will also discontinue its mobile library service, which has seen declining usage.
Councillor Jim Logue, Leader of North Lanarkshire Council, stated, "We are committed to providing a diverse range of community, culture, and leisure services but it is vitally important the council invests in facilities...that are well-used by the community." He elaborated on the council's assessment process, which revealed several facilities either being underutilized or repurposed for other functions.
The decision to close these facilities is not without controversy. The SNP opposition group firmly opposed the measure, asserting it negatively impacts community access to leisure services. Councillor Tracy Carragher, the SNP Group leader, criticized Logue's handling of the situation during the council meeting held on December 19, stating, "The appalling behaviour I witnessed... is not befitting of the trust placed in him." She argued this decision goes against previous promises to maintain community leisure facilities and the mobile library service, which was especially popular among those living in rural and isolated areas.
Council Logue defended the decision, noting, "An assessment of usage and condition has identified...that...a small number of facilities...continue to be unused." He added the handful of buildings could be considered for community ownership, and mentioned interest had already been noted. The council plans to assist community groups interested in taking on these facilities, potentially offering capital grants of up to £100,000 through its Community Investment Fund.
A significant part of this closure plan includes the transition of services. The mobile library service, which has suffered from a two-thirds drop in usage, will no longer operate as before. Instead, the council plans to introduce outreach services targeted at the most vulnerable populations, including those residing in sheltered housing.
Although the cuts have raised concerns, the council emphasizes it will continue providing physical library services at 19 locations throughout North Lanarkshire. Notably, Councillor Logue highlighted the upcoming completion of the impressive new extension at Chryston High School slated for Autumn 2026, which is expected to serve as a new community sports hub, replacing the Ian Nicolson Centre.
Under this new framework, the Ian Nicolson Centre will remain operational until the new facilities are ready for use. This phased approach aims to minimize disruption for the community and allow for smoother transitions to alternative sites for the affected community and sports groups.
Among the facilities, the Jerviston Community Centre is currently undergoing application processes to transition to community ownership with the engagement of groups closely associated with the venue.
The debate over these closures signifies larger tensions within the council and highlights differing views on how best to serve the community's needs. While some council members point to the need for efficiency and focusing resources on more frequented services, others argue this creates gaps for communities, particularly those who rely on local amenities.
Community members will need to adapt to these changes as new services are rolled out to replace those being cut. With opposition figures vocalizing their discontent, it remains to be seen how the council will engage with the public moving forward and whether alternative proposals might arise from community advocacy.
