A leisure centre has been saved from closure after thousands of people joined a campaign to stop it shutting its doors.
Uckfield Leisure Centre had been earmarked for closure in plans which would leave users facing a half hour drive for alternative services.
After demonstrations and a public consultation, the council has now backtracked on plans to potentially close the site and instead are close to agreeing a new lease.
Wealden District Councillor Daniel Manvell, who spearheaded the campaign to save the site, said: “Uckfield had been left feeling abandoned by the thought that our leisure centre could be closed, which would have stopped thousands of children’s swimming lesson.
“I was elected in part by residents who were horrified by this idea, adding further misery at an already difficult time for many people.
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“I am delighted that we have finally been listened to and I will now be working to secure the investment we need in our youth and leisure facilities.
“I think many people will agree that thirteen devastating years of Conservative Party cuts and austerity will shortly come to an end.”
A Freedom of Information request uncovered that around 10,000 children’s swimming lessons take place at the leisure centre’s pool each year.
Following the campaign and a public consultation where over 3,000 shared their views, East Sussex County Council and Wealden District Council have now reversed their decision.
A Wealden Council spokeswoman said: “A lease has not yet been signed, neither has any contract been entered into with Freedom Leisure to run the service.
“However, discussions have been ongoing for some time and are well advanced regarding the future of Uckfield Leisure Centre.
“The relevant East Sussex County Council Lead Member report was published on Tuesday ahead of their meeting on 11 July and a report to our cabinet meeting on 12 July has been published on our website.
“At this stage these reports are officer recommendations, with final decisions on the 11 and 12 July.”
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