Stourbridge MP, Margot James, has welcomed the news that the Crystal Leisure Centre will remain open despite previous plans which suggested that it may be closed.

Dudley Council have confirmed that the centre will remain open and will be refurbished to bring it up to modern standard. It is expected that the refurbishment will ensure the future of the centre for the next 20 to 30 years. Margot said:

“I'm delighted to hear that the new Conservative administration at Dudley Council has announced that the Crystal Leisure Centre will be refurbished, ensuring the future of leisure provision within the town centre for the next 20 to 30 years.

“Earlier this year, the previous administration proposed shutting it down, which prompted an outpouring of support from local people. I have been campaigning to ensure that Stourbridge retains a leisure centre and I’m glad that the Leader of Dudley Council, Cllr Patrick Harley, has followed up on the commitment made earlier this year to do just that.

“I’d like to congratulate all those involved with the campaign, including local Councillors Nic Barlow and Steve Clark and thank you to Cllr Patrick Harley and Cllr Ian Kettle, cabinet member responsible for leisure centres, who have all ensured that the voices of the people of Stourbridge have been heard.”