The closure of a leisure centre has been described as a “huge loss” to the community. 

Spectrum Leisure Centre in Willington, County Durham, closed indefinitely in August amid uncertainty around its future. 

The company in charge of the site was issued a winding-up order by the High Court in August ahead of the closure. 

SLAM Community Development Trust, a private operator, announced the closure on August 20 “due to circumstances currently beyond our control with regard to both internal and external issues”. 

The statement added: “We will keep you up to date with developments as they happen and hopefully move forward to fully resolve all the issues we currently have. 

“I know this will be a shock to our customers but with hope, you will bear with us in the short term. Thank you for your continued support from us here at Spectrum.”

However, residents have yet to receive any updates about the site. 

Local county councillor Fraser Tinsley said a permanent closure of the leisure centre would be a “huge loss” to the community and is working to find a solution. 

However, he said the condition of the building has rapidly declined in recent years. 

“It’s a shame,” he said. “It’s a facility that’s been here for 40 years and it was a major part of the town.

“I don’t foresee anyone coming forward and taking on the facility because of the condition of the building. It’s going to need a lot of investment to get it up and running.”

Spectrum Leisure Centre in Willington, County Durham.Spectrum Leisure Centre in Willington, County Durham. (Image: Paul Norris)

The leisure centre was opened in 1982 by the Wear Valley District Council and previously included a dry ski slope, which was ceremoniously opened by Franz Klammer - the then-reigning downhill world champion. 

A BMX track was later built after the site was saved from closure by Ian and Alison Hirst, who formed the SLAM Community Development Trust.

The freehold ownership of the site was reportedly transferred by SLAM to WSS Property Limited several years ago, however, the company’s control of the site is unclear. 

Recommended reading: 

Subscribe to The Northern Echo now.

Cllr Tinsley added: “It’s now just a case of what other options are there for residents in the area. There are a lot more gyms opening up and it seems Willington is no longer a sustainable facility financially.”

Reacting to the news, Rachael Williamson said: “This is so sad for Willington to lose something else. I agree they needed funding or something to update some of their equipment but I’ve always thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the classes there on an evening. Not only do we lose the gym but the hall and facilities for kids parties and events like Halloween and Christmas.”

The SLAM Community Development Trust was contacted for comment.