THE bitter row over the closure of Richmond sports centre flared again this week after groups with block bookings were told they have to be out by next month.

They were originally told they could use it until the April 17 closure date, but now have to stop at the beginning of the month.

The closure plan has sparked outrage among users, who the district council has suggested should use privately-run sports halls at Brompton on Swale and Colburn.

The council argues the centre would cost too much to bring up to modern standards. Its closure would save up to £40,000 and help keep the council tax rise down.

Coun Stuart Parsons, the Mayor of Richmond and a district councillor, has already urged the public to write to the Local Government Ombudsman about the issue.

He said he was not surprised by the latest decision.

"The council just doesn't seem to care what local people are saying. It's almost as if we are living in a dictatorship," he said..

"I understand letters have been received by the ombudsman and the Standards Committee for England - and I would encourage others to do the same."

However, Coun John Blackie, leader of the council, said the closure decision was prompted by the public's demand that council tax rises were kept to a minimum.

"Of course, we regret the decision we have had to take," he said "However, we have emphasised all along that new sports centres are on stream for Richmond and, if the public are going to enjoy joint-use sports facilities at Richmond School, we will soon have to make a down-payment. The money has to come from somewhere."

* Letters: page 21