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POLITICIANS SLAM HALLS AND PITCHES PRICE HIKE

Rutherglen and Cambuslang SNP representatives have condemned price rises of up to 114% to local facilities.

South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC) fees have risen after a move by South Lanarkshire Council Labour and Lib Dem councillors who run the Council.

In 2022-23, a 75% discount was available on the price for pitch hire for groups – but that discount has been cut after a meeting of the full council.

According to constituents who have contacted Clare Haughey MSP, the price of some football pitches have doubled from £12.50 per hour to £26.75 per hour.

Local SNP councillors, who voted against the discount cuts, and local sports clubs have called for the decision to be reviewed.

Commenting, Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey said:

“These eye watering price rises are nothing short of disgraceful. I’ve heard from many constituents who are concerned that their kids football teams or dance groups will be forced to close given the significant additional costs.

“I’ve written to the Labour administration’s leader to ask what support he will provide to the many sports clubs who may fold due to his party’s decisions.”

Councillor Katy Loudon added:

“During the budget, the Lab/Lib Administration made a song and dance about the extra funds they were giving to SLLC. But any potential benefit to local clubs and teams has been completely wiped out with this astonishing decision. It’s time for the Administration to step up, own their decision, and outline how they are going to protect grassroots sports in its aftermath.”

Cllr Andrea Cowan further added:

“Our SNP opposition group at South Lanarkshire Council proposed giving SLLC £2 million in the coming financial year – but the Labour/Liberal Democrat administration voted this down and opted to provide £1.5 million and to slash the discounts offered to raise further cash.

“This decision lies squarely at the feet of the Labour/Lib Dem administration at South Lanarkshire Council and they must recognise the real anger they have caused locally.”

ENDS