We are deeply disappointed that, despite a close vote, the DUP and UUP have chosen to maintain the current two-tier leisure model - keeping Ards leisure services in-house while outsourcing those in North Down.
While we welcome the decision to keep Ards Leisure public, it is unfair, shortsighted, and economically unsound that North Down’s Aurora and Queens Leisure Complex continue to be outsourced.
“Residents and staff in North Down are clearly being treated as second-class,” said Councillor Kendall. “It is unacceptable that the Council supports this two-tier system.”
Cllr Barry McKee added:
“Ards residents benefit from publicly-run leisure, but Holywood and Bangor are stuck with outsourced services lacking transparency and accountability. Tonight was a missed chance to ensure fairness across the Borough. The Green Party has opposed leisure outsourcing from the start and will keep fighting for services that are fair, transparent, and fully public.”
Cllr Lauren Kendall said:
“Leisure services are essential for health, wellbeing, and community connection. By refusing to bring all services in-house, the Council lets inequality persist for Holywood and Bangor residents, many of whom rely on affordable, accessible public leisure.”
The Green Party will continue campaigning for a fully in-house, publicly accountable leisure service that ends the two-tier system and ensures equal standards for all.
ENDS