THE uncertain future of the leisure facilities at Five Acres, near Coleford, have been further muddled by a district council statement recognising the “huge potential” of the site, but seemingly offering nothing of substance for years to come.

The axe is due to fall on the leisure centre from November 1 and follows a statement from the site owners, Homes England.

The threat to close the centre has previously angered and frustrated local residents, among them Paralympic star Andy Lewis who said the move flew in the face of Government policy on fitness and health.

The closure is part of the fallout from the decision to build a new college campus at Cinderford, with Glouces tershire College vacating Five Acres this summer for the new Northern Quarter facility.

In a statement, the district council says that talks have been going on with Homes England for a number of years.

This had included securing access to Five Acres following the closure of the college there at the end of the academic year.

But, it now seems, that despite years of talking and planning there has now been a change of direction.

The council has confirmed: “Regrettably, we have received a recent communication from Homes England indicating that the site will not be available for access beyond November 1, 2018.

“We are continuing to communicate with Homes England to understand the position and what can be done to extend access beyond this date, whilst we conclude other work streams related to this and other sites.”

The council says members recognise the benefits of sport and leisure facilities and are working with a community focus group to understand the impact of the leisure centre closure.

Further, the statement says: “We have commissioned a company to look at leisure provision across the district … so we can make an informed and accurate decision of the future of the Five Acres site within the context of leisure provision for the whole district.”

They add that they recognise the huge potential of the Five Acres site and would continue to work to achieve a positive, innovative and sustainable outcome.