Pool Hire Fees - Missing in Action

We are writing to update members on the current status of our negotiations regarding pool hire charges. While we remain committed to finding a resolution, the Council’s conduct continues to be a source of significant frustration.

We are grateful to have the strong support of Councillors Finnigan and Brown of the Morley Borough Independent Party, who are backing our fight for fairness. Additionally, we have held a productive meeting with our local MP’s office manager, who is now actively looking into the matter on our behalf.

However, the response from Leeds City Council leadership has been disappointing. Despite CEO Ed Whiting suggesting a meeting, 15 days have passed and we are yet to be offered a date. Regrettably, the Council appears to be ignoring the club’s direct leadership. Rather than engaging with us to resolve the issue, they have chosen to go behind our backs to set up meetings with supporters of our position—a tactic we find unacceptable.

Furthermore, a recent ‘Request For Information’ response from the Council contained figures that we would generously describe as "wrong information." It is our belief—currently being investigated by the Council’s own internal team—that these numbers were simply made up. We await the outcome of that review.

The attitude from the Council and the CEO has been one of complete disdain for the club. We are striving for an agreement, but it takes two parties to make a deal, and the Council is being less than forthcoming. This should be straightforward: the club has been overcharged, and the Council has failed in its legal duties to carry out a "Best Value" assessment (Social Value) and an Equality Impact Assessment.

The facts remain clear: other clubs in the city—including a swimming club—are paying £30 per hour less than us. It is evident that the Council views the residents of Morley as a "cash cow." We hope to provide a positive update shortly, but given the current obstacles, we wouldn't hold your breath.

The Current Situation:

• The Silent Treatment: Leeds City Council CEO Ed Whiting suggested a meeting 15 days ago. We are still waiting for a date.

• Bad Faith Tactics: Instead of meeting with the Club to fix the problem, the Council is going behind our backs to meet with our supporters.

• Questionable Data: A recent information request returned data from the Council that we believe was simply made up. This is now under investigation by their own team.

• The "Cash Cow" of Leeds: It is a fact that other clubs in the city pay £30 per hour less than we do.