Gateshead local election results highlight at-risk leisure centres ahead of final decision on future
Written by Kieran Gary Kelso on 12th May 2023
On the 4th of May, local elections were held across the UK, including Gateshead, where one councillor seat was up for election in each ward.
The results showed that, despite Labour retaining overall control of the council, the Liberal Democrats gained two contested seats from Labour in the wards of Saltwell and Birtley.
Both of these wards contain leisure centres at risk of closure, Gateshead Leisure Centre and Birtley Swimming Centre respectively, due to rising costs.
However, Gateshead Council are looking at opportunities for extra funding to keep these centres open. A final decision is expected in June to determine their future.
