Salford libraries, museums and leisure centres in 'critical' position as firm handed £500k bailout

Salford Community Leisure (SCL) is facing dire financial issues, leading to a £500,000 emergency bailout from Salford Council to avoid insolvency. Once boasting reserves of £3.3 million, these are on track to run dry by 2025/26, primarily due to rising staff and maintenance costs. This is SCL’s second emergency funding this year, following an earlier £350,000 support. The financial strain is exacerbated by an unresolved £250,000 insurance claim for Clarendon Leisure Centre, which suffered a fire last year. The council stressed the need for long-term financial stability, with an emphasis on strategic efficiencies and income growth. Mayor Paul Dennett acknowledged the challenges SCL faces, linking them to over a decade of austerity and cuts. Despite the tough situation, customer income from fitness services is reportedly on the rise, suggesting some hope for recovery.

Read the full article at Manchester Evening News