Ryland Centre saved from closure

Bromsgrove School will now be taking over the running of the Ryland Centre from next month subject to the successful completion of all due diligence and legal duties.  

The Worcestershire school will be taking over the community facility in April, ensuring that it remains open for use by the public and local sports teams.

As part of the new arrangement, the Centre will be transferred to Bromsgrove School and they have committed to entering into a Community Use Agreement to continue the current community use.

At the news that the Ryland Centre has been saved from closure, the Headmaster, Mr Michael Punt of Bromsgrove School commented: “The Ryland Centre and Bromsgrove School have worked closely together for many years, and I am absolutely delighted that under Bromsgrove School’s ownership, we shall ensure that the School and the local community continue to enjoy access to this outstanding local facility”.

Councillor Adam Kent, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and Communication at Worcestershire County Council said: “I am delighted that Bromsgrove School will be taking over the Ryland Centre so local schoolchildren and residents will be able to continue to take advantage of the excellent facilities on offer.

“I am also pleased that this Worcestershire-based asset will be managed locally. The County Council continually look out for opportunities where we can increase what the county can offer to our residents, and this is a great example of that.”

Last year, Sandwell Borough Council reached a decision to withdraw all service contracts from Sandwell Leisure Trust in favour of establishing a wholly owned company to take responsibility for delivering leisure services in the future. 

Sandwell Borough Council confirmed to the County Council that The Ryland Centre was not in scope for the new company, and that Sandwell Leisure Trust will no longer be providing leisure services of any kind.

Since hearing of Sandwell Borough Council’s decision, Worcestershire County Council explored a number of options, and entered into discussions with various parties and stakeholders on the future of the Ryland Centre.