By Katherine Turner
West Leeds bowling greens face a battle to stay afloat after proposed council cuts.
Leeds City Council initially proposed to close 30 bowling greens in a bid to save £140,000 per year. There was a public outcry and, after a consultation, they agreed to maintain the greens until the end of this summer season.
A council report stated that the £140,000 saving would now need to be spread over two financial years. Season ticket prices are proposed to double and clubs must have at least 20 adult, paying members by the end of 2025. They will also become responsible for paying their full electricity costs from the 2025/26 season and full water costs from the season after.
This is a huge change and many clubs may struggle to survive.
WLD spoke to Western Flatts Bowling Green in Wortley to see how they are coping with these sweeping changes.
Secretary Dean Lucas explained that they were devastated when the council announced the cuts: “Our green is over 100 years old and is a national heritage. People of all ages, genders and disabilities can gather here and form friendships.”
Their pavilion is relatively new at 30 years old and is the only bowling green in Leeds with facilities that enable them to be open all year round.
Dean was keen to highlight how the bowling green is a lifeline for many people, they want to “ensure that people are not left alone, especially in the winter months.”
With the increase in costs the club is having to come up with new ways to raise funds to keep them afloat. There is a fun day on Sunday, 24 August at 11am, including raffles, tombolas, stalls, a BBQ and a chance to have a try bowling.
On Sunday 25 May and Monday 26 May a “Big Bowls Bank Holiday Weekend Extravaganza” will be held, more information will be available on their website.
Every Saturday the club will be open and selling food and hot drinks and they will also be running weekly football cards and raffles.
On Good Friday, 18 April a free afternoon tea will be available from 1pm until 3pm as a thank you for those who have supported the club and a chance to try bowling will be available.
With bowling greens across the West Leeds area including Armley Park, Bramley Park, Horsforth, Westroyd Park in Farsley, New Farnley Park, Western Flatts Cliff Park, and Tyersal Park, local support is needed more than ever.
Dean explained how people can get behind their club: “For us to survive we need new members, any age or experience, please come and join us. We are a small club with a big heart, we will help you every step of the way.”
With the offer of subsidised green fees, (a year’s membership, including winter bowling will cost £50), it is clear that this club has the fight it takes to survive.
If you would like any more information, visit their Facebook page or contact Ann Lucas, Treasurer, by emailing annlucas2927@gmail.com