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A second bidder is aiming to take control of a publicly owned and run sports centre.
We can reveal another group is eyeing the Ralston Community Sports Centre.
There has been almost universal opposition by Ralston residents to a planned takeover by Paisley’s Kelburne Hockey Club.
Renfrewshire Leisure has admitted that “another organisation” could be in the process of making a similar community asset transfer bid.
Kelburne Hockey has insists other sports and groups would be able to use the centre if it falls into their hands, thought the main football pitch would become a hockey-only zone.
Kelburne has expressed a “note of interest” in taking over the pavilion and its sports grounds, the first stage towards a formal application.
Meanwhile the longest user of the complex, the sports group known as the Ralston Skills Centre, is calling for a new vision.
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Ralston Skills Centre has operated for 25 years and chairman Norrie Murray said the complex is vital in the area, the only local public space for physical activity.
(Image: Andrew Neil)
The group – which currently has 75 children on its books – say it would fold if Kelburne succeed.
Norrie Murray said: “We understand some £35,000- £40,000 is raised annually through pitch lets but certainly more could be done, especially with the pavilion.
“That’s is why we are calling on Renfrewshire Council, including Renfrewshire Leisure, to work with us, the local community and current users of RCSC to build a vision for public space in Ralston and how it could be best used for community wellbeing through open dialogue underpinned by a passion to make things better.”
Norrie called on a new way of working which could involve a full scale community asset transfer, a key holder arrangement or a “hybrid” asset transfer.
Renfrewshire Leisure leases it from owners Renfrewshire Council and a spokesman said: “The request made by Kelburne Hockey Club is at an early stage. No decisions will be taken on this – or any other potential asset transfer – without public consultation.
“Local authorities and charities such as Renfrewshire Leisure are legally bound to consider asset transfer requests from organisations including sports clubs. Legislation sets out the process which must be followed for every request, which includes community consultation on the applicant’s proposals.
“We understand that Kelburne has begun work on its application and have carried out some consultation with the community council, community sports hub, the local primary school and secondary schools in Renfrewshire.
“We are following a process which, by law, we must. We fully appreciate the importance of the centre to the community and will take this into account in any future decision taken.”
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