Squash players shocked, as Northcroft Leisure Centre courts set to be removed

Squash players in Newbury have been left despondent at the decision to close and remove the squash courts at Northcroft Leisure Centre.

As part of the £4.6m refurbishment of the facility, the courts are set to be removed in September, leaving local players without access.

James Kadzidlo, who runs the local squash league, was shocked at the news.

“There was no consultation with us, just that there will be no courts available from September 9 this year”, he said.

“I replied instantly to express my shock.

“I asked if there was any way we could appeal this closure.

“They just replied with ‘no’.”

“We’ve already lost courts at Greenacres and David Lloyd, and as this is the only council-funded centre in Newbury.

“We just cannot believe they will no longer offer players squash.

“We’re just left with Nuffield, and their courts are full membership only.

“It's a 250 per cent increase in cost to play just one game a week at Nuffield compared to Northcroft.

“Over a year it’s an extra £670 per person.”

Another local player, Tom Westerman, wrote to West Berkshire Council to express his concerns and raise multiple points of contention.

Mr Westerman does “not believe the closure of the squash courts was communicated sufficiently” during the planning process and suggested “a comprehensive assessment to determine if the courts truly are surplus to requirements”.

Nigel Foot of West Berkshire Council responded, stating: “The refurbishment at Northcroft Leisure Centre is being undertaken by Everyone Active, who operate Northcroft Leisure Centre on behalf of West Berkshire Council.”

“There are no plans to increase the footprint of the building and so this means significant alterations of the internal space will be needed.”

He also stated: “I have requested figures for the usage of the squash courts and a statement from Everyone Active to understand their planning.”

Squash, which will make its Olympic debut in Los Angeles in 2028, is undergoing a groundswell of popularity in Britain, but this development will leave local players with no council funded courts to play on.

In the Newbury area in particular, it's a growing sport.

“We have players of all abilities,” Mr Kadzidlo said.

“The club nights are social events. We all coach each other. It’s very friendly.

“It all builds into a sense of belonging. We now have over 30 members.

“It would be a shame to see it die out.”