Campaign launched to save Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre at Yeadon Tarn from Leeds Council cuts

Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre (LSAC) faces permanent closure under a cost saving proposal by Active Leeds, which is run by Leeds City Council.

The council faces a £119m budget shortfall for 2021/22, due partly to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on council services and revenue collection.

LSAC provides a large array of watersports and outdoor activities including canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and sailing, as well as archery, an orienteering course, off site climbing, an indoor caving experience, off road and mountain biking, and a park with classroom space.

It is an inclusive centre which caters to people with disabilities.

The centre, which has been closed since the first lockdown, is also a Royal Yachting Association training centre and offers qualifications awarded by British Canoeing and British Rowing.

A petition has been created to oppose the plans, which will shortly be going out to a six-week consultation process.

Bookings are still being taken for next year in anticipation of lockdown being lifted.

Jon Dakeyne, who created it, wrote: "We are asking for your support to challenge the closure of this professionally run first rate facility open to all which offers safe qualified outdoor activity instruction for a wide range of sports and experiences.

"It is a fully inclusive facility catering for all people and has appropriate adjusted equipment where possible so all can experience any activity."

People who have signed the petition have called on the council to think again.