27/01/2024
Hello all, this is Luis,
some of you might know me as "the guy that runs the paddle sport coaching club at the riverside". I am here asking for a bit of help, if possible!
After over 15 years being at the riverside providing sport and social opportunities for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds etc... I have now been served notice that the container placed at the back of the former Leisure Center has to be removed immediately. I am devastated, I do not understand the sudden urgency, am also crossed of the lack of flexibility and vision form our governing Local Authority.
I AM ASKING IF ANY BUSINESS OR PARTICULARS WOULD BE ABLE TO OFFER ME A NEW HOME TO PLACE A 20 Foot Container - It will need to be accessible normally within working hours so the equipment inside (paddle sports associated equipment - kayaks, canoes , paddle boards , paddles helmets etc ) can be loaded to a vehicle or trailer and transported to and from the riverside.
This move is not ideal and is creating havoc and distress, but at this moment is the only option due to the failed intentions from the LA to negotiate and allow the container to remain at its current place, at least until there is a firm decision of what their plans are for the former leisure centre site. Not to mention it feels also quite questionable equity and wisdom.
The reasons of why they want the container to be moved from there this urgently remain unclear, they have failed to elicit reasons for it beyond "they don't want it there and there is no agreement", despite several communications with the LA's lawyer he has never shone light on what other reasons, department or person is demanding this to be enforced.
Currently all they are saying is that there is no agreement - but on the other hand and historically we have been dealing and responsible of business rates, receiving letters for as long as I can remember,, YES we have accessed small business grant relief, but they are saying that receiving a bill for business tax over the years does not demonstrate that there is an agreement to have the container there- Sorry, am puzzled about that too.
Other avenues had been explored and I have not been able to secure yet any other place to re-home this container. Moving it will inevitably have a financial impact too and a logistical nightmare and added costs for future activities. The LA has turned the blind eye to the number of local and social benefits and well being outcomes we provided over the years i.e this last summer 2023 we managed to secure external funding to provide a summer school holiday programme of 4 days per week full of activities to include outdoor learning, archery, climbing, paddle sports, etc FREE for participants ( zero cost to participants) for 25 people per day and to include free hot food provided every day 9-330.
Nevertheless and Despite many attempts to indicate our commitment to the local community and our devoted integrating and inclusiveness approach the longevity of the club and the invaluable service we provide here, they are not willing to accept or recognise any of that and are treating us as if we and our values and outcomes aren't worth any consideration. Therefore I am also asking if there is any present or past users, supporters or beneficiaries that could help with any legal advice and or even to exert public pressure about this whole atrocious situation
I am asking for help too if there is anyone able to help me dispute this further so we can maintain this setting and continue to deliver this great activity in our local village?
I am not sure how far will go and or if it possible to request a sign of a petition to see if that would help the case and force the LA to reconsider this situation, therefore and for the first time, I decided to create a petition through change.org and so , and if you conform with the idea, I would be grateful if you could sign it too. Please see and follow the link below.
https://chng.it/7vXqcSvfDp
Thank you in advance for your time to read this and for all your help!
Luis (LASP)
This campaign needs you now
Preserve the Paddle Sports Container Location in Morpeth Town
