Sports clubs, teams and community groups will be forced to relocate as they are being kicked out of a popular sports hall. 

Maldon Council and Places Leisure have confirmed that the main hall at Blackwater Leisure Centre in Maldon will be closed to various groups as it becomes a "state-of-the-art" gym and climbing wall centre.

The council says it's part of a £6 million investment across the leisure sites and centres.

The hall is currently used for various sports, including badminton, indoor football, and basketball.

The centre also has a large pool with water flumes and a weights area with various machines and free weights. 

Gary Davies, a keen badminton player, has launched a petition and fears the impact the closure will have on the community and various groups. 

He said: "The announcement of the impending closure of the sports hall has sent shockwaves through our community.

"Personally, playing badminton there has been fundamental to maintaining my health and well-being, and I know this sentiment resonates with many others.

"The sports hall is more than just a building; it's a vibrant hub for over 50 badminton players, providing not just a venue for exercise, but a place for socialising and community bonding.

"It's also a valued venue for children's pre-school football, giving our kids a healthy start while fostering a love for sports.

"The closure also jeopardises the future of karate classes, children's parties, and a host of other group activities that are fundamental to our community's fabric.

"The importance of this facility cannot be overstated. For many, it is the only accessible venue for these activities within Maldon.

"There is simply nowhere else local, or even in the broader district, offering the same facilities.

"With its closure, countless individuals, including the young and elderly, will lose access to vital recreational activities that promote fitness and community cohesion."

In a joint statement, Maldon Council and Places Leisure said: "In December 2024, Maldon Council awarded Places Leisure a 20-year contract for the operation and management of Blackwater Leisure Centre, Dengie Hundred Sports Centre and the Splash Park in Promenade Park.

"As part of the new contract, Places Leisure has committed to investing £6 million across the sites.

"The investment will be completed in phases over the next 18 months, with the first phase at Blackwater Leisure Centre due to begin in August 2025.

"This first phase will result in the closure of the main sports hall to allow for major work to be completed to turn the current space into a state-of-the-art gym and clip and climb facility.

"Unfortunately, this will mean regular users of the hall will no longer be able to use the space.

"We are sorry for the disruption this may cause. We are committed to working closely with users of the hall, including regular groups and clubs, to provide temporary and permanent alternative options.

"All customers impacted have been contacted individually and encouraged to contact  [email protected].

"We will arrange meetings with the impacted groups to discuss relocation options."