Tory MSPs and councillors in Lanarkshire have welcomed a consultation over the proposed change of usage at Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility.
Athletics clubs have raised concerns over the plans to scale back the athletics track to three lanes and reduce the track length to just 50m. This has caused an outcry from the athletics community and their governing body Scottish Athletics.
An independent consultation is now underway, which will run until the end of the month.
Tory MSPs Graham Simpson and Margaret Mitchell, along with councillor Meghan Gallacher say that whilst they welcome the move to consult, it should have been done sooner to give the Lanarkshire athletics clubs involved more time to make a case for retention of the track.
Mr Simpson, who held a meeting with local clubs and Scottish Athletics last week (Monday 30th January), along with Brian Whittle MSP, Conservative Health Education, Lifestyle and Sport spokesman, said: “It’s good that finally there is a consultation underway, although I would rather that it had been organised long before now.
“The last few weeks have seen many accusations flying around and a lot of heated debate. We really should never be in a situation where we pit sport against sport.
“NL Leisure’s decision to hold the consultation now gives the athletics clubs time to make a business case as to how they can better use the facilities and generate more income to safeguard the running track.
“The meeting I arranged with the athletics coaches threw up some very good ideas, including creating a run, jumps and throw class for infants during the day and also looking into offering their coaching skills to other sports based in the hall for conditioning work on the track.
“The Scottish Government also needs to think about how important they rate athletics and decide how they can support clubs to use scarce facilities, such as Ravenscraig.
“The consultation will include meetings with several athletics clubs. There will also be an online survey for parents and users of other sports at Ravenscraig to have their say.
“It’s important that everyone takes time to make their views known before the findings are presented to NL Leisure at the start of next month.”
Cllr Gallacher, leader of the Conservative Group on North Lanarkshire Council, added: “I am pleased that a consultation has been agreed, it is now imperative that all those with a vested interest make sure they take time to submit their views.
“Taking part in sporting activities is important for people’s health and well-being, and I call on the Scottish Government to do more for the people of North Lanarkshire.”