Deano’s Pro Soccer Academy owner vows to continue despite closure of Birchwood Leisure Centre in Lincoln
A football academy owner has said they will find a way to carry on after being locked out of their facilities due to the Lincoln leisure centre closures.
Dean Walling, a former Lincoln City FC player, has run Deano’s Pro Soccer Academy for the last 17 years.
The academy coaches 100 children on the elite development programme, with another 35 on a BTEC scholarship.
Mr Walling received the news that Active Nation had collapsed just hours after signing an agreement to continue using Birchwood Leisure Centre’s facilities for three more years.
“I signed the agreement at 3 o’clock, and then at 8 o’clock they told me they were closing,” Mr Walling said.
“Nobody knew it was coming, and we are locked out of the pitch, with all of the equipment inside as well.
“The lads have been up in arms, and parents have been calling to find out if the programme’s carrying on.
“But it’s not the end of the soccer academy – it’s only another beginning.
“The council has been really helpful, and we’re hopeful of getting the keys back soon.
“This week’s been pretty stressful, but we’ve been able to arrange a contingency pitch and classroom until we get back in.”
Active Nation said it was unable to continue trading due to rising energy bills, and announced it would stop trading last week.
A statement by the company said: “Due to the ongoing utility crisis and the challenges it has created, Active Nation has made the difficult decision to close Yarborough Leisure Centre and the Birchwood Leisure Centre, effective Wednesday, April 2.
“After discussion with the City of Lincoln Council, we regret to inform you that no alternative providers have been identified for transferring services, which means the centres will remain closed for the foreseeable future.
“We are deeply disappointed by this outcome and would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to all Lincoln residents for your support since 2007. It has been an honour to serve this community, and we are truly grateful for the trust and loyalty you have shown us over the years.”
The council says it has been approached by several companies interested in taking the leisure centres on, and will be holding an emergency meeting next week to discuss plans.
