FEARS The Edge leisure centre is under threat, have been dispelled by the Waverley councillor who oversees the borough’s recreation facilities.

Concerns had been raised by town councillors that the centre’s activities could be curtailed as a cost-cutting exercise to balance the borough council’s budget this year.

But following a detailed review of Waverley’s indoor leisure facilities, portfolio holder for health, wellbeing and culture, councillor Jenny Else gave an assurance The Edge’s services will continue unchanged.

And the member who represents Thursley and Elstead confirmed developing the facility was still a “long term aspiration”.

Members of Waverley executive agreed last Tuesday to adopt a 42-page strategy document to provide a “clear direction” on the priorities for leisure services over the next 10 years.

“The Edge provides well used leisure facilities for the local community and we have no plans to close it,” Mrs Else said after the meeting. “Our new draft indoor leisure facility strategy 2017-2027 provides direction as to how the council and partners will develop facilities over the coming years, to meet our objectives for health and wellbeing.

“We want to make sure our leisure facilities are of the right size, in the right places, have the right equipment and activities, are good quality and serve our communities now and into the future.

“One of the long-term aspirations is how the council will work with local groups in Haslemere to develop the facilities at The Edge to meet current and future needs of the community.’

Introducing the document to executive members, Mrs Else said it represented Waverley’s vision for the future and it would help protect and advance the current facilities to ensure they could accommodate the increased demand as a result of the “significant increase” in new houses planned in the borough.

Waverley hopes to maximise developers’ contributions payable following planning consents, via the new community infrastructure levy, to enhance its leisure centres.

The council is particularly to extend athletics provision in Haslemere and Waverley will explore options on the potential for the site and work with England Athletics on what it can offer the borough.

Neighbouring Woolmer Hill School uses The Edge’s smaller hall for gymnastics, and Waverley will look to increase community use during the daytime.