Bowling greens shut to reduce costs

PARKS bosses have announced plans to close nine bowling greens as part of a cost-cutting scheme which aims to save £1.2m.

Sheffield Council said the closure of the greens would save £74,000 and said those under threat were at clubs where there was currently more than one green.

The authority said it had held talks with the Parks Bowls Association in a bid to ensure bowling clubs in the city were kept in business.

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As part of the agreement, the association agreed to a £10 increase in the annual season ticket price to £55.

The association said it had “reluctantly” backed the proposals at a recent special meeting and the changes will be implemented with immediate effect.

The nine greens affected are at Meersbrook, Whiteley Woods, Hillsborough, High Hazels, Norfolk Park, Graves Park, Crookes Valley Park, Hollinsend and Greenhill.

Robert Jackson of the Parks Bowls Association added: “The proposals were a big blow for our sport, but we are relatively pleased with the outcome.

“The council is short of money and so are all the bowlers, but this is a sensible compromise.”