IT looks as if the threatened SpArC Leisure Centre in Bishop's Castle has been handed a lifeline.

At the very least there is a stay of execution following a decision by Shropshire Council to delay funding cuts for a year.

Proposals to reduce funding to a local leisure operator have been delayed for a year.

The proposed 25 per cent management fee reduction to Teme Leisure was agreed as part of the savings identified in Shropshire Council’s financial strategy in July.

The decision to not go ahead with the reduction in funding in 2017/18 was made to give time for talks with town and parish councils and other organisations about alternative ways of funding the facilities in the future.

Teme Leisure, which operates leisure centres across south Shropshire, including Bishop’s Castle, Ludlow, Cleobury Mortimer and Church Stretton, will continue to work with the council to explore opportunities with support groups in finding longer term solutions to maintain leisure facilities in the south of the county.

“After careful consideration and discussions, and taking into account the work we are undertaking with local organisations, and town and parish councils, a decision has now been made to delay plans to reduce Teme Leisure’s funding,” said Stuart West, Shropshire Council’s cabinet member for leisure and culture.

“The required saving from the leisure services budget will be made through alternative means in 2017/18.

“Although continuing to operate facilities at Ludlow, Bishop’s Castle, Church Stretton and Cleobury Mortimer, current levels of provision remain challenging and this enables Teme Leisure and Shropshire Council to continue to liaise with proactive support groups in the south of the county to ensure high-quality leisure services continue in south Shropshire.”