Trafford’s Labour administration has saved a popular leisure centre from closure by approving plans to transfer it into community ownership.

The George H Carnell leisure centre in Urmston, has now been the subject of a Community Asset Transfer and will be managed by the George Carnall Community Group (GCCG).

Members of Trafford’s Executive unanimously approved the enterprise during a meeting of the Councils Executive on Monday.

The move has secured the future of the leisure centre, which had been on the brink of closure until a group of residents championed for it to remain open.

Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Culture and Leisure, who has been supporting the talks with the GCCG for more than year welcomed the decision.

Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Patel said: “So much work has gone into securing the future of the centre – and I couldn’t more proud of everyone who has worked tirelessly to make that happen.

“Projects of this nature can be difficult and challenging, but by working together we have safeguarded this much-loved facility for the whole community.”

The centre has been managed by Trafford Leisure, but it was set to close when the refurbishment of Urmston Leisure Centre was completed.

However, following a public consultation, residents and leisure centre members were unanimously in support of keeping it open.

“The Labour administration has made the health and wellbeing of its residents a priority – and that is what has driven this initiative to a successful outcome,” added Cllr Patel.

“This is a landmark moment, and I would like to congratulate and thank all the members of the George Carnall Community Group for their unwavering support; and wish them well for the future.”