West Yorkshire Combined Authority consider sports arena

West Yorkshire “should be embarrassed” at the lack of facilities for sports like basketball and netball, a sport expert has claimed.

Transcript

00:00Growing frustration is building across West Yorkshire over the region's limited facilities for sports like basketball, netball and ice hockey.

00:10That frustration came into sharp focus as the West Yorkshire Combined Authority's Culture, Heritage and Sport Committee

00:16reviewed a new feasibility study for a proposed 5,000 seat indoor arena.

00:22The idea for the arena followed repeated warnings from experts, including academic and basketball commentator Dr Mark Mills.

00:30He told the committee that the region simply lacks a venue where professional teams can play in front of proper crowds,

00:37pointing out that the Leeds Rhinos netball teams still have to head to Sheffield for most of their home games.

00:43He argues that a suitable arena would not only draw regular spectators,

00:47but would also keep young athletes from leaving the county, with any profits supporting grassroots sport.

00:54The study was produced by specialist consultancy IPW and estimates the arena would cost up to £56 million

01:01and would begin turning a profit in its third year.

01:05Leeds was identified as the ideal location, although other areas would likely plead their case.

01:11Committee members were disappointed by the high costs and low returns,

01:15with West Yorkshire Mayor Tracey Brabin saying the projected profit was far too small to reinvest meaningfully in communities.

01:23Dr Mills admitted the business case was weaker than hoped, but insisted the need for facilities remains urgent.

01:29Without action, he warned, young people will continue to leave the region to pursue these sports.

01:35Mayor Brabin added that if a major investor emerges, the plan is ready,

01:39and by bringing smaller sports together under one roof, the region could benefit enormously.