South Wales Evening Post - 26 October 2005
Swansea's title of Britain's fittest city has been called into question after it emerged a flagship sports facility is years behind schedule.
Sport stars are having to travel to Neath to train because a high-profile facility in Swansea is not fully operational, according to one group who say it is not fit for use. Swansea Harriers say the new athletics development in Sketty Lane has a number of problems.The city was recently awarded the top fitness accolade after a survey of sports venues and those taking regular exercise.
Swansea Council said it was delighted with the award and praised the city's sports facilities.
Cabinet member for culture, recreation and tourism, Gerald Clement added: "Being active is a crucial element of health for all ages, and this is something the council recognises, both in terms of providing facilities and initiatives to encourage everyone to get fit."
He added: "We have built state-of-the-art athletics facilities alongside the Olympic-size Wales National Pool, in which our national Olympic and Paralympic medal-winning sports stars train, and in which children enjoy free swimming sessions."
However, Gwilym Evans, chairman of the Swansea Harriers' athletics team, said: "Councillor Clement seems to have forgotten that the running track is years behind schedule and is still not open.
"It has some problems with it and cannot be used.
"The indoor facilities are not complete either. The pole vault area is unusable and the throwing area has problems."
Mr Evans said the council had taken credit for the track despite the fact it has never been used.
"It was supposed to be open last October, then we were told the beginning of August.
"People may have seen those comments and thought they could use the track, but that is simply not the case".
A spokesman for Swansea Council confirmed that the track was still not finished.
