THE ban on smoking and changes in drinking habits are threatening the future of social clubs.
Carlton Bingo, in Bo'ness Road, closed blaming the smoking ban introduced in March last year. But four other clubs were rumoured to be under threat.
Grang
emouth Dockers' Club, for years a gathering place for port workers, held an emergency meeting to discuss the future of the Dundas Street premises. However, club secretary Bernard White has failed to respond to Falkirk Herald requests for information
Councillor Bob Spears, convener of Falkirk Council's environment and heritage committee, believes times are changing.
He said: "Clubland in Grangemouth is becoming a thing of the past. A lot of clubs suffer because the workforces that filled them are no longer substantial. The smoking ban is also having an effect. Clubs are trying for exemption and negotiations are going on."
At the moment there are no plans to close Grangemouth British Legion, a neighbour of the Dockers, but they are feeling the strain.
Jan Harvey, chairman, said: "We are working hard to keep things going. There is no intention to close, it's just changing times at the moment and the way people entertain themselves is different.
"But as well as a social club we are here for ex-servicemen and women and ensure Remembrance Day continues."
Bad patch
The Railway Club, in Barrie Place, is also going through a bad patch. Secretary John Matheson said: "We have told members if things continue the way they have, we've three years left at the most. We're not in immediate danger of closing. All the clubs have problems – we went from a surplus last year to a deficit. You could blame the smoking ban or just a change in people's habits."
Grangemouth Rangers Club, in Wood Street, is going strong according to bar manager Alan Meaney. He said: "There is nothing wrong, we are taking bookings and are not shutting. Rumours started flying when Carronvale bought land for houses. But they are happy to have the club in the area."
One rumour suggested the Rangers Club was going to move out of its Wood Street premises and take over the Docker's Club.
"That's just nonsense," said Mr Meaney.
Councillor Spears urged the clubs in difficulty to seek help from Falkirk Council.
"They should ask for a rates reduction because they are leisure facilities. That would at least sustain them at this time."
j.trimble@falkirkherald.co.uk