Organisers responsible for the running of Polmont Sports Centre have launched an urgent volunteer appeal, with the centre now running the risk of being forced to reduce its opening hours.

The “We need you!” campaign is asking local people if they can spare some time to support the day-to-day running of the venue.

The centre, which was transferred into community ownership by Falkirk Council earlier this year, says volunteers are needed for a number of essential tasks including opening, closing, taking bookings and setting up tables and nets for activities.

There has also been a request for keen green-fingered gardeners to help keep the grounds surrounding the centre looking fresh and tidy.

Carrying the slogan “Your time. Your community. Your centre”, the appeal highlights the importance of volunteers playing their part in keeping the facility open to Polmont residents.

Locals, who last month were invited to share their thoughts on the sports centre at the first annual Community Group AGM, could once again play an integral part in securing the future of the publicly-owned venue.

The community group was founded by local volunteers in spring 2025, after Falkirk Council announced plans to close the facility. In April 2026, the authority approved the transfer of ownership to the group for £1, backed by more than £230,000 in funding for modernisation projects, including a new heating system and solar panels.

Polmont Community Group chairperson Derek Williamson said: “The centre is run purely by volunteers for the benefit of the community, and we’re always looking for new people to help us in the amazing facility.

Polmont Sports Centre issues volunteer plea with opening times under threat. (Pic: Michael Gillen.)

placeholder image — Polmont Sports Centre issues volunteer plea with opening times under threat. (Pic: Michael Gillen.)

“Whether it’s for a couple of hours a day or a couple of hours a week, we need the community’s help to keep the centre open. With us being open from 9am until 10pm every day, it can be a challenge.

“We’re a friendly bunch, and our volunteers range from school leavers to people who have recently retired. We’ve got a wide variety of experience, but are always on the lookout for new people to join us.”

Anyone interested can apply online at Polmont Sports Centre, phone the venue on 0132 436 6105, or simply pop in and speak to a member of the team.