A petition calling for Llanidloes to keep its leisure centre has been signed by hundreds of people within hours of being launched.

The Change.org petition claims that closing the town's leisure centre, in Llangurig Road, would "negatively impact the wellbeing, health, and quality of life for thousands of residents in our town and neighboring communities".

It comes after the council set out four options for the future of leisure provision in Powys on Friday.

More than one of the options would see the council dispose of many of its centres to focus on the five core towns set out in its developing Sustainable Powys proposals.

The new petition is also separate to one launched by the Liberal Democrats calling for more money to be put into the county's leisure estate to help save the centres. Since it was launched on Saturday it has been signed by more than 400 people, with a target of 500 signatures.

READ MORE: Petition launched over Powys leisure centre closures

It also claims that the business case for keeping Llanidloes open over some of the other centres which are not deemed to be at risk stacks up financially.

"Council officials claim closures are about reducing costs," the petition reads. "Yet, Llanidloes’ maintenance costs per user over ten years are lower than those of facilities in Brecon, Llandrindod Wells, and Newtown, which are being kept open.

"Llanidloes costs £6.40 per user compared to £7.30 in Llandrindod Wells and £10.89 in Newtown, despite Llanidloes having a higher utilization rate.

READ MORE: 'Sustainable Powys' plan will 'decimate' services - fears

"Additionally, Brecon’s total maintenance costs over ten years are significantly higher than those of Llanidloes, yet Brecon is not at risk."

The petition calls on the council to "recognize the cost-effectiveness and unique value that Llanidloes Leisure Centre provides to the surrounding community", postpone any closures until each centre's financial and usage data is revealed to the public, and to prioritise "equitable access for rural communities over short-term financial planning".

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It also calls to allow communities to explore viable options to support their centres in collaboration with the council, and to "keep Llanidloes Leisure Centre Open".

The petition adds: "We urge Powys Council to prioritize the continued operation of Llanidloes Leisure Centre, recognizing its essential role in the community.

"This facility is a vital resource for improving public health, supporting families, and offering accessible fitness options to all. Closing it would disproportionately affect rural residents, who would face long journeys to the nearest facilities.

"Keeping the centre open is a matter of fairness, health, and long-term investment in the wellbeing of our community."

To sign the petition click here.