I see that the same circular arguments and dogmatic thinking exists in the
wider world of gliding as it does in UK gliding.

On the topic of powered gliders, one side will argue that this is the way
the market is heading and that one of the benefits is faster turnaround and
fewer people required for launches.
The other side will engage in circular logic and argue that it is safer to
fly aircraft without engines as using an engine introduces the possibility
of engine failure.

My opinion:
Do as you like.
Buy a powered glider, preferably an SSDR, if that's what you want.
If your club is headed up by old-school dogmatic individuals who won't
'allow' you to fly from the site, find somewhere better.