Leisure centre plans unveiled

Redevelopment of Hartham Leisure Centre came a step closer after a planning application was submitted to the District Council.

The £7m scheme would see the demolition of the western end of the building and construction of new multipurpose studios, spinning studio, clip and climb, café, fitness suite and new reception. The existing swimming pool will also be refurbished

The planning application outlines the business case for redevelopment, highlighting that the centre is well used.

Whilst continuing to be a popular venue, the existing Hartham Leisure Centre has now reached a point in its life where a wider variety of studios and a more modern fitness suite, along with more up to date facilities within the existing centre, would be favourably received. Without significant renovation works - which due to location and nature would entail a lengthy shut down of the centre - it can no longer adequately meet the current, or future, leisure demands of the local community. The desire to meet such requirements is particularly important in the broader context of wider public health objectives, and ensuring the local population is able to stay active.

The project will be funded by Section 106 receipts from housebuilders, as well as money from the New Homes Bonus scheme (also paid by housebuilders), along with borrowing from the Public Works Loan Board.

The leisure centre was first built as an extention to the outdoor swimming pool in 1988 and extended ten years later. In 2008 an additional ground floor gym was added.

If the planning application is approved, work is expected to start in February, with the existing gym, studio & reception closing in April 2020 - replaced by a temporary gym and reception. The pool will close from September 2020 to February 2021, when the project completes.