Issue - meetings

The Board received an update on the Sports & Leisure Centre project. The Board were advised significant progress had been made since the previous report, including the completion of detailed design. Preparatory works on site had continued to maintain momentum, including the new site entrance and exit now in place and the new substation complete. Subject to contract completion, main construction works were scheduled to commence in early July, with the new facility expected to open in June 2028.

The Board also received an update on the St George’s Crossing works and that construction had recommenced in May, with traffic signals installed and utility works substantially completed. The crossing was expected to become fully operational later in June. It was acknowledged that the works had caused some inconvenience to Swimming Centre users; however, the completed crossing would provide a significant improvement in direct access between the town centre, the current and new facility and surrounding residential areas.

It was RESOLVED that the updates be noted.

The Board received an update on the Sports and Leisure Centre project. It was reported that since the last meeting, planning had progressed positively, with the outstanding objection from the local flood authority now being resolved.

Officers advised that recent months had involved extensive partnership working to finalise detailed design elements. Consideration had also been given to national challenges relating to supply chains, inflation, and material availability.

The Board was informed of the initial works which included the installation of a substation to support the development, followed by works to establish site access and drainage infrastructure. Main construction works were expected to commence in June.

It was noted that the north and south car parks at the existing swimming centre would be closed to facilitate the works, and that mitigation measures had been introduced, including alternative parking arrangements and the provision of accessible bays.

Works to deliver a new pedestrian crossing at St George’s Way were scheduled, although this remained subject to coordination with other highway works in the area.

The overall construction programme was expected to take approximately two years, with completion of the new leisure centre anticipated in March 2028.

Key risks which were identified included managing disruption caused by car park closures, maintaining clear communication with residents and users, and ensuring coordination with wider highway works. Officers confirmed that mitigation measures were in place, including accessible parking provision, ongoing stakeholder communication, and planning for emergency access to the site.

The Board also received an update on communications activity. It was reported that the closure of the swimming centre car park had been widely communicated through multiple channels and direct engagement with users and stakeholders.

Officers confirmed that engagement had taken place with facility users, schools, and community groups, including those representing accessibility needs, to ensure appropriate mitigations were in place. Temporary drop-off points and coach bays were also being provided.

It was noted that the car park would close on 13 April 2026 and communications would continue throughout the build period to minimise disruption.

The Board noted the update and acknowledged the significant progress made, as well as the level of planning undertaken to mitigate disruption.

It was RESOLVED that the updates be noted.

Ross Hughes, Regeneration Manager, reminded the Board for the vision of the new Sports & Leisure Centre which combines the existing dry and wet leisure facilities in the town with a modern and welcoming design.

Ross reported the Council is finalising the full contract with Morgan Sindall following Full Council approval with enabling works planned in the coming months.

It was RESOLVED that the updates be noted

The current position relating to the Sports and Leisure Centre project was presented to the Board by Dave Wells, Assistant Director – Regeneration, SBC.

It was advised that the planning application had been approved by the Planning and Development Committee on 9th September 2025.

The major site construction works were scheduled to begin in March 2026, with the new facility projected to open in December 2027.  Final landscaping, car parking, and demolition of the old swimming pool were expected to be completed by May 2028.

Members were advised that the facility had been designed to include a 10-lane swimming pool.  A café space overlooking the park was intended to encourage casual engagement and create a welcoming environment.  Additional features included a wet play area for children, a sports hall and flexible specialist spaces for fitness classes.

The £45 million project was praised by Board Members as a significant achievement by the Project Team, reflecting the tangible progress and anticipated benefits for the local community.

The Chair thanked Dave for his update.