In November 2024, the Leisure Centre hosted a public engagement drop in to give an update on proposals to spend the £1 million funding that has been ring fenced by Cheshire West and Chester to secure the building’s future. Helen Pakpahan, Economic Growth Programme Manager at CWAC, Matt Parker, Managing Director of Brio, and local CWAC Councillors Mike Garvey and Lucy Sumner were also present. Last minute publicity had an impact on the numbers attending, however the representatives were kept busy answering questions for the whole three hours.
Following an online consultation during lockdown, Brio and CWAC have been considering structure, energy and future usage on the site. The Leisure Centre currently hosts 21 sports clubs, 33 weekly classes, and hosts national sports competitions. As sports memberships increase, facilities must be improved. Two plans are under consideration:
- The ground floor to be refurbished and the first floor to be let to a public service provider, as yet unannounced.
- Partial demolition of the two storey building, with the Library and Sports Hall unaffected. A rebuild of the gym, changing rooms, studios and well-being facilities.
Extra parking and the removal of the synthetic football courts are being discussed. Kydd’s Wint may be developed as a public pedestrian access from the town.
The plans will be submitted to CWAC in Spring 2025, meanwhile further sources of funding are being explored to extend the reach of the project. For further information, speak to a member of the Brio Leisure Team or visit the webpage cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/A56-leisure-corridor.