Improvements to leisure centre gets the green light from councillors
Children playing and swimming in the pool.. Photo: West Suffolk Council.
Bury St Edmunds Leisure Centre is set to undergo key improvements following approval by West Suffolk Council members.
The proposed enhancements to the leisure centre are designed to improve the facilities and services offered.
Yesterday [Tuesday, December 17], the council agreed to the proposed programme of maintenance and refurbishment works, following the outcome of a public consultation on the complex.
Earlier this year, West Suffolk Council and Abbeycroft, who manage the centre, joined forces to conduct an extensive consultation, including an online survey, in-person sessions, focus groups, and a digital campaign.
This effort resulted in feedback from over 1,000 residents, centre users, and stakeholders, providing valuable insights into what enhancements matter most.
The top priorities identified included modernising the wet-side changing rooms, upgrading the pool halls, as well as adding water play features in the children’s leisure pool while retaining the flumes.
While the proposed upgrades were broadly welcomed, respondents voiced preferences for minimising disruption by phasing the work appropriately during the refurbishment.
Following approval from members, the council and Abbeycroft will pursue a phased approach to help reduce the impact of the refurbishment work.
West Suffolk Council agreed to an additional £2.16 million to fund the proposed works which was set out in the Business Case approved by the council in July 2024.
This investment is on top of a £6.2m capital programme for maintenance at the centre.
Ian Shipp, the cabinet member for Leisure at West Suffolk Council, said: “The proposed enhancements to the leisure centre are designed to improve its facilities and services to better meet the needs of our community.
“With 1,007 responses, the consultation obtained the highest level of public engagement in West Suffolk Council’s history, underscoring how much residents value this facility.
“The feedback shows that key factors—such as family-friendly swimming facilities, a convenient central location close to home and work, and good affordability—are especially appreciated.
“With the strong likelihood of increased usage and new interest in the centre, we are pleased that the council has committed to proceeding with the current programme of works.”
West Suffolk Council and Abbeycroft will aim to start works in the New Year, whilst taking measures to minimise disruption and provide as much advance notice as possible.