A Planning Application has been submitted for the partial rebuild of West Wickham Leisure Centre.
The proposed designs for the exterior of the new leisure facility - a red brick exterior inspired by the newly reopened West Wickham Library, with the proposals also including a new café, gym, reception area, changing rooms and a competition-length swimming pool.
Demolition works at the centre are set to commence in the coming weeks, subject to Planning Approval, with the £22m works having already been approved at a meeting of the council in July. Works are also continuing on the refurbishment of the remainder of the centre, particularly the learner pool.
Councillor Yvonne Bear, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing, said: “This is an important step towards the delivery of this new state-of-the-art leisure centre, with the attractive designs seeking to further tie together our public spaces in West Wickham. We are in a fairly unique position among local authorities of being able to press ahead with a substantial investment in our leisure provision, and I know many residents will be excited to see further progress on site shortly as we secure this centre for many years to come.”
The Planning Application will appear on the council’s Planning Portal following validation, with residents then able to provide comments. A separate planning application regarding the proposed partial demolition work has also been submitted.
The revised proposals follow structural assessments work at the centre after asbestos was removed, allowing the building structure to be examined more closely. Part of the building was determined to be beyond economic repair and must be demolished and rebuilt. Although the centre will now be delivered on a revised schedule, expected to reopen in early 2028, the rebuild plan will offer greater long-term certainty and also minimise future maintenance costs.
Steve May, CEO of Mytime Active, the charitable trust that manages leisure facilities in the borough on behalf of the council, said: “The partial rebuild will not only preserve a much-loved community asset, it will significantly enhance the experience for our customers - from upgraded fitness facilities and a brand new pool to modern changing areas and a vibrant cafe. With improved accessibility and a more welcoming environment, West Wickham will be transformed into a fit-for-purpose, inclusive health and wellbeing hub that better meets the needs of all of our community.”
Specialist leisure developer Alliance Leisure will continue to deliver these important works for the council, alongside the main contractor, Etec Group through the UK Leisure Framework.
Ruth Ripsher, Business Development Manager, Alliance Leisure said, "It is fantastic that all parties have been able to work intensely and collaboratively to determine a way forward for this fantastic redevelopment. The revitalised centre has been designed with the local community at the forefront, and will provide new and enhanced ways for people to get active in the area."
The West Wickham Leisure Centre was closed last year following initial findings of structural issues at the centre. Enabling works, including asbestos removal, have already been completed, which will allow works on the rebuild to proceed at pace.
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