The £17m transformation of the Walnuts Leisure Centre is entering its final phase, with finishing touches now being applied in various spaces, while the remaining fit out works are completed.
The new sauna and steam rooms have now been installed next to the new competition-length pool, where the lane lines are now being marked. The new changing rooms and lockers are also in place, while the bright and refreshed cafe and reception areas are almost ready to welcome residents later this Spring.
A new exercise studio, with state-of-the-art EGYM smart strength training equipment is being provided at the transformed centre, which allows residents to safely and efficiently adjust workouts to their body and strength levels, including to support rehabilitation. A children’s splash wall next to the new learner’s pool will also bring some added fun for future family visits. Essential repairs and a completely new heating system will reduce running costs at the centre, helping secure its future over the long-term.
Councillor Yvonne Bear, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing, said: “It is incredibly exciting to see these works really coming together now, as we get ever closer to welcoming residents back to their transformed Walnuts Leisure Centre. This is a tremendous investment in the borough’s leisure provision that we are delivering for Orpington, which has been carefully prioritised by the council. This is because we know just how important it is to secure this centre for the future, with the facilities that residents want and deserve.”
A visit to view progress at Walnuts Leisure Centre was attended by Councillor Bear, Ward Councillor Kim Botting and members of the project team.
Steve May is the Chief Executive Officer at Mytime Active, the borough’s long-standing leisure provider, who was in attendance at the visit. He said: “At Mytime Active, we’re passionate about providing more than just leisure facilities; our aim is to offer a true community hub to better serve the needs of local residents for many years to come. It is truly exciting to see the transformation of the Walnuts Leisure Centre entering this final stretch; we can’t wait to welcome residents back to the centre when it opens later this Spring.”
Specialist leisure developer, Alliance Leisure, is continuing to deliver the final phase of the works for the council, with the main contractor, Etec Group.
Michael Smith, CEO of Etec Group, who was also in attendance at the visit, said: “We are working at pace to complete these works to a high standard for the council, providing state-of-the-art facilities while completing the essential works needed to support its long-term maintenance. We look forward to residents in Orpington and beyond soon being able to enjoy impressive new spaces across the centre.”
Further details about the Walnuts Leisure Centre works and the works at West Wickham Leisure Centre.
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