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    28

    Oct 2021

    Last Updated: 28/10/2021
    Knaresborough
    Knaresborough

    Council submits plans for new Knaresborough leisure centre

    by Connor Creaghan

    | 28 Oct, 2021
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    The leisure centre will include a six-lane 25 metre pool, a learner pool with flume, sauna and steam room, fitness suite and studio, cafe, electric car charging points, bicycle storage and play area.

    knaresborough-leisure-and-wellness-centre
    Designs for the Knaresborough Leisure Centre as proposed by the council.

    Harrogate Borough Council has submitted plans for a new multi-million pound leisure centre in Knaresborough.

    It is anticipated that, with approval from the council's planning committee, construction could start on the facility as early as spring next year. It is expected to take 18 months to build.

    Under the plans, the new building would be built on the playground to the rear of the existing pool, which would remain open during the work.

    The new leisure centre will include a six-lane 25 metre pool, a learner pool with flume, sauna and steam room, fitness suite and studio, cafe, electric car charging points, bicycle storage and play area.

    A public consultation held by the council earlier this month received 209 responses. Of those responses 54% were positive and 25% were neutral about the scheme.

    However, local resident David Hull, who launched the ‘Not On Fysche Field’ campaign has criticised the plans over the loss of the existing play park. The council has said it will create a new play park on the site.

    The plans have been altered to change the brickwork and cladding, to remove the glazing in an effort to reduce light pollution. There are also changes to the type of trees that will be planted.



    Trevor Watson, Harrogate Borough Council’s director of economy, environment and housing, said:

    "It is clear residents are keen for us to provide modern and fit-for-purpose leisure facilities in the east of the district that complement the surrounding area, while also ensuring we retain the existing pool while the new facility is built.
    "It has also allowed us to address any concerns and tailor the scheme where practically possible.
    "I’m confident that the revised scheme will encourage a healthier and more active lifestyle and something Knaresborough residents will be proud of."





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    Mark Tweedie, managing director of Brimhams Active, the company set up by the council to run its leisure facilities, said:

    "Through the provision of fantastic modern leisure and wellness facilities and engaging, inclusive services we will be able to help many more people become active, lead healthier lifestyles and therefore live longer, more independent and happier lives.”