New leisure centre plans formally approved

22 hours ago

Alex MossYorkshire

News image — The proposed centre at Squire Lane includes space for two pools and a gym

Bradford Council A computer-generated image of Squire Lane Leisure Centre. A low-level, grey building with large glass windows sits behind a car park and grassy area. — The proposed centre at Squire Lane includes space for two pools and a gym

Plans for a new state‑of‑the‑art sports and leisure centre in Bradford have been formally approved.

The council-led project for the Squire Lane Sports & Leisure facility follows extensive public consultation and includes two swimming pools as well as a gym and studio space.

Bradford Council said a detailed procurement process would now begin with the centre being mostly funded through £20m of Levelling Up money from the government.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, portfolio holder for regeneration, planning and transport, said the next stage would involve "a detailed comprehensive assessment on both construction costs as well as future running costs so that our final decision can be fully informed."

Bradford Council A satellite image of the site which is bordered by a red line. The leisure centre is shown situated on a site bordered by parking and greenery. — The council said it hoped work could start on the centre next year

The plans for the leisure centre, which would have a 25m (82ft) pool with six lanes and a shorter learners' pool, were first mooted a decade ago.

The budget the council is working to on this project is £27.9m, which will continue to be reviewed as the project develops.

Ross-Shaw said: "Providing a sports and leisure facility for this part of the district has always been important to us and obtaining planning approval is an important step closer to making it a reality."

The council said in the coming months work such as site clearance would take place in preparation of any works starting next year.