Work to start at Arun Leisure Centre in a £1.5m investment – making it fit for the future
The works will make the centre more environmentally friendly and modern – highly anticipated improvements which local residents have been calling for.
An energy conservation programme will kick things off, which will reduce carbon emissions, minimise waste and improve the leisure environment for visitors, followed by building works to improve the facilities.
Freedom Leisure, who operates the centre on behalf of Arun District Council, has confirmed that work is due to start on phase one’s energy works in the second week of October. The works include installing new innovative air handling and water treatment solutions, as well as plant room insulation and energy efficient lighting throughout the centre. Not only do these works reduce carbon emissions by 281 tonnes each year but they will also improve the air and water quality for swimmers.
The improvements result in a 39% annual reduction in energy bills across the site, and the water control measures stop water being wasted to the drain every single day; this simple solution will save the water equivalent of filling up the main pool nearly three times a year!
Phase two is planned for mid-November, when centre visitors will really start to see the improvements. When complete, customers will experience a new, modern feel throughout, with a new café selling Costa coffee and an enhanced reception and seating area, plus brand new changing facilities for gym users on the first floor.
Andrew Smith, Freedom Leisure Area Manager says, “When Freedom Leisure was awarded the contract with Arun District Council in April this year we were delighted to be responsible for such a wonderful community facility. In particular we look forward to facilitating the improvement in health and wellbeing of the local community and supporting priority groups including; the disabled, older people, and very young children.
“It was always the plan to make huge improvements to the centre in order to modernise it and we are delighted that the project is now underway. With any building improvements there will unfortunately be some disruption, so we ask that visitors bear with us while we undertake this project.”
Councillor Paul Dendle, Arun District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Amenities, said: “I am delighted that this partnership will see an investment of around £1.5m into the facility to create a modern, fit for purpose leisure centre for all of the community to enjoy. Not only will the customers benefit from the upgraded facilities, but the excellent energy conservation programme will benefit the environment too.
“This project emphasises the Council’s commitment to the health and wellbeing of Arun residents as we continue to invest in our leisure facilities despite the challenging financial climate. This is a fantastic way to start the management of Arun’s leisure facilities.”
