Exciting upgrades for Bury St Edmunds Leisure Centre to be discussed

03 Dec 2024

Proposals to deliver key improvements to the Bury St Edmunds Leisure Centre will be brought before cabinet following overwhelming public engagement.

In July, West Suffolk councillors approved a business case for refurbishment works at the Beetons Way leisure centre, contingent upon public consultation. From 22 August to 10 October 2024, West Suffolk Council and Abbeycroft, who manage the centre, joined forces to conduct an extensive consultation, including an online survey, in-person sessions, focus groups, and a digital campaign. This effort resulted in feedback from over 1,000 residents, centre users, and stakeholders, providing valuable insights into what enhancements matter most.

The top priorities identified included modernising the wet-side changing rooms, upgrading the pool halls, as well as adding water play features in the children’s leisure pool while retaining the popular flumes.

While the proposed upgrades were broadly welcomed, respondents voiced preferences for minimising disruption by phasing the work appropriately during the refurbishment. The council and Abbeycroft are looking at a phased approach to help mitigate these concerns.

On 10 December, West Suffolk Cabinet will be asked to agree to proceed with the next stage of the proposed maintenance and refurbishment project, considering the feedback received through the recent consultation.

Cllr Ian Shipp, Cabinet Member for Leisure at West Suffolk Council, said: “The proposed enhancements to the leisure centre are designed to improve its facilities and services to better meet the needs of our community. With 1,007 responses, this recent consultation has seen one of the highest levels of public engagement in West Suffolk Council’s history, underscoring how much residents value this space. The feedback shows that key factors—such as family-friendly swimming facilities, a convenient central location close to home and work, and good affordability—are especially appreciated. With the strong likelihood of increased usage and new interest in the centre, we are committed to proceeding with the current programme of works.”

Cabinet will consider the public consultation results at their meeting before going to full Council for approval.

Any investment will be on top of a £6.2 million capital programme for maintenance at the centre, already agreed by the council.

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