Residents are being asked to give their views as the council reveals its plans for a new leisure centre in the south of the Royal Borough.

 

The new centre would be built on the Charters School campus, enhancing the existing facilities already available at the Charters Leisure Centre, which will remain open.

 

The proposals seek to offer residents additional daytime sports facilities, while also providing improved amenities for pupils and staff at Charters School.

 

The proposed centre could include:

 

  • A six-lane swimming pool (for public and school use).
  • A sports hall with eight badminton courts (for public and school use).
  • A 60-station gym.
  • Dance studio and spinning studio.
  • 100 additional car parking spaces.

 

Cllr Samantha Rayner, cabinet member for culture and communities, said: “This proposed new leisure centre, would give residents in the south of the borough and pupils at Charters School access to additional state-of-the-art, modern leisure facilities without needing to travel.

 

“We are very keen to hear from users of the current site, pupils, staff and the parents and guardians of those who attend Charters School as well as other local residents to get their views of the proposals.”

 

There will be opportunities to view and comment on the design during the summer in local shopping centres and libraries to help us develop the design. Full details to be announced in due course.

 

The existing Charters Leisure Centre would remain in operation offering gym, sports hall and squash facilities to its current programme during and following the build.

 

Cllr Christine Bateson, principle member for neighbourhood planning, Ascot and the Sunnings said: “This proposed investment would ensure that residents in the south of the borough have improved access to sports and leisure facilities. This public opportunity to comment on the design proposals will also ensure that any investment we make meets resident’s needs and provides them with vital facilities in the years to come.”

 

The centre is expected to cost £14.2 million, with a multi-million pound investment from the Royal Borough.

 

Once views have been gathered from residents and the school, outline designs will be developed further before a planning application, subject to funding approval, is submitted in early 2019.

 

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