A two-year project to deliver a brand new, modern leisure centre that meets the modern needs of its diverse community has opened its doors in Swanley, Kent.
The development, managed by Alliance Leisure, employed ISG as construction partner and was procured by Sevenoaks District Council through the UK Leisure Framework, owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure.
Described by the Leader of the Council as a ‘historic investment’, the new centre replaces an inefficient centre of the same name built in the 1960s and creates an activity hub that meet the hugely diverse needs of modern society.
“It’s fantastic to see this centre finally open its doors” says Tom Fairey, Senior Business Development Manager, Alliance Leisure. Designed by architects, Saunders Boston, the new centre provides an environmentally responsible activity hub for everyone to enjoy.
Wet side, the development incorporates two pools – a 25 metre, six lane pool with an adjustable height floor plus a learner pool – ideal for hosting the centre’s full programme of children’s swimming lessons. Both pools are supported by a family changing village.
In addition there is a 100 station gym, with mainly Technogym equipment a modern group cycling studio, two large Group Exercise Studios and a multi-purpose sports hall for a wide range of activities and clubs.
For families and young people, a dedicated soft play area entertains the younger ages whilst TAGactive, a challenging gamified obstacle course develops strategic thinking, speed, agility, balance and spatial awareness.
There is also a dedicated Feel Good Suite featuring power-assisted equipment for people with limited mobility, the elderly and those managing long-term conditions.
The centre offers a modern café to serve all the activity areas along with fantastic viewing areas to the pools. The whole centre is built to accommodate everyone, including those with mobility issues. The swimming areas include two ‘Pool Pods’ to aid accessibility and two lifts provide access between floors, and the centre boasts changing places toilets.
Cllr. Peter Flemming, Leader of the Council, at Sevenoaks District Council, says: “This new centre represents the largest public investment for Swanley in over 30 years. Designed to support everyone in the community, across their entire life journey, this facility offers a sustainable leisure provision that will be enjoyed for generations. The pandemic has really hammered home the mental and physical benefits of an active lifestyle. Through this investment we are committing to encouraging an active community to drive health, happiness and prosperity for all.”
The centre officially opened to the public on Saturday, February 14, 2022 and will be managed by Everyone Active.