Local authority launches new leisure centre following £30m investment

A Merseyside council has opened a new leisure centre as part of a £30m investment.
Halton Borough Council unveiled the Halton Leisure Centre, on Moor Lane, this week.
It was completed after a two-year building project led by Wates Construction and replaces the Kingsway Leisure Centre which has now closed.
The Mayor and Mayoress, Cllr Kevan and Andrea Wainwright, cut the ribbon to officially open the centre, which features two swimming pools, gym, sports hall, fitness studios, squash court, steam room and sauna, and community rooms.
There are plenty of changing rooms and toilets, including a Changing Places facility for those with physical and learning disabilities.
A soft play area and cafe will also be opening soon on the ground floor.
Outside there are 150 car parking spaces, including electric car charging bays, plus bike racks.
Cllr Paul Nolan, Halton Borough Council’s portfolio holder for leisure services, said: “We are thrilled that the new leisure centre is open and are immensely proud of what’s on offer to Halton residents.
“Kingsway served us well for so many years, but this change is long overdue.
“Keeping active is vital for health and wellbeing, and this project supports the council’s vision of helping more residents to participate in sport and physical activity for the long-term good.”
David Pierpoint, Operations Director at Wates Construction, said: “Our partnership with Halton Borough Council, which began in 2018, has been a remarkable journey of collaboration.
“We are immensely proud to bring this project to life – one that not only fulfils the council’s vision for a state-of-the-art, sustainability-led leisure centre, but also delivers exceptional facilities for the community.”
He added: “Beyond the build, our significant investments in training, education, and local businesses reinforce our deep commitment to helping the communities where we live and work thrive.”