Contractor appointed to build £15m leisure centre

Kirklees Council has appointed a contractor to build the new Spen Valley Leisure Centre in Liversedge.

Kier, a UK construction and infrastructure services company, will start the construction phase of the project in February when the foundations for the new leisure centre will be laid.

The old Spenborough Pool was demolished at the end of 2019 after serving the community for 50 years, paving the way for building works in the New Year.

Spen Valley Leisure Centre facilities will include: an eight lane, 25-metre main pool; a 20m by 10m activity pool with moveable floor; spectator seating in the pool areas; a large fitness suite; two fitness studios with flexibility for other use; and a cycling studio.

There will also be two changing villages which will feature family cubicles, baby change and large team changing areas.

Leader of the council, Councillor Shabir Pandor, said: “I’m really pleased to see the progress on this major capital development project for the people of North Kirklees.

“Kirklees Council is committed to helping people to be healthy, achieve their ambitions and live independently in their communities for as long as possible.  The exciting new leisure centre will contribute massively to achieving these outcomes for the local people.

“The leisure centre will help towards creating a wonderful asset for the local community and will also attract more visitors into Kirklees and a sustainable economy.  I look forward to seeing the developments on site as Kier begin the construction phase.”

The centre aims to be inclusive for all members of the community including facilities for people with disabilities; design which is dementia friendly; and a café where groups using the whole Princess Mary Activity Complex can meet and socialise.

The existing fitness suite, studios and athletics track will remain open for use for the duration of the build.  The new facilities will be open for use in autumn 2021.