Plans for a £1.8million expansion to a council owned leisure centre in Christchurch have been approved.
Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre is the only BCP leisure centre in Christchurch and is one of the five leisure centres BCP Council internally operates.
The centre has two swimming pools, a fitness suite, 3G football pitches, squash courts, and indoor cycling studio.
But as the centre has no purpose-built studio exercise classes are limited to the squash courts and sports hall. However, an independent review identified the need for a dedicated studio space to enhance the health and fitness offer at the leisure centre.
A wider piece of work is currently ongoing to transform the five leisure centres operated by BCP Council which will be presented to cabinet later this year.
Councillor Richard Herrett introduced the plans to cabinet members and said: “Overall this supports our wider public health objective, expanding access to fitness and activity for all abilities giving us additional GP referral pathways, support rehabilitation, broaden programmes for children, adults and those with additional needs.”
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Councillor Patrick Canavan addressed cabinet about the plans said: “I don’t intend to speak on the merits on this project what I do want to speak about and question is the priorities and timing of this project.”
Cllr Canavan went on to say: “It seems to me what you are doing is you are seeking to push this to the top of the queue in advance of council being able to scrutinise the budget and question the priorities that this council, this administration is making.”
Councillor Jeff Hanna said: “The critical consideration to me, is the fact this will generate the income needed to cover up revenue costs of the capital borrowing” adding “this is not about prioritising spending money this is a scheme that stands alone subject to approve from audit and governance.”
Councillor David Brown said: “We are investing £1.8 million and over the next 20 years this will deliver £3.2 million, it is almost a no brainer, its improving facilities and amenities to residents.”
Councillor Andy Martin said: “This is another sign of investment from this authority into Christchurch.”
BCP Cabinet voted unanimously to approve the expansion of the leisure centre, the proposal will be heard by the audit and governance committee on January 15.
