New Leisure Centre Plans Revealed for Thornaby Town Revamp

Details for a new leisure centre, which will include a swimming pool and gym, have been made public. This facility, situated in Thornaby, Teesside, is slated for construction on the former Phoenix House site, forming part of broader efforts to revitalize the town centre. While the existing pool on Thornaby Road is scheduled for closure and demolition, Stockton Council has affirmed its commitment to a “carefully phased” program designed to ensure a swimming facility remains accessible to the public. Following its approval of the plans, the Labour-led council characterized the centre as a “significant investment” and anticipated it would “boost footfall” in Thornaby. The ground floor of the facility is planned to feature a five-lane pool, complete with a sauna, steam room, and changing rooms, alongside a lobby and reception area. The first floor will accommodate two gym studios, a social area for bowls, and two reception desks. The Local Democracy Reporting Service reported that the facility will integrate into a “refurbished and remodelled” Thornaby Pavilion, aligning with Stockton Council’s proposals for the currently vacant site. The project also encompasses new parking provisions for 47 vehicles and 30 bikes, designated coach drop-off areas, and fresh access points via Trenchard Avenue. Planning documents described the development as a “state-of-the-art facility built for the future,” expected to employ 12 members of staff. This initiative is a component of the town centre’s transformation, backed by £23.9m in government funding secured through the Thornaby Town Deal. Simon Grundy, the planning services manager, stated: “The proposal is considered to offer an enhancement to the existing leisure facility, as well as arguably the district centre as a whole. It will be a significant investment into Thornaby town centre, as well as being likely to attract additional visitors, boosting footfall to the town centre.” Construction is projected to commence in 2025, with the facility anticipated to open in 2026.