Renovation Work Commences at Warminster Sports Centre

Patrons of Warminster Sports Centre have been advised to anticipate disruptions as a project to “modernise” the facility gets underway. The Wiltshire Council-operated centre will see the addition of an expanded gym, a refurbished studio, and a new consultation room. The gym and swimming pool are slated to remain operational throughout the revamp, which is projected for completion by spring. Councillor Ian Blair-Pilling, the council’s cabinet member for leisure, stated: “We assure that any disruption during this period will be well worth it come the end result.” He further commented that the refurbishment “will modernise the building and encourage more people of all ages” to access the facilities. Beard Construction, the company undertaking the work, confirmed that swimming pool users will not experience any changes, though there will be a reduction in exercise classes. The council also verified the permanent removal of the squash courts, with individuals encouraged to instead visit Leighton Recreation Centre, located approximately four miles (6.4km) away. Warminster Broadway councillor Tony Jackson had previously described the closure of the courts as a “waste of public money by Wiltshire Council.” He added that the closure would adversely affect the Scorpion Squash Club, which relied on the use of these courts. However, Mr. Blair-Pilling maintained that closing the courts was necessary. He stated that the council’s data indicated there were not “many regular squash players and the courts are under-used and not financially viable.”