West Suffolk Council Receives Over 1,000 Responses on £8.3M Leisure Centre Renovation

West Suffolk Council has received over 1,000 submissions regarding its £8.3 million proposal to upgrade Bury St Edmunds Leisure Centre. The council’s objective is to renovate the facility by adding a new soft play zone, a health and wellbeing center, and updating the gym. The findings from this public consultation are scheduled for discussion at a West Suffolk Council cabinet meeting on Tuesday. Independent councillor Ian Shipp, who serves as the cabinet member for leisure, stated: “With the strong likelihood of increased usage and new interest in the centre, we are committed to proceeding with the current programmes of work.” According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, while residents who participated in the consultation expressed a desire for facility improvements, they also raised concerns regarding the potential duration of the centre’s closure and a possible rise in membership fees. Additionally, some feedback questioned the long-term advantages of the proposed plans. In 2023, the authority previously abandoned plans for a completely new leisure centre, which had an estimated cost of £75 million. Mr. Shipp commented: “The feedback shows key factors – such as family-friendly swimming facilities, a convenient central location close to home and work, and good affordability.” The authority intends to maintain operations at as much of the centre as feasible throughout the construction phase. Should the plans receive approval, the project is anticipated to conclude by early 2026.