A CONTRACTOR has been appointed to build the new £15 million Spen Valley Leisure Centre, it has been announced.

Kirklees Council has today confirmed that it has appointed Kier, a leading UK construction and infrastructure services company, to build the new leisure centre in Liversedge.

The firm 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 closed down in August and demolished at the end of 2019, after being in operation for 50 years. This has paved the way for the rebuild works to start on the same site in the New Year.

Former Spenborough Pool and Leisure Centre is demolished

Spenborough Pool demolition could start in September to make way for £15m Spen Valley Leisure Centre

The Spen Valley Leisure Centre facilities will include: an 8 lane, 25 metre main pool; an activity pool 20m x 10m with moveable floor; spectator seating in the pool areas; large fitness suite; two fitness studios with flexibility for other use; and a cycling studio.

There will also be two changing villages which will include 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; a 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.

Further information about the new developments can be found at spenvalleyleisurecentre.co.uk.