Plans show how Sherford leisure centre could look

MULTI-MILLION POUND 'GREEN' DEVELOPMENT PROPOSED

- WILLIAM TELFORD

PLANS for Plymouth’s new multimillion-pound leisure centre have been submitted to Plymouth City Council. If approved, the proposed development, at the £1bn Sherford new town, would end a near 30-year wait for a swimming pool in that part of Plymouth.

Sherford’s leisure centre is designed to be the greenest and most accessible in the city. The amenity aims to offer the latest in high-quality, sustainable, and accessible sports and leisure facilities.

Incorporating a range of energy-saving, green elements, sustainability has been central to the planning and design. The leisure centre will have a green roof, solar panels, heating via air source heat pumps, and electric vehicle charging points – making it the “greenest” leisure centre in Plymouth and the South Hams.

Significant efforts have been made to ensure the leisure centre will be fully accessible and open to all. Plans include the inclusion of a Pool Pod user-controlled pool lift; “changing places” toilet, with changing bench and hoist; internal passenger lift; and accessible car parking spaces.

Thought has been given to the wide range of users, ensuring there is a range of sports and leisure facilities available for all ages and a variety of interests. The leisure centre plans include a sports hall; 25m, four-lane heated swimming pool; dry and wet changing facilities; soft play area; gym; fitness studio; cafe; 100-plus space car park; and multipurpose function rooms.