Plans for Kirkby’s new leisure destination have been put forward.

Fresh artist impressions of the proposed leisure centre have also been unveiled.

Ashfield District Council said following consultation with customers, residents and the public, the plans have been moulded with the user experience in mind.

It said the consultation period saw a positive and productive response, providing insight into what is important to all stakeholders.

The council has worked particularly closely with residents who live adjacent to the new leisure centre site as part of the planning process.

Coun Jason Zadrozny, leader of the council, said: “This is a landmark day for this project. The new leisure centre will see huge benefits for all corners of our society, especially with its state-of-the-art facility mix.

“As well as the economic and social benefits, the new destination will also enable us to develop high-quality spaces to form a vibrant hub for our community. The plans will create a variety of opportunities for more inclusive programmes for all kinds of groups to be a part of.

“It’s fantastic to see how the plans have evolved throughout the consultation process. I’m sure that as a result this leisure centre will become a key focal point for our community.”

The facility mix includes:
•Water space (25m pool with flexible floor and separate leisure water pool).
•Sports hall (including cinema).
Health and Fitness suite with full gym.
•Two multi-activity studios.
•Group cycling studio.
•Well-being toning and rehabilitation suite.
•Indoor adventure climbing wall.

Once planning permission is granted, work is due to begin in the autumn.

The current Festival Hall Leisure Centre site will remain open during the building of the new leisure facility (when coronavirus guidelines allow).

Once the centre is open, the current building will be demolished and make way for additional car parking.