Plans to bring a new state-of-the-art leisure centre to Kirkby have taken another step forward.

Ashfield District Council is now seeking tenders from contractors for the construction of the new leisure centre and community hub on the Festival Hall site in Kirkby.

Ground clearance has commenced at the site near Lindleys Lane.

Following two successful consultation periods over the past nine months, the council submitted a planning application for the build in March 2020.

The consultation period saw a positive and productive response, providing insight into what is important to users of the existing leisure centre and all stakeholders.

The council said it has worked with local residents who live adjacent to the new site as part of the planning process.

The council is also working closely with its procurement partners at Nottingham City Council to seek contractors on the £12.5m project.

The facilities will include:
• Water space (25m pool with flexible floor and separate leisure water area)
• Sports hall (incl cinema)
• 85 station health and fitness gym with free weights area
• Two multi-activity studios
• Group cycling studio
• Wellbeing studio and sensory room
• Indoor adventure climbing wall and soft play
• Sauna and Steam Room
• Café

Coun Jason Zadrozny, leader of the council, said: “This is yet another step closer to a first-class facility for the people of Kirkby. There is currently a lot of work going on behind the scenes so it’s exciting to see us getting closer and closer towards construction beginning.

“I’m looking forward to us working closely with the selected contractors to achieve our goal of a destination that will be a key focal point of our community.”

Pictured, from left, are councillors Daniel Williamson, Andy Meakin, Jason Zadrozny and Tom Hollis