West Suffolk residents weigh in on Bury St Edmunds £8.3 million leisure centre revamp plans

Residents have weighed in on a town's £8.3 million leisure centre revamp plans.

Next Tuesday, West Suffolk's cabinet members will discuss the results of a public consultation into the council's £8.3 million plans to revamp the Bury St Edmunds leisure centre, in Beetons Way.

In July, the council agreed to launch further consultation alongside a £2.15 million top-up to ensure the building's use for at least another 10 years.

Cllr Ian Shipp, the authority's lead for leisure, said the consultation had been one of most engaged in West Suffolk's history, with over 1,000 responses, highlighting the value of the building.

He added: "The feedback shows that key factors — such as family-friendly swimming facilities, a convenient central location close to home and work, and good affordability — are especially appreciated.

"With the strong likelihood of increased usage and new interest in the centre, we are committed to proceeding with the current programme of works.”

When asked about their priorities, residents primarily mentioned revamping the wetside changing room, followed by refurbishing the pool hall and creating a splash pad with water play features.

Other plans for the building include a new café and soft play area, a new health and wellbeing centre, and gym renovations.

When prompted about their concerns, 117 residents mentioned concerns over the length of closure and 50 feared a rise in the cost of memberships after the works were finished.

A further 38 residents also questioned the long-term benefit of refurbishing the current building rather than rebuilding a new leisure centre, given the extra money already allocated on top of the initial £6.2 million plans.

Plans for the Western Way Development, which included a new leisure centre, were shelved in September last year due to spiralling costs.

A council report to be presented to members states the authority is aware residents want improvements as soon as possible and confirmed the project's third developed design stage is due to be completed in January.

The council will be phasing the work to keep as much of the building open at any given time, displacing users and clubs to alternative facilities where possible.

The target to complete the work is in early 2026.