A multi-million pound overhaul could replace outdated leisure facilities with a single modern hub designed to tackle inactivity and improve health outcomes.
Plans have been put forward to redevelop and refurbish the existing Wonford Community and Leisure Centre into a new integrated wellbeing hub, with councillors set to decide on a £6,000,000 funding package.
The proposal, outlined in a report to council, would combine existing services into one building, including a gym, studio, café, community spaces and new changing facilities.
The scheme is expected to be considered at a council meeting on Tuesday, March 24.
If approved, the project would be funded through a combination of £2,000,000 from Sport England, up to £2,920,269 from Community Infrastructure Levy funding, and £1,079,731 from section 106 developer contributions.
The council has been working with Sport England since 2018, with the hub forming a key part of its wider strategy to reduce health inequalities and increase physical activity.
The report highlights that the area experiences some of the poorest health outcomes and highest levels of inactivity in the city, with the new facility intended to provide improved access to sport, leisure and community services.
Plans include demolishing parts of the existing site, including the gym, Phoenix Centre and outdoor changing rooms, before constructing a new integrated hub with Football Association-standard changing facilities.
The redesigned site would feature a four-court sports hall, a 53-station gym, a studio, consultation room, café, meeting rooms and accessible changing areas.
Planning permission for the wider scheme was granted in 2025 following community engagement and design work, although revised plans have reduced the overall cost to align with available funding.
If funding is agreed, procurement is expected to begin later in 2026, with construction starting in February 2027 and completion scheduled for July 2028.
The report states the redevelopment could significantly reduce the current annual deficit associated with running the existing facilities, which is estimated at around £275,000 per year.
Forecasts suggest the new hub would move towards a more sustainable financial position within five years, potentially generating a surplus.
However, the project remains dependent on securing full funding approval and resolving existing lease agreements on the site. The report warns that failure to approve the budget could result in the loss of the £2,000,000 Sport England contribution.
Without investment, the report states the current buildings would continue to incur significant costs and may eventually face closure.
