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The future of a proposed new leisure centre in Trowbridge will be decided next week, as Wiltshire Council's Strategic Planning Committee meets on 11 December.
The planning officer has recommended the application for approval, subject to conditions, with the committee set to make the final decision at its 10:30am session.
If approved, the leisure centre will be built on the council's East Wing site, located on Bythesea Road, opposite County Hall.
The planning application, submitted in September 2024, followed extensive community engagement. Around 700 people attended drop-in sessions across the town in June, and 692 residents provided feedback via a survey. The process aimed to ensure local voices were considered in shaping the project.
The proposed leisure centre features a modern industrial design that reflects Trowbridge’s heritage, with a glazed façade and a welcoming entrance. Accessibility has been prioritized in the internal design, while the project adopts a fabric-first approach to energy efficiency.
Key sustainability features include:
• Solar panels to power the all-electric building.
• Landscaping to create a green island in Trowbridge with integrated walking, cycling, and wheeling routes.
The new leisure centre would include:
• 25m six-lane swimming pool.
• Learner pool (7m x 13m).
• 120-station gym, two studios, and immersive spin studio.
• TAGactive adventure play for youth (ages 12-16).
• Community meeting room and café.
• Live Well suite for older adults.
Some facilities, such as diving amenities, a sports hall, and squash courts, will not be included. However, the dry side elements of the Trowbridge Sports Centre at Clarendon are expected to be retained, and discussions with Acorn Education Trust are ongoing.
Should the committee grant planning permission, the project will proceed to Wiltshire Council’s Cabinet for final approval early next year. The leisure centre is positioned to become a cornerstone of the community, providing state-of-the-art facilities while supporting the council’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.
