A planning application has been lodged for the partial rebuild of West Wickham Leisure Centre, marking a major step forward in the £22 million redevelopment project.

The proposed designs feature a red brick exterior inspired by the newly reopened West Wickham Library. Plans include a new café, gym, reception area, changing rooms, and a competition-length swimming pool. Subject to planning approval, demolition works are expected to begin in the coming weeks, following the council’s approval of the funding in July. Refurbishment works on other parts of the centre, including the learner pool, are continuing.

Councillor Yvonne Bear, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing, said: "This is an important step towards the delivery of this new state-of-the-art leisure centre, with the attractive designs seeking to further tie together our public spaces in West Wickham. We are in a fairly unique position among local authorities of being able to press ahead with a substantial investment in our leisure provision, and I know many residents will be excited to see further progress on site shortly as we secure this centre for many years to come."

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Once validated, the planning application will be published on the council’s Planning Portal for public comment. A separate application for the proposed partial demolition has also been submitted.

The revised redevelopment plan follows structural assessments carried out after asbestos removal. These revealed that part of the building was beyond economic repair, prompting the need for demolition and rebuilding. While this has altered the project timeline, with reopening now expected in early 2028, the new approach is intended to offer greater long-term certainty and reduce future maintenance costs.

Steve May, CEO of Mytime Active, the charitable trust managing the borough’s leisure facilities on behalf of the council, said: "The partial rebuild will not only preserve a much-loved community asset, it will significantly enhance the experience for our customers – from upgraded fitness facilities and a brand new pool to modern changing areas and a vibrant cafe. With improved accessibility and a more welcoming environment, West Wickham will be transformed into a fit-for-purpose, inclusive health and wellbeing hub that better meets the needs of all of our community."

Specialist leisure developer Alliance Leisure will continue to lead the project for the council, working with main contractor Etec Group through the UK Leisure Framework.

The leisure centre was closed last year after initial structural issues were identified. Enabling works, including asbestos removal, have already been completed, allowing the rebuild to progress without delay once approvals are secured.