Work to cut carbon emissions and boost sustainability at Deben Leisure Centre in Woodbridge is due to begin next month.

East Suffolk Council is rolling out a major decarbonisation programme across Deben, Leiston and Waterlane Leisure Centres, supporting the authority's goal of reaching net zero emissions.

Co-funded by the Government's Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme and the Council, the project will replace ageing plant, reduce carbon output and improve efficiency to futureproof the facilities.

At Deben, the works include installing an electric air source heat pump system and a new solar‑panelled carport to generate clean electricity. The upgrades are intended to provide more reliable heating and hot water, alongside long‑term operational savings.

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To carry out the works safely, the swimming pool and health suite will be closed from 6 April to 13 July. All other parts of the centre will remain open as usual.

Cllr Sarah Whitelock, East Suffolk's cabinet member for Communities, Culture, Leisure and Tourism said: "These improvements are being carried out as part of our commitment to reduce emissions and lower energy use at our leisure centres and will transform this much-loved community leisure centre into a modern, high-quality, sustainable facility for the community today and for future generations. I am proud that at a time when some councils are having to shut leisure facilities because they are too expensive to operate, we are investing in ours to ensure that residents can take care of their own mental and physical health.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the temporary closure of the swimming pool and would encourage people to explore our other nearby leisure facilities whilst these works are underway."