A councillor is bemused plans for a new leisure centre in Epping do not include a sports hall.
Cllr Janet Whitehouse, Epping Forest District councillor voiced her surprise in discovering the proposed centre will not provide facilities offered at the existing centre in Hemnall Lane – set to be demolished to make way for new homes.
The councillor for Epping Hemnall said: “Many residents are shocked to discover that there is no sports hall in the new Leisure Centre plans. They want to continue playing sports such as badminton, five-a-side football, walking netball and squash which they enjoy at the existing Epping Sports Centre.
“I encourage residents to make their views known at the exhibition next week and by responding to the online consultation.”
The new £25 million leisure centre – to be delivered by council-owned company Qualis – will be built in the Bakers Lane carpark site, rather than the St John’s Site as had been initially proposed.
Plans consist of a six-lane 25 metre swimming pool and a 10 metre by 15 metre teaching pool with lifting floor.
The centre will boast a 100-station gym, three 40-person studios, a health suite with a spa, sauna and treatment rooms, a soft play area and a small coffee shop - but no sports hall.
A Qualis spokesperson said: “Following extensive work to ensure that the best location is proposed, a new £25 million leisure centre could now be delivered on Bakers Lane car park.
“Qualis Commercial’s vision proposes that the neighbouring houses are properly screened with landscaping and tree planting along with every consideration given to light, noise and traffic. The location of this new facility will potentially also create increased footfall to the High Street and generate a real energy for the walkable town centre.
“Qualis Commercial will deliver quality sites that are considerate of the heritage of the area and create cohesive communities, but unlike other developers who keep any profits made, Qualis will reinvest profits back to EFDC so that they can continue to develop council housing, keep council tax low and deliver the quality services that residents deserve.”
A socially-distanced public exhibition will open from Monday, September 7 to Saturday, September 12 at St John's Church, Epping.
Residents can also view the online consultation is at: www.workingtogetherforepping.commonplace.is
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