Towcester Centre for Leisure refurbishment to start in August after coronavirus lockdown delay

Work will begin on the major revamp of Towcester Centre for Leisure in August after being halted by the coronavirus pandemic just as it was about to start.

The Springfields leisure centre is getting a full refurbishment of the swimming pool, spa and changing rooms including dedicated disabled changing facilities, additional family changing areas and improved shower facilities.

The gym is also being extended with the addition of a new multi-purpose room with work expected to be completed by April next year.

South Northamptonshire Council portfolio holder for wellbeing Karen Cooper said: “There were bigger things to think about at the time but it was incredibly frustrating that in March workmen were ready to start just as the lockdown commenced.

“Even more frustrating was that with suppliers and contractors understandably self-isolating, it wasn’t possible to get the work done while the centre was closed.

“Incredible work has been done to ensure centre users will be safe and I know the team at Parkwood Leisure who run our centres are champing at the bit to welcome people back.”

The district’s leisure centres in Brackley and Towcester both closed in March in-line with Government guidelines.

After extensive planning to ensure the safety of visitors, the centres welcomed back gym users and exercise groups from Saturday (July 25).

Brackley swimming pool will open later this summer and Towcester pool will remain closed until the revamp is completed.

Measures at both leisure centres to ensure visitors are safe include: spacing out of gym equipment, reduced capacity, and the relocation of exercise classes to larger spaces.

An enhanced cleaning regime has also been put in place, hand sanitiser will be available, and there will be a one-way system at both centres.

Glen Hall, managing director for Parkwood Leisure, said: “We are delighted that the investment into improving the centre is happening now and we look forward to providing what will be a greatly enhanced experience for all the residents of south Northants."