Plans approved for £10m Lichfield leisure centre

Lichfield District Council has approved plans to build a new leisure centre in the city.

The £10 million facility at Stychbrook Park, off Curborough Road will replace the ageing Friary Grange Leisure Centre on the city’s Eastern Avenue.

The new facility will feature a 25-metre, six-lane swimming pool with movable floor and poolside seating and changing. There will also be a 80-station fitness gym with assessment room and equipment store, an indoor-cycling studio, dance studio, reception and community room.

Outdoor facilities will include a full-size 3G pitch and changing rooms.

The leisure centre is being designed by ReCreation, a company founded by British Olympians – including swimmer Steve Parry – which provides swimming pools featuring an above-ground design, described as being more affordable than the traditional construction method as it doesn’t require excavation.

Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Deputy Leader, said: “With Friary Grange Leisure Centre nearing the end of its life it is vital that a replacement is built as soon as possible.

“We know how important good leisure facilities are to residents across the district and with the approval, we are major step closer to providing it.”

Construction work is expected to begin later this year.