Background to the new leisure facility developments
In 2005, the Council commissioned Capita Symonds to undertake a feasibility study into the proposed development of new sport and leisure facilities that would meet the demands and expectations of the local community. The study focused on two potential solutions that had been identified in the Sport and Recreation Facilities Strategy:
- a replacement of Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre with a new sports centre development in St Albans; and
- a replacement of Bricket Wood Sports Centre and London Colney Recreation Centre with one new facility serving the people living in the south of the District.
A number of alternative development options were considered for both facilities, as was the preferred location for the Westminster Lodge development, and the most appropriate funding and procurement method for the Council.
Initial design concepts were prepared as part of the original feasibility study, to provide a vision for both leisure developments, following the detailed evaluation of a range of affordability, community and deliverability criteria.
The outline concepts and costing's were considered by Cabinet in late 2006, where Members indicated their preference for the development of:
- A new leisure facility at Westminster Lodge that incorporates provision in-line with the opportunities currently found on the site to a 21st Century standard, with additional health and fitness provision, a dedicated youth facility and, subject to funding, a 4 court sports hall. Click here to go to our section on Westminster Lodge.
- A new leisure facility on Cotlandswick Open Space, London Colney, subject to the identification of appropriate funding and an innovative means of delivering the project. Click here to go to our section on the new centre.