Plans for a major new leisure, wellbeing and community hub at the heart of Cranbrook have been given the go-ahead by East Devon District Council’s (EDDC) Planning Committee.
The decision is an important step forward for plans to create a dedicated community space within the new Leisure and Wellbeing Centre, bringing children’s services and Public Health Nursing together under one roof and making it easier for families to access support.
The wider proposals will deliver a new Leisure and Wellbeing Centre, a future Neighbourhood Health Centre and additional commercial or community infrastructure within Cranbrook town centre, helping to meet the needs of the town’s growing population.
The Leisure and Wellbeing Centre, which has received full planning permission, will include a six-lane 25-metre swimming pool, learner pool, gym, fitness studios, library space, community and clinical spaces, café and soft play facilities, alongside new public spaces, landscaping and parking.
Outline permission has also been granted for a future Neighbourhood Health Centre and additional development that could accommodate commercial facilities or emergency services provision.
The development forms a key part of the long-term vision for Cranbrook town centre and will help provide services, facilities and opportunities closer to where people live.
Cllr Nick Hookway, EDDC Portfolio Holder for Culture, Leisure, Sport and Tourism, said:
“The centre will have two pools, one of 25 metre length and a learner pool with movable floor. The pools will be cleaned with the microfiltration process, which provides the highest possible standard of swimming water, while using less chlorine than traditional methods. This will provide a pleasant and welcoming environment for all visitors.”
Cllr Todd Olive, EDDC Portfolio Holder for Place, Infrastructure and Strategic Planning, said:
“This is a significant milestone for Cranbrook and an important step towards delivering the town centre facilities that residents have long been waiting for.
“The new leisure and wellbeing centre will provide opportunities for people of all ages to be more active, improve their health and wellbeing, access community services and spend time together in a modern, welcoming environment.
“Alongside future health and commercial facilities, this development will help create a vibrant town centre that serves the needs of Cranbrook’s growing community both now and in the future.”
Cllrs Bloxham, Hawkins and Blakely, EDDC ward councillors for Cranbrook together said:
“This is welcome news for Cranbrook residents. As the town continues to grow, it is vital that local facilities keep pace and that people can access more of the services they need close to home. This development will make a real difference to everyday life and strengthen Cranbrook as a place where people can put down roots and feel part of the community.”
The Leisure and Wellbeing Centre has been designed as a landmark civic building and will incorporate renewable energy technologies, including air source heat pumps and solar panels. The wider scheme also includes improvements to public spaces, walking and cycling links, sustainable drainage features and biodiversity enhancements.
Cranbrook is growing quickly and is expected to grow to more than 20,000 residents as future phases of development are completed. The approved facilities form part of the infrastructure planned to support that growth and help establish a thriving town centre for residents, businesses and visitors.
Next steps depend on confirming the necessary funding, procurement and delivery arrangements.
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