Energy-efficient £17.5m Knaresborough centre opens

A new £17.5m leisure complex in Knaresborough, Yorkshire, will produce 60 per cent less carbon than the previous leisure centre on the site – while offering residents improved health and fitness opportunities.

The new-build centre, developed by Alliance Leisure, was originally commissioned by Harrogate Borough Council and is now part of a wider £47.9 million leisure transformation project by the newly Combined North Yorkshire Council.

The centre houses a six-lane 25-metre pool, a leisure pool with flume, a 60-station fitness suite, a studio for group fitness classes, a bespoke group cycling studio, sauna and steam rooms, a café and an outdoor children’s play area.

Making the new facility as environmentally friendly as possible – and energy-efficient, due to rising costs – was a key consideration. As a result, the building’s sustainable design includes a number of eco-friendly measures. There are no gas boilers, for example – instead, air-source heat pumps and solar panels provide a source of renewable energy for operations. Other solutions include LED lighting, upgraded building management systems and improved electrical supplies.

Electric car charge points and bicycle storage have also been added to encourage sustainable travel.

The Knaresborough Leisure and Wellness Centre is managed by Brimhams Active, a community health and wellbeing company, and is wholly owned by North Yorkshire Council.