Plans finalised for £2m Ulverston centre project

Detailed plans to invest in the future sport and leisure provision in Ulverston, Cumbria, are set to be finalised this year.

Westmorland and Furness Council said that “clarity had now been confirmed” around available funding, so work on a phased approach to improving facilities could press ahead.

The council plans further engagement with users and sports clubs based at Ulverston Leisure Centre on Priory Road, which will inform the final plans.

The initial phase of the work, funded by £2million from Westmorland and Furness Council, will concentrate on essential improvements to existing facilities at the centre. Ulverston Leisure Centre is operated on behalf of the council by GLL.

Facilities at the centre currently include a 25 metre swimming pool, health and fitness club with a gym and group exercise studio, as well as Cumbria’s largest tennis centre. Outdoor facilities include a 3G football pitch.

The intention is to shift from a “pure leisure offer” to an “innovative and modern active wellbeing service for all”.

Councillor Vicky Hughes, Westmorland and Furness Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Active Wellbeing, said: “We’re now able to progress with the first phase of work, now that we have a better understanding of the available funding.

“Engagement with centre users and local sports groups and clubs has given us a good understanding of how the current facilities are used and how they could be improved.”