Plans to refurbish the Hydro in Harrogate have been approved by Harrogate Borough Council’s planning committee.
The project, which is expected to start in April, will see the leisure centre extended and refurbished, along with a new 400sqm fitness suite, improved reception and café, an upgrade of the existing spin and dance class facilities and improved disabled access.
The car park will also be reconfigured as well as new bicycle storage and six electric vehicle charging points, and energy efficiency measures will be implemented such as installing heat pumps and solar panels.
Cllr Stanley Lumley, Harrogate Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism and Sport, and Chair of the board of directors at Brimhams Active, said: ‘I’m delighted that the planning committee has approved the plans to redevelop the Hydro in Harrogate. This multi-million pound refurbishment project will create exciting new opportunities for local people to move more, live well and feel great.
‘Our vision is to create a healthier and more active population that are living longer, more independent and happier lives. And by creating first-class facilities like this we’ll be able to deliver the aims and objectives of Brimhams Active.’
Mark Tweedie, Managing Director of Brimhams Active, added: ‘Through the provision of fantastic modern leisure and wellness facilities and engaging, inclusive services we will be able to help many more people become active and lead healthier lifestyles.’
In related news, public leisure centres in Oxford are getting £10.9m investment in decarbonisation, as part of the City Council’s plans to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030.
The Council Cabinet confirmed that Ferry Leisure, Barton Leisure, Leys Pool and Leisure and Hinksey Outdoor Pool will benefit from the decarbonisation programme.
Photo by Danielle Cerullo