Green light for a new Farnborough Leisure Centre

From my work in the community, it is clear that Farnborough urgently needs a new swimming pool.

The previous leisure centre was demolished by the Conservative Council in 2021, with the promise to replace it with an expensive ‘civic quarter’. But, the development soon stalled when it became clear that there was no viable plan to pay for it.

I was determined that generations of local children should not miss out, particularly since swimming is not just great fun and good exercise, it’s a vital life skill.

So, I raised the need for a new Leisure Centre in Farnborough at Prime Minister’s Questions in October 2024, within weeks of being elected.  I was delighted to hear Keir Starmer confirm that the Government will work with Rushmoor Council to address the funding challenges to provide the local services that residents need.

I’m pleased to say that Ministers are now working actively to support the plans drawn up by Gareth Williams and Rushmoor Council to build a new leisure centre for our community. I will continue to work with them to ensure it is delivered as soon as possible.

The new facility will include:

• 25-metre swimming pool 
• Learner pool 
• 100 fitness station fitness gym
• Three exercise studios 
• Wellness hub with power-assisted equipment
• Toddler and adventure play area 
• Café 

A planning application for the centre is expected to be submitted later this year, with building work starting in spring 2026, and opening is scheduled for autumn 2027.

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