Leisure provision across Ashfield is on the up, says Ashfield District Council.

As work continues on Kirkby’s new state-of-the-art leisure centre, the council is looking forward to discovering the successful tenderer for its construction.

Plans for the multi-million pound facility took a step forward when plans were approved at Planning Committee in June.

Following two successful consultation periods, the council submitted a planning application for the build in March.

The consultation period provided insight into what is important to users of the existing leisure centre and all stakeholders.

Council officers worked closely with local residents who live adjacent to the new site as part of the planning process.

The council is also making progress in appointing a new Leisure Operating Contractor. The successful bidders will operate from April 2021 onwards for 10 years with the option of extending for a further five years.

The final submissions in October will include parameters for bidders such as the plans for a second swimming facility at Hucknall Leisure Centre.

As well as the additional swimming space, multi-million pound plans for Hucknall Leisure Centre include improved changing facilities and a new mezzanine floor to extend the fitness suite.

Coun Kier Barsby, Portfolio Holder for Health and Leisure, said: “It’s obvious that leisure is a high priority for us here at Ashfield District Council because we know how important it is for our residents.

“We understand the health and social benefits that these facilities provide for people across Ashfield so by investing in continuous improvement, we know we are heading in the right direction.

“Our work in progressing towards a new Leisure Operating Contractor will also stand us in good stead for years to come.

“It is vital that the successful bidders understand our vision for continued progression and share our passion for providing a quality service for our residents.”