Work to 'modernise' sports centre gets under way

Sports users have been warned to expect disruption as work to "modernise" a sports centre gets underway.

A bigger gym, refurbished studio and a consultation room are being built at Wiltshire Council-run Warminster Sports Centre.

The gym and swimming pool will remain open during the revamp, which is expected to be completed by spring.

Councillor Ian Blair-Pilling, the council's cabinet member for leisure, said: "We assure that any disruption during this period will be well worth it come the end result."

He added that the refurbishment "will modernise the building and encourage more people of all ages" to access the facilities.

Beard Construction, which is carrying out the work, confirmed there will not be any changes for swimming pool users, but there will be fewer exercise classes.

The council also confirmed the squash courts will be permanently removed, with people being encouraged to travel to Leighton Recreation Centre, about four miles (6.4km) away, instead.

Warminster Broadway councillor Tony Jackson previously said shutting the courts was a "waste of public money by Wiltshire Council".

He added that the closure would affect the Scorpion Squash Club, which relied on using the courts.

But, Mr Blair-Pilling insisted closing the courts was necessary. He said the council's figures showed there were not "many regular squash players and the courts are under-used and not financially viable".

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