Plans for the replacement of Spalding’s Castle Sports Complex have been changed and the project delayed, it’s been announced.
South Holland District Council now say it is looking at starting work next April for a Summer 2026 completion after changing parts of its plans for the £20m government funding project.
The changes include the abandoning of the plan to make the floor of the swimming pool changeable, something called for by local groups. Instead the floor would be fixed.
Others include the introduction of a new ‘running loop’ with 100metre sprint straight, and ‘improved cycling provision’ including alternative ‘roller’ and ‘rock garden’ features along with ‘Go Ride’ circuit markings and bike stands.
“Internally, adjustments have been made to the layout of the dry facilities, providing a ground floor fitness suite and studios on the existing first floor, with changes to the configuration of the four-court sports hall to ensure it can cater for as many activities as possible,” a spokesman for South Holland District Council said.
“These changes, which have been submitted to the planning application this week, are designed to listen to the feedback for both the provision and build condition of the facility, and give it the best possible chance of receiving the required permissions for construction to get underway.
Coun Gary Taylor, South Holland District Council’s project sponsor, said: “I am delighted that we can submit these updated proposals for the new health and wellbeing hub, that bring us a step closer to work getting underway and these fantastic, transformational new facilities becoming a reality for South Holland.
“Global factors and the construction market have changed significantly since the original bid was made, and it is important that we respond to these factors, and the feedback from local and national bodies, to put forward an exciting scheme that delivers a quality new Health and Wellbeing Hub for as many of our residents as possible, and safeguards the district’s access to quality swimming and leisure facilities for many years to come.”
The district council says it now hopes the plans will go before its own Planning Committee in January.