Leisure centre set for £3.1m energy efficiency refit

A leisure centre is set for a £3.1m refit to improve its energy efficiency.

Described by West Berkshire Council as a "major green upgrade" the revamp will see Northcroft Leisure Centre in Newbury fitted with air source heat pumps, new wall insulation and solar panels.

The refit at the centre that has a 25m (82ft) main pool and smaller teaching pool, a gym, exercise studios and heated 50m (164ft) outdoor summer lido is set to start in 2026 and finish by March 2027.

The work is being paid for by a £2.8m grant from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme and an additional £387,000 from West Berkshire Council.

Everyone Active, who manage the centre on the council's behalf, said the work would be carefully planned to minimise disruption for centre users.

It is hoped the retrofit work will help reduce carbon emissions and contribute to the council's goal of reaching net zero.

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