Ahead of the opening of Kenilworth's new leisure Centre, construction contractors Kier have formally handed over the building to Warwick District Council today (December 19).

Castle Farm Leisure Centre replaces the old recreation centre with larger much improved facilities encompassing an 80-station gym, two fitness studios, dedicated group cycling studio, a six-court sports hall and new pétanque terrain.

As well as both indoor and outdoor changing rooms the centre has a fully equipped 'changing place' facility, with a hoist and bed to meet the needs of the disabled which can be used by any visitor to the adjacent park or town.

Castle Farm Leisure Centre will officially open from 9am on Thursday (December 21), following a 20-month long project which saw the demolition of the old Castle Farm Recreation Centre.

The building has also received an 'A-rating' for its energy performance, which will provide sustainable energy and support the centre's commitment to a greener future.  

Following the handover of the building from construction contractors Kier, the new leisure centre will be managed and operated by Everyone Active on behalf of the council.

The six-court sport hall (image by James Smith)

The new gym at Castle Farm (image via Everyone Active)

Following the handover of the keys today, selected local media and councillors were given a tour of the new facilities by programme manager Padraig Herlihy.

Mr Herlihy pointed out a number of key features of the development, including the fact the large windows to the front of the building are all designed to give a clear view of the oak tree to the front.

Castle Farm Leisure Centre will offer the following brand-new facilities: 

• 80-station gym  
• Two fitness studios  
• Dedicated group cycling studio  
• Six-court sports hall   
• Stylish changing facilities and lockers  
• New outdoor changing rooms  
• A new pétanque terrain  
• A new light and bright reception area and foyer 

The new reception area will initially just have vending machines installed, but has been designed so a café or kiosk could be opened depending on the demand.

The pétanque offering is also sufficient enough to host a national championship, should the area be selected.

Castle Farm will open on Thursday 21 December (image by James Smith)

One of the two fitness studios (image by James Smith)

The new foyer and seating area (image by James Smith)

White columns have also been installed at the entrance, like those at St Nicholas' and at Newbold Comyn, to make it clear Castle Farm is a 'district-wide facility'.

The centre also incorporates a new HQ for Kenilworth Scout and Guides, predicted to be recognised as amongst the best in the country.

The new base is effectively a second building within the leisure centre, and also includes enough space to store all the gang show equipment, sets and costumes.

The scouts are expected to receive their keys this week and move in over the Christmas period.

Castle Farm also includes a new HQ for local scouts and guides (image by James Smith)

The hallway inside the new scout HQ (image by James Smith)

One of the scouts' activity rooms (image by James Smith)

Chairman of Warwick District Council, Cllr Sidney Syson commented: "It's wonderful to see the addition of this stunning new leisure centre to our district.

"This is the first of a two-stage plan which along with Abbey Fields Swimming Pools will provide the growing town of Kenilworth and surrounding area with facilities that are designed to create an inclusive fitness environment to encourage everyone in our community to benefit from physical activity."

Alex Fuoco-Lang, contract manager for Everyone Active at Castle Farm commented: "We're delighted this project is now complete.

"Our doors are always open to the local community – families and friends of all ages who can come along and experience our fantastic new facilities.

"Our customers will benefit greatly from this investment and the programmes and activities we are planning.

"Not only will it help to provide a hub for the local community, but also work to support our mission - for everyone to reach their target of 30 minutes of exercise, five times a week."

The dedicated cycling studio (image by James Smith)

Stairs leading up the first floor from reception (image by James Smith)

Cllr Jim Sinnott, portfolio holder for communities and leisure at Warwick District Council added: "We're very happy to see the addition of this wonderful new leisure centre to our district.

"This is the first of a two-stage plan which along with Abbey Fields Swimming Pools will provide the growing town of Kenilworth and surrounding area with facilities that are designed to create an inclusive fitness environment to encourage everyone in our community to benefit from physical activity." 

Everyone Active is a sponsor of Kenilworth Nub News.

Without their community-minded sponsorship, we wouldn't be able to bring you local news free from overly-intrusive ads, pop-ups and clickbait.

Follow this link to the website and get in touch.

(image by James Smith)

(image by James Smith)