A new benchmark for community leisure

The opening of Lichfield Leisure Centre is a statement of intent for public leisure centres

The opening of the new Lichfield Leisure Centre at Stychbrook Park marks more than the launch of a building; it represents a statement of intent for community health, inclusion and long-term investment in swimming. Now open and already welcoming residents through its doors, the centre stands as a proud example of what can be achieved when a forward-thinking local authority works in true partnership with an experienced, values-led development partner. From the outset, Lichfield District Council set out an ambitious brief: to replace the ageing provision at Friary Grage with a modern, efficient and welcoming leisure destination that would serve the district for generations. The journey from concept to completion has been collaborative and purposeful, shaped by a shared commitment to social value, sustainability and quality. ReCreation, appointed as development partner following a robust and transparent procurement process, brought not only technical expertise but a deep understanding of aquatic sport and community leisure.

That understanding is rooted in ReCreation’s unique leadership. Founded by Olympians, Adrian Turner, Steve Parry and Rebecca Adlington OBE, the organisation carries elite sporting insight and a shared love of swimming into every project it undertakes. Their experience of world-class facilities, athlete-centred design and the transformative power of swimming has been evident throughout the development. This was not about building to minimum standards; it was about creating a facility that inspires participation, supports talent pathways and makes everyday swimming accessible and enjoyable for all.

A FACILITY DESIGNED FOR PEOPLE AND PERFORMANCE

The completed leisure centre is a contemporary, light-filled building set within the green surroundings of Stychbrook Park. At its heart is a new swimming pool hall designed to accommodate learn-to-swim, fitness swimming, club training and community sessions. Additional facilities –including an indoor cycling studio, 100-station gym, adaptable fitness studio and community room – provide flexible space for health, wellbeing and dry-side activity, while a children’s play area and 3G football pitches encourage wider participation ensuring the centre operates as a true community hub rather than a single-use venue.

At its heart is a new swimming pool hall designed to accommodate learn-to-swim, fitness swimming, club training and community sessions

Delivered over a tightly managed construction programme, the project demonstrates how clarity of vision and partnership working can translate into efficient delivery on site. Modern methods of construction, careful phasing and early engagement with specialist suppliers helped to control risk, reduce disruption and maintain momentum from ground-breaking to opening.

INNOVATION ABOVE GROUND: THE ASTRAL POOLS UK SOLUTION

A defining feature of the project is the above-ground pool solution supplied by Astral Pools UK. Selected through the procurement process for its proven performance and whole-life value, the modular pool tank has delivered significant advantages over traditional in-ground construction.

The above-ground system enabled faster installation and reduced groundworks, contributing to programme certainty and cost control. Financial savings were achieved not only at construction stage but also through the long-term durability of the pool tank. Designed for longevity, the system offers excellent resistance to structural movement and wear, reducing future maintenance liabilities and providing confidence that the pool will remain operational and efficient for decades.

From an operational perspective, the precision engineering of the Astral Pools UK solution supports consistent water quality, thermal efficiency and ease of access for maintenance teams. For users, these technical benefits translate into a high-quality swimming environment: comfortable water temperatures, clean lines of sight and a sense of space and safety.

Briefing

DELIVERING SOCIAL VALUE WHERE IT MATTERS

Beyond bricks, mortar and steel, the true measure of the Lichfield Leisure Centre lies in its social value. Throughout development, the council and ReCreation embedded social outcomes into decision-making. Local employment and supply chain opportunities were prioritised during construction, while the completed facility is already supporting jobs, volunteering and skills development.

The centre is designed to be inclusive and affordable, encouraging participation from all sections of the community. Partnering with Swim England, the facility benefits from Water Wellbeing accreditation, enabling a more inclusive aquatics programme, ongoing support and training for staff, creating a supported environment for those with long term health conditions. Learn-to-swim programmes, school access, disability-friendly design and targeted health initiatives ensures that the benefits of the investment are widely shared. In a time when physical inactivity presents a growing challenge, the new centre plays a vital role in supporting public health, mental wellbeing and social connection.

Environmental responsibility has also been a key consideration. Efficient plant, thoughtful building design and the inherent efficiencies of the above-ground pool system contribute to lower energy consumption and reduced carbon impact. Suds technology and BNG of 20% align the project with wider sustainability goals while boasting Bream Very Good status.

A PARTNERSHIP MODEL FOR THE FUTURE

The relationship between Lichfield District Council and ReCreation has been central to the project’s success. Built on trust, transparency and shared purpose, the partnership model allowed challenges to be addressed collaboratively and opportunities to be maximised. The result is a facility that reflects local needs while benefiting from national and international best practice in aquatic development.

Councillor Doug Pullen, Leader of Lichfield District Council, said: “We are delighted that we have been able to deliver a brand-new leisure centre for the residents of Lichfield District. It is already proving to be very popular offering state-of-the-art sports and fitness facilities, and with its community room and outdoor play area it’s a fantastic hub for the whole community.

“This vitally important leisure centre has been made possible through our collaboration with ReCreation. It has been a positive relationship with both parties working in support of a shared vision. The result is a facility that we are very proud of and one that will enhance the lives of our residents for many years to come.”

As the first swimmers dive in and families make the centre part of their weekly routine, Lichfield Leisure Centre already feels like an established part of the community. Its opening signals a positive future for swimming in the district and sets a benchmark for how councils, developers and specialist partners can work together to deliver lasting value.

The result is a facility that we are very proud of and one that will enhance the lives of our residents for many years to come