The Forest of Dean District Council has approved scaled-back plans for a new leisure centre at Five Acres, moving forward amid concerns over funding deadlines and community expectations.
Originally granted £9.2 million in levelling-up funds in 2021, the project has faced several hurdles, including a council decision last year to borrow an additional £1.8 million to keep the scheme alive. The deadline to spend the funding has now been extended to March 2026, allowing the council to initiate the revised development.
The new first phase will see the refurbishment of the Speedwell building, located on the former Royal Forest of Dean College site in Berry Hill. Ground floor plans include soft play areas, two party rooms, and toilet facilities. The first floor will house two multi-use community rooms and a cycling exercise studio, while the second floor is designated for Hartpury College with seven rooms.
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An extension to the Speedwell building is also planned, featuring a café, kitchen, and changing facilities for two teams, officials, and associated toilets and showers. The upper level will accommodate an exercise studio and gym with additional changing rooms.
The council intends to bring forward the previously approved sports hall in a second phase, though this is not yet guaranteed. Development manager Clive Reynolds explained the phased approach allows construction to commence within current financial and timeline constraints, even if later phases may not proceed immediately.
Berry Hill councillors Tim Gwilliam and Jamie Elsmore expressed mixed feelings, acknowledging the plan as a compromise that falls short of initial community ambitions, particularly missing a swimming pool and the envisioned revitalised Forest theatre. They emphasized the project’s importance, recognizing the loss of the old sports centre as a significant blow to local sports, arts, and education.
Concerns were also raised about the partial delivery of facilities. Councillor John Francis highlighted potential risks if the project remains incomplete and questioned the future of the invested funds. Chairman Dave Wheeler agreed this concern warrants further discussion beyond the committee meeting.
Despite reservations, the proposals were approved with 11 votes in favour and one abstention, allowing the council to push ahead with this crucial step to enhance the Forest of Dean’s leisure infrastructure.