Lichfield District Council’s approval of plans for a new leisure centre in the city has been welcomed by popular, long-standing, swimming clubs.

The planning committee voted in favour of the new £10 million facility at Stychbrook Park, off Curborough Road, which will provide a brand-new replacement for the ageing Friary Grange Leisure Centre on Eastern Avenue.

The leisure centre will feature a new 25metre, 6 lane variable depth swimming pool to include poolside seating and changing, and 80-station fitness gym with assessment room and equipment store, a Spin studio, a dance studio, reception, community room, external 3G pitch and new outdoor changing rooms.

Andrew Gibson, Vice Chair of Penguins Swimming Club for the Disabled, said: “I think the leisure centre decision is fantastic. The council has engaged positively with us, they have listened and taken on board our comments. We feel we have been involved in the process.

“The new changing facilities are over and above what is on offer at the Friary Grange and the design of the new pool will help build water confidence.

“We are very excited to see the new pool – it can’t come soon enough.”

The Vice Chair of Lichfield Swimming Club, Angel Wood, added: “A new upgraded pool is vital to the continued growth of Lichfield Swimming Club. 

“The new pool will enhance growth and enable us to continue to provide a much-needed community club in the area, allowing children and adults to access the physical and mental wellbeing that such a sport and club provides.”

The decision has also been welcomed by The Friends of Friary Grange. Caroline Fellows, representing the group, said: “A leisure centre is more important than ever for Lichfield. The placement of the leisure centre in the north Lichfield area is a statement that leisure facilities are for everyone.”

The leisure centre is being designed by ReCreation, a company founded by British Olympians, which uses a unique above-ground swimming pool design which is more affordable than the traditional construction method which requires excavation.

Following consultation on the design, the latest lighting technology will be considered to minimise light pollution, highways experts will resolve traffic challenges and biodiversity experts will ensure that the environment around the new facility is enhanced.

Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Leisure, Parks and Major Projects, said: “I am delighted that the planning committee has approved plans for this new facility. With Friary Grange Leisure Centre nearing the end of its life it is vital that a replacement is built as soon as possible.

“We know how important good leisure facilities are to residents across the district and with the approval tonight, we are major step closer to providing it.”