PLANNING chiefs have given the green light to amendments to plans for Wyre Forest’s new multi-million pound leisure centre.

Wyre Forest District Council’s planning committee approved the amendments to the previous plans at their meeting on Tuesday evening (April 19).

During the construction of the new leisure centre – which is on track for a summer 2016 opening – it has been necessary for the scheme to be amended to meet operational and construction demands.

The amendments include altering the parking provision by nine spaces, from 180 car parking spaces to 171, but to introduce nine motorcycle spaces. The previous provision of nine disabled spaces and 18 cycle spaces remains unchanged.

Other changes have been made to the internal layout of the building including moving the sauna, steam room and first aid area from the side of the main pool to the end of the pool immediately adjoining the plant room.

The report states: “The amendments as submitted have been as a result of changes to reflect the detailed design and construction stages to ensure that all aspects of the design accord with specific operational requires and strategies.

“The changes are acceptable and do not result in movement away from the quality of design originally approved.”

The new £11.9 million state-of-the-art centre – which will be designed, built, operated and maintained by Places for People Leisure after they were awarded a 25-year contract – will include a six-lane 25m swimming pool, learner pool, dance studios, sports hall, climbing wall, fitness suite and small outdoor football pitches.

A café with viewing facilities, a children’s play area, a health suite equipped with sauna and steam room and free parking will also be available.

The opening of the new leisure centre will see the closure of Kidderminster’s Wyre Forest Glades Leisure Centre and Stourport Sports Centre, while Bewdley Leisure Centre will remain open.

For more information visit wyreforestdc.gov.uk/newleisurecentre.