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# Approval of plans for new Lichfield leisure centre welcomed by local swimming clubs
- URL: https://lichfieldlive.co.uk/approval-of-plans-for-new-lichfield-leisure-centre-welcomed-by-local-swimming-clubs/
- Published: 2024-01-16T07:57:14.000Z
- Updated: 2024-01-16T07:57:25.000Z
- Description: The decision to approve plans for a new leisure centre in Lichfield have been welcomed by local swimming clubs.
- Author: Lichfield Live
- Tags: Politics, Sport, #wp, #wp-post, #Import 2026-07-22 18:58, News

The decision to approve plans for a new leisure centre in Lichfield have been welcomed by local swimming clubs.

Members of Lichfield District Council’s planning committee voted in favour of the new £10million facility at Stychbrook Park at a meeting last night (15th January), paving the way for work to start on the development.

The centre will replace the nearby Friary Grange Leisure Centre, with features including a six-lane variable depth swimming pool.

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.”  
>  
> Andrew Gibson

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

The vice chair of Lichfield Swimming Club, Angel Wood, said:

> “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.”  
>  
> Angel Wood

Other features at the facility will include a gym, studios, community room and a new 3G pitch.

There had been opposition from neighbours concerned about the impact of the new centre.

But the council said that steps would be considered to minimise light pollution, while highways experts will seek to resolve traffic challenges.

Cllr 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 we are major step closer to providing it.”  
>  
> Cllr Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council