Home / Arts and Entertainment / Oasis Leisure Centre Faces Housing Threat
Oasis Leisure Centre Faces Housing Threat
30 Oct
Summary
- Iconic Swindon Oasis leisure centre closed in 2020.
- Plans for 700 flats were refused, but refurbishment is approved.
- Campaigners cite unsustainable infrastructure for housing.
Campaigners are calling for increased support to reopen Swindon's "iconic" Oasis leisure centre, which closed in 2020. Councillors previously approved a developer's plan to refurbish the venue, including its famous lagoon pool and dome, but rejected proposals for 700 associated homes. At a recent event discussing Swindon's Local Plan, residents voiced concerns over the Oasis's future.
The Local Plan, a blueprint for housing and infrastructure over the next two decades, states a priority is supporting new leisure facilities. However, the developer, Seven Capital, faced refusal for its housing plans and is expected to submit a revised application. Campaigners argue that prioritizing housing over leisure facilities is unsustainable for the town's infrastructure.
Concerns have also been raised about the potential loss of a sports hall if the site is redeveloped for housing. A public consultation on the Local Plan proposals is ongoing until November 12. The council aims to enhance the town centre with new leisure and cultural facilities, and up to 3,800 new homes could be built in the central area.
