When will the new Forest of Dean leisure centre construction begin?

The council is appointing contractors and will communicate a specific start date for construction in the coming weeks.

What facilities will the Five Acres leisure centre include?

The centre will feature a gym, soft play area, cafe, party rooms, fitness studios, and a satellite site for Hartpury University.

Why were there delays in the Forest of Dean leisure centre project?

Delays were attributed to rising material costs and were deemed essential by the council for the project's long-term financial and environmental sustainability.

Home / Business and Economy / £9m Forest of Dean Leisure Centre Finally Gets Green Light

£9m Forest of Dean Leisure Centre Finally Gets Green Light

21 Jan

•

Summary

Plans for the £9m indoor leisure centre at Five Acres have received approval.
The facility will feature a gym, soft play, cafe, and a Hartpury University site.
Council aims for a facility serving the Forest of Dean community for many years.

£9m Forest of Dean Leisure Centre Finally Gets Green Light

Plans for a £9 million indoor leisure centre in the Forest of Dean have been given the go-ahead by the District Council after experiencing significant delays. The project, located at Five Acres in Berry Hill, near Coleford, will now move forward with plans to set a construction start date.

The new facility is set to include a gym, a soft play area, and a cafe, alongside a satellite site for Hartpury University. Previously, plans for a 3G pitch at the same location were approved in December. The council acknowledged resident frustration over the delays but stated they were essential for ensuring the project's long-term financial and environmental sustainability.

Updated designs have incorporated a wide range of accessible features to ensure the building can be used by everyone in the community, regardless of age or ability. The leisure centre, situated at the former Royal Forest of Dean College site, will also boast dedicated party rooms, power-assisted exercise facilities, group fitness studios, and a fully equipped 53-station gym. The upper floors of the Speedwell Building are designated for office and community spaces, including the Hartpury University outreach facility.