Plans for new Ely Leisure Centre progress following submission of reserved matters application

Plans to provide Ely with a multi-million pound new leisure centre have moved a step closer.East Cambridgeshire District Council announced on 5 April that it has submitted a reserved matters planning application for the new centre.The scheme has been granted outline planning permission to be built on land adjacent to Ely Rugby Club under the hybrid planning application for the Cineworld complex, building work for which started yesterday (Monday).However, the plans have to go through the reserved matters process to agree the design and layout of the site.The council says the tender processes to procure an operator to run the new centre – and a contractor to build it – are also underway.In November 2014, the council agreed the mix of facilities which the centre would have to address the existing gaps in provision, meet future demands; and be cost effective to operate.These are:Eight lane 25m swimming poolLearner pool with moveable floor120 station gymTwo dance studiosFour court sports hall3G all weather pitch