Plans for a new state-of-the-art leisure centre in Strabane have reached another important milestone with the submission of a planning application for the proposed development at the Canal Basin to Derry City and Strabane District Council.

Members of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Governance and Strategic Planning Committee were this week informed that the submission of the planning application follows an extensive period of public engagement on the proposals and that feedback received through the consultation process has helped to inform the design and proposed mix of facilities within the new centre, ensuring the plans reflect the needs and aspirations of the people who will use it.

The proposed Strabane Leisure Centre will replace the existing Riversdale Leisure Centre, its aims to be a modern, accessible and future-focused facility designed to meet the health, wellbeing and leisure needs of the local community.

Located on a prominent town-centre site bounded by Canal Link, Dock Street and Derry Road, council said the new centre will play an important role in the wider regeneration of the Canal Basin and Strabane town centre.

Planning application submitted for new Strabane Leisure Centre.

placeholder image — Planning application submitted for new Strabane Leisure Centre.

Outlined in a detailed paper at the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee this week, elected members were provided details of the extensive programme of engagement and consultation and how the proposals have been shaped by feedback gathered from residents, sports clubs, community organisations, governing bodies and equality groups over the course of the project.

A spokesperson for the council said an earlier public consultation involving more than 700 people resulted in significant enhancements to the proposed facility mix, including the inclusion of a larger eight-lane swimming pool and double squash courts. As part of the formal pre-planning consultation process, the Council undertook a wide-ranging programme of engagement, including public information events, stakeholder meetings and an online consultation. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with 77% of survey respondents expressing support for the proposed development. Respondents highlighted the importance of high-quality swimming facilities, accessible design, family-friendly amenities and opportunities for wider community use. Young people who participated in a dedicated youth survey also voiced strong support for the project, particularly for enhanced leisure water facilities, fitness provision, social spaces and inclusive design features.

Subject to the planning process, the proposed facilities include a 25-metre, eight-lane swimming pool and training pool including a children’s play area and steam and sauna facilities. It will feature spa facilities, including treatment rooms, infrared sauna and vitality pool as well as a café and foyer and a squash court. There will be multi-purpose rooms and studios as well as a large fitness suite and a dedicated spin studio. The new centre will create exciting opportunities to expand sports, health and wellbeing programmes for people of all ages and abilities. The enhanced facilities will support initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes, encouraging greater participation in physical activity and helping residents to lead healthier, more active lifestyles.

The Council will continue to engage with stakeholders throughout the planning process and subsequent stages of development, as work continues to deliver a modern, accessible and sustainable leisure facility for the Strabane area.