The latest updates to exciting plans for a multimillion-pound leisure and community centre in Central Parade are being presented to the public this Friday and Saturday.
The £17.5m proposals include a new multi-level leisure and community centre, improved community space and the facilities for a range of sports to be played, including badminton and basketball.
People are being offered the chance of viewing and commenting on the revised plans, in the former library building, on
• Friday 22 April between 2pm and 6pm; and
• Saturday 23 April between 11am and 4pm.
Local people helped shape the priorities and told the council that, in addition to a community centre offering fresh, modern facilities, they were keen to see a new, state-of-the-art leisure centre incorporated into the plans.
This second opportunity, following an initial presentation in February, will give residents the chance to view the developing proposals, and to voice their opinions, ask questions and get answers from the planning and design teams.
The community centre proposals feature two multi-purpose halls – each with kitchen space – a café, meeting rooms, offices and dressing rooms, and there is the option of licence applications for booked events. A demountable stage will be available for community shows and the ever-popular annual panto.
The council’s aim is that the centre will be inviting and exciting, and offer flexible spaces that appeal to, and can be used and enjoyed by, all sectors of the community.
While some parking provision is planned, the building’s position on the site would ensure easy access from Central Parade for pedestrians and the disabled.
Proposals for the new leisure centre include a 25-metre, six-lane main swimming and a learning pool. Other facilities in the complex will include a café, fitness suite, sport hall, crèche and studios.
Councillor Alison Butler, deputy leader and cabinet member for homes, regeneration and planning
“The feedback we’ve so far had from the people of New Addington has been really positive; they’re keen to see their area benefit from this sort of first-class regeneration, that they know will enhance and improve their lives.
“We’ve listened to the comments and suggestions made at the first presentations, and are confident that these revised plans will fulfil local needs.
“This scheme is set to transform both Central Parade and New Addington as a whole. I’d like to see as many people as possible get along to the exhibition to see how the plans have developed, to see that their views and opinions matter to us.”
For more information, email the senior regeneration manager at mark.adams@croydon.gov.uk
