to improve the leisure centres at

The Walnuts and West Wickham are moving forward following executive approval to move to the next stage of design works.

The emerging plans would see upgrades to the gyms, swimming pools, changing rooms, cafés, studios and seating areas, with a redesign of the buildings and new modern facilities provided.

Further detailed costing and technical designs are now being produced, with this information anticipated to come forward in the spring.

Subject to further approval and tendering, works could then begin in the latter half of 2024.

The improved sites would then be expected to be completed in 2026, with the decision also being made that one pool would be kept open throughout this period, so each is refurbished in turn.

This decision follows extensive engagement with residents and service users in West Wickham and Orpington, with feedback helping shape plans for the centres.

A Bromley Council spokesperson said: “We want to see first-class leisure facilities at both these important sites and have been developing these exciting plans, bearing in mind the priorities raised by the residents and communities who will benefit from them.

“While we are being mindful of the costs, especially given the challenging conditions in construction currently, it is great to be moving forward with this major investment in the borough’s leisure provision, underlining Bromley Council's commitment to the health and wellbeing of its residents."

Jason Stanton, CEO at Mytime Active - the borough’s longstanding leisure provider, said: “It is wonderful to see these plans moving forward, showing how important health and leisure is in Bromley.

“The way people look after their wellbeing is changing and, while Mytime Active is constantly adapting to ensure we provide new opportunities across the borough for residents to stay fit and healthy, the underlying facilities are also key in delivering high quality leisure provision.

“We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with Bromley Council and creating fitfor-purpose wellness destinations across the borough.”

Alliance Leisure, a specialist company for leisure centre redevelopment, will continue to take forward the next stage of the plans, having been appointed on the project in 2023, including on the resident engagement.