Chelmsford City Council’s ‘biggest ever’ community scheme, Riverside Leisure Centre, comprises: a 25m, 10-lane swimming pool with a moveable floor; a toddler-friendly sensory splash zone and fun pool with flume; a 130-station gym; health and fitness studios; an Ofsted-registered creche; soft play facility; fully accessible changing rooms; a spacious reception foyer; and an airy cafe with terrace overlooking the River Chelmer. It also has space for 80 bicycles, in a bid to encourage greener methods of travel to the centre.
Independent property, construction and infrastructure consultancy Pick Everard delivered all of the design and costing services for the flagship scheme.
The original 1960s building has been completely redeveloped and is now both cost and energy efficient – having been awarded a ‘very good’ BREEAM sustainability rating.
Keith Prendergast, director at Pick Everard, said: “Riverside Leisure Centre represents Chelmsford City Council’s biggest ever single investment for a project for the community. It has created a real gateway to the city centre; and one which delivers real social value.”
The centre has already seen its admissions increase by approximately 25% since it opened in June – and is on track for one million visits in its first operational year.
Justin Ashworth, associate at Pick Everard, said: “The design of the new Riverside Leisure Centre seamlessly connects the new building to the city centre and enhances the existing riverside walk – which is a one-and-a-half or two-and-a-half-mile route along the River Chelmer.
“The spin studio looks out over the riverside walk and acts as an impressive canopy to the entrance. This is a really strong focal point.”
Keith added: “LED bulbs have been used throughout, which turn off automatically when they’re not in use. They’re also controlled by sensors to illuminate the complex depending on the daylight hours. The exterior is truly impressive in the evening, with sensitive blue lighting enhancing the dramatic frontage to this iconic building.”
