A recent survey found that 87% of respondents are still backing plans for the new centre.

It will include a 25 metre, six lane swimming pool. The pool will have a moveable floor to adjust the depth of the water for swimming lessons and there will also be a spectators’ area, steam room and sauna.

The new centre’s gym will accommodate high spec cardiovascular and resistance equipment, along with free weight training areas.

The fitness and dance studio will be a multipurpose space to cater for the latest trends in fitness, be lined and double standard height to accommodate badminton. The room will also be suitable for community activities.

There will also be a flexible community space with a tea prep area. 

Council Leader Joe Fagan said: “The current Larkhall Leisure Centre has held a special place in the heart of the Larkhall community for decades.

“The new facility will be a brand-new state-of the-art leisure centre which the community can be proud of, and which is fit for generations to come. 

“We would like to thank all those who came along to the community drop-in sessions in October and November this year to review the initial plans for the new Larkhall Leisure Centre.

“The concept designs were developed based on the outcomes from a previous consultation exercise in 2022 which identified the highest priorities for the new centre to be a swimming pool, gym, multipurpose space suitable for fitness activities, and a health suite.

“At that time, it was advised that due to budget pressures a like-for-like replacement facility was not possible, but we will do the best we can with the budget available and we will maximise the use of facilities at the adjacent Larkhall Academy to create a sports and leisure campus for the community.

“With a budget of £23.9 million, the new Larkhall Leisure Centre will be the most expensive facility, out with the secondary schools’ programme, the council has built.” 

Proposals are also being progressed for Larkhall Academy to become a ‘dual use facility’ which will improve access and bookings and create a campus of community and sports accommodation.

The school has a four court games hall and two gyms, which can accommodate several sports including badminton, indoor football, basketball and more.

An update on these arrangements will be provided in the new year, and the community will continue to be updated at key stages of the project.

The community will continue to be updated at key stages of the project.