Bradford Council has been urged to move forward with plans for a new leisure centre at Squire Lane, despite the estimated cost of the project increasing by £5 million.
A report due to be considered by the council’s executive says the scheme’s projected cost has risen from £27.9 million to £32.9 million because of ongoing construction cost inflation.
Council officers have warned that delaying the project could push costs even higher and potentially jeopardise £20 million in government funding that must be spent by March 2028.
The proposed leisure centre, located near Bradford Royal Infirmary, has been more than a decade in the making and has faced multiple delays and funding challenges. Original plans for a £48.8 million development included a health centre delivered in partnership with the NHS. However, the NHS withdrew from the project in 2022, forcing the council to redesign the scheme on a smaller scale.
Planning permission for the revised development was approved earlier this year. The facility would include a six-lane 25-metre swimming pool, a learner pool, fitness gym, studio spaces and a 120-space car park.
A report to councillors says construction could begin soon, with the centre potentially opening by autumn 2028 if approval is granted. The report states: “The project remains highly time-sensitive.”
It adds that the current contract price is only secured until 31 July, 2026, and warns that delays could result in increased costs or delivery beyond the funding deadline.
Council officers also argue that failing to proceed could damage Bradford’s chances of securing similar government investment in future.
Part of the additional funding package would come from Clean Air Zone revenue, with around £600,000 proposed for alternative heating systems and electric vehicle charging infrastructure within the development.
The scheme has attracted criticism, particularly over its location in Bradford’s inner city while swimming pools in areas such as Bingley and Queensbury have closed. However, the report defends the choice of location, arguing that communities around Squire Lane face significant health inequalities and barriers to accessing sport and physical activity.
It highlights evidence showing lower participation rates in exercise, higher levels of deprivation and increased demand for sports facilities in the surrounding area.
Despite the investment, the report predicts the leisure centre will require an annual subsidy of around £500,000 once operational, with running costs expected to exceed income.
Bradford Council’s Executive was due to consider the recommendation at its meeting on 14 July.
