I have been a dedicated customer of the Bramcote Leisure Centre for over two decades. Like many others, I value the health suite, jacuzzi, sauna, and swimming pool for their significant contribution to our well-being, leisure, and socializing opportunities. Recently, the proposed new build has dishearteningly overlooked these vital facilities and several others.

Engagement with us, the users of the centre, prior to planning has been woefully insufficient. We've not been consulted or considered while deciding the features to include, and the architects have even claimed that the new leisure centre “will continue to fulfil its existing role”, which it will not.

To date, public concerns around the lack of a heath suite, a reduction in depth, length and a spectator’s area for swimming meets, have not been addressed. These facilities may not meet the stipulated 25m required for competitions, facilitate scuba diving activities, or enable parents and spectators to enjoy such sports.

Previously, the centre accommodated adults with disabilities via its sensory whirlpool and catered to both mixed and single-sex sessions – supporting equality, diversity and inclusion in the community. The planned replacement disregards these needs of ours. Claims from the centre that the Health Suite has seen a decline in numbers, is the result of poor maintenance and the loss of the whirlpool several months ago, which caused many members to go elsewhere.

These facilities have been essential to numerous customers. They serve as a valuable resource for physical health and mental relaxation. They also foster a warm, inclusive social community. Their omission from the new plans represents more than just the loss of amenities. It means curtailing recreational avenues for the disabled, for minority groups, and in fact for all customers, potentially leading to a decrease in the quality of life for these individuals.

We implore the decision-makers to reevaluate the new plans and incorporate our voices. We request the inclusion of the health suite, jacuzzi, and sauna in the new building project, a usable swimming pool that has space to accomodate parents and spectators, and for the real impact of the proposals to be considered as part of a more transparent dialogue regarding customer needs.

Please sign this petition to stand with us in demanding more user-focused features in the new Bramcote Leisure Centre.