A et A COMMUNITY

Sadly, years of underinvestment in the public leisure sector compounded by Covid closures left this once-loved community asset at risk of closure in 2021 when the cash-strapped county council were unable to extend its financial support.

Encouraged by the council, the local community came together as the Friends of Wadebridge Leisure Centre (FOWLC) and the newly formed Community Interest Company developed a proposal of community ownership and control. In September 2022 they were handed the keys to the centre after a ten-month period of campaigning and planning. Community volunteers have helped to transform the facilities with paint rollers, signage and scrubbing brushes and as hoped, membership at the centre has rocketed since the transfer, schools and clubs have increased their usage of the site and new groups have found a home for their favourite hobbies.

However, eye-watering energy costs and ageing facilities continue to challenge the group’s success. The CIC have ambitious plans to overcome this and, in consultation with Leisure Energy, (specialists in delivering energy conservation solutions for the leisure industry), and the support of a newly formed Charity (awaiting registration number), they are aiming to transform the centre into a modern space fit for the next generation. A significant programme of works is planned that will see energy conservation measures, efficient plant room and renewables technologies installed. In addition, the dated pool hall and change spaces will be overhauled with family-friendly and accessible facilities at its core, gym facilities extended, the Sports Hall refreshed, and a new community food and beverage space created. The energy project alone will total £250,000, in addition to council funding, which had previously been ring-fenced for the site. The works will take around 12 months to complete but should deliver a long-term sustainable facility. For the future, the Charity is looking at decarbonisation, via the use of heat pumps, which will require further capital investment. Fundraising plans are in place, but the success of the project will depend on the generosity of local businesses, residents, private donors, and visitors.

Fundraising efforts have kicked off with donations from St Minver Lowlands and St Issey Parish Councils and a successful Crowdfunding project entitled ‘Swimming Against the Tide’. A striking painted mural has been created made up of individually named fish, sponsored by well over 100 supporters. Proud fish owner Elodie is a 6-year-old who has additional needs and uses the centre for her 1:1 swim lesson that helps strengthen her legs and build water confidence.

A local retired teacher, Gillian Johnson, is very grateful for the role the centre has played in her health and is delighted it has a future. After undergoing knee replacement surgery, she returned as a member in September 2022 to continue her regular fitness classes designed for older adults with reduced mobility. The recently approved Swim England grant for accessible pool steps comes at the right time for this Aqua Fit regular.

It’s an exciting time for the centre, but the FOWLC urgently needs more support if they are to achieve their ambitious vision and secure the future of this much-used community Centre. If you can help, please contact help@fowlc.co.uk or go to www.wadebridgeslc.co.uk