One of the most successful and celebrated British swimmers of all time emphasised the importance of physical activity in all stages of life when she attended an official groundbreaking ceremony for a new Staffordshire leisure centre.
Two-time Olympic gold medal winner Rebecca Adlington OBE visited Stychbrook Park yesterday to break the ground on the new Lichfield Leisure Centre, which is set to become the cornerstone of health and fitness for the community.
The state-of-the-art facility, which is expected to be completed by Autumn 2025, will replace the ageing Friary Grange Leisure Centre and will offer a range of amenities for beginners through to experienced athletes.
Speaking at the groundbreaking event, Rebecca said: “Exercise is so important at every age, whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been active for years.
“I’m thrilled that my company, ReCreation, has played a key role in this incredible development.
“We’ve worked hard with council officers to ensure that this new leisure centre will be relevant and accessible to everyone in today’s society, providing a space that promotes health, well-being, and community.”
Olympian-led ReCreation uses above-ground swimming pools design to provide facilities at lower costs than the traditional construction method.
Facilities at the new centre will include a 25m, six lane variable depth swimming pool, poolside seating and a changing village, an 80-station fitness gym, a spin studio, a dance studio, a community room, an external 3G pitch and outdoor changing rooms.
Councillor Doug Pullen, Leader of Lichfield District Council, also attended the ceremony alongside representative from local swimming clubs and community organisations.
He said: “I’m delighted that this long-awaited project is now underway, and we are delivering on our promise to deliver a brand-new leisure centre for Lichfield.
“This project has been shaped by the community since the very beginning – I’m confident it will serve our district well for many years to come.”
Adrian Barnes, Regional Director of works contractor Stepnell, added: “Our team is committed to maintaining open and transparent communication with local residents throughout the construction process.
“We will be actively liaising with the community to keep everyone informed and engaged as the project progresses. It’s important to us that local people feel involved and confident in the work we are doing to bring this exciting new facility to life.”
