Behind the scenes tour of Bury Leisure Centre refurbishment

17 Mar 2026

Today, West Suffolk councillors got a sneak peek at what has been going on at Bury Leisure Centre as part of a multimillion pound investment.

Bury St Edmunds Leisure Centre is currently undergoing key improvements that will upgrade the facilities and services to better meet the needs of the community. West Suffolk Cabinet members and the ward members for Tollgate, in which the centre is located, were invited to see how the refurbishment is progressing. 

Refurbishment works began in November 2025 under a phased approach to minimise disruption to users of the centre. The first phase has seen the existing fitness suite redecorated which will home new equipment, including an E-gym, offering modern smart fitness technology. The health suite has also been refurbished with a modern sauna, steam room and new solarium facilities. 

Phase one is on track to complete by the end of March when the new gym and health suite will reopen. To reduce disruption to members during this phase, the gym equipment has been in part of the sports hall, enabling centre users to continue to access classes and keep active.

As part of the refurbishment project, a range of energy efficiency and renewable energy measures are being installed following West Suffolk Council being awarded a grant from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to decarbonise the leisure centre. Under the first phase a new sub-station has been installed to support the transition away from fossil fuel heating to electrical energy production systems.

During the tour the councillors were accompanied by Chris Webb, the site manager, who was able to answer questions about the building work, materials used and progress being made. 

Cllr Ian Shipp, Cabinet Member for Leisure at West Suffolk Council, said: “This was an exciting opportunity to go behind the scenes to see how the refurbishment work on the leisure centre is progressing. We also learnt more about the significant work to decarbonise the leisure centre, as well as the more visible upgrades to the facility that users will enjoy.

“It is great to see the careful consideration Abbeycroft has given to the way the works are being completed and how they are planning the transition stage between each phase. It was also reassuring to hear that Abbeycroft have had positive customer feedback since work commenced.

“This is a well-needed upgrade and enhancement, which has been designed to reflect the needs of our residents and help our communities thrive. I am sure many are eager to test out the new facilities once they are open again!”

Warren Smyth, CEO at Abbeycroft, said: “It’s great to see the project moving at such a pace and beginning to take shape. This redevelopment is a fantastic example of how investment in sustainability and wellbeing can go hand in hand. By modernising our facilities and introducing greener technologies, we’re ensuring that leisure spaces remain vibrant, energy efficient and welcoming for many years to come.”

Phase two is due to commence at the end of March, when works to the main pool, learner pool, leisure pool, wet side changing rooms and showers and sports hall commence.

Phase three is anticipated to begin at the end of May and finish in October 2026. This is when the works to the entrance, café, soft play, accessible change and wellness centre will be done.

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