Leisure facilities to be revamped under new strategy

The city council has set out long term plans to modernise leisure and sports facilities across Stoke-on-Trent.

The new Indoor Facilities Strategy, which will cover the next 18 years, will guide investment in sports halls, swimming pools, gyms and other indoor leisure venues.

The strategy has a clear vision of high quality, modern, accessible facilities that will support health, wellbeing and quality of life.

Short term priorities include essential improvements at Fenton Manor Sports Complex and Dimensions, as well as energy efficient upgrades.

In addition, it will also look at expanding concessionary pricing and improve community access to sports halls – many of which lie unused during the day.

Over the next three to five years. the strategy will see improved partnership working with schools and sports clubs, with the city council set to explore options for indoor tennis and supporting the continued growth of gymnastics, netball and basketball.

Long-term plans include feasibility work on the future of Fenton Manor, with options drawn up for a potential new flagship city centre leisure facility.

The strategy is built on a detailed, independent needs assessment carried out in 2024, that looked at checking capacity, quality and local demand – it found that while Stoke-on-Trent has some excellent facilities, many are either outdated or operating at capacity.

Cllr Majid Khan, cabinet member for health integration and wellbeing at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “This strategy is necessary to transforming the city’s leisure services going forward. It is important that facilities are catered to residents and serve their needs, as exercise and moving your body is essential for your physical and mental health. We’re working with partners across the city to ensure that Stoke-on-Trent’s leisure facilities will be fit for purpose for years to come.”