The Cath Thom Leisure Centre at Wilson Sports Village has achieved an A-rated energy efficiency certificate, with construction methods and technology aimed at cutting carbon emissions and running costs.
Features include fossil fuel-free heating, and cooling and hot water systems, supported by solar panels on the roof.
Solar panels at the new Cath Thom Leisure Centre(Image: Hyndburn Borough Council)
Managed mechanical ventilation and high-performance building materials have also been used, helping the centre exceed its original design targets in a recent air permeability test.
The council says the facility is close to achieving an A+ rating, in line with its ambition to reach net-zero carbon activities by 2030.
The location is served by a major bus route, and electric vehicle charging points and a cycle shelter are being installed to encourage greener travel.
Cllr Melissa Fisher, deputy leader of Hyndburn Council, said: “The Cath Thom Leisure Centre is a clear demonstration of our commitment to a greener future.
“From renewable energy sources to the promotion of sustainable transport, every detail has been carefully considered to reduce our environmental impact.
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“It is crucial that we continue to create spaces that not only benefit our health and wellbeing but also contribute positively to the planet.
“This facility marks an important milestone in our journey towards achieving net-zero carbon activities by 2030.”
The project builds on earlier energy-saving work at Hyndburn Leisure Centre.
A £241,447 grant from Sport England’s Swimming Pool Support Fund has already been used to replace variable speed fans and install new metering and monitoring systems, giving greater control over energy use during the winter months.
The swimming pool at the Cath Thom Leisure Centre(Image: Hyndburn Borough Council)
Tom Gardner, business development manager at Alliance Leisure, said: “Alliance Leisure is proud to have worked alongside Hyndburn Borough Council to deliver a facility that not only supports health and wellbeing but also sets a benchmark for environmental sustainability.
“From fossil fuel-free heating systems to renewable energy solutions, every aspect of the design has been carefully developed to reduce environmental impact while maintaining the highest quality user experience.
“The Cath Thom Leisure Centre, within the wider Wilson Sports Village site, is proof that community leisure projects can be ambitious in both their social and environmental goals, and we’re delighted to see this vision coming to life.”
The Cath Thom Leisure Centre has been funded by Hyndburn Borough Council and Sport England and is due to open to the public on October 10.