Newbury Leisure Park in Thatcham up for sale

Questions around the future of the Newbury Leisure Park in Thatcham have been raised.

West Berkshire Council confirmed the company behind the Lower Way site had gone out of business.

But it was unable to clarify what support the council could give, although it said a masterplan would be commissioned to examine ways to maximise the site. The council has already said it is willing to help financially through its playing pitch strategy.

“The area delivery plan policy for Thatcham states that the range of leisure facilities will be expanded, utilising those at Lower Way,” said Simon Pike, a Lib Dem councillor on Thatcham Town Council.

“Has the council provided any funding or other support to support this expansion?”

He was told at the council’s executive committee that the authority continues to make significant investment in the leisure and culture facilities in Thatcham.

Howard Woollaston (Con, Lambourn), the executive portfolio holder for leisure, told him: “The Henwick sports pavilion has had £75k, Thatcham library refit including an accessible toilet is due to commence, costing £60k but the Thatcham masterplan currently under way is expected to provide for a larger library costing around £1.2m.

“Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre has a completely new space to tell visitors about the wildlife of the Kennet Valley at a cost of £125k. Thatcham memorial jubilee playground will get extra equipment costing £75k and the Kennet Leisure Centre has £200k in 2024/25 for refurbishment works.

“I would stress that Newbury Leisure Park is privately owned and since 2012 has undergone at least one refurbishment.

“Unfortunately due to a variety of reasons, including the pandemic, has ceased trading and is currently up for sale by the owners.”

He said during the pandemic the council provided grant support to the Newbury Leisure Park, but that due to other commitments on the council leisure strategy, it could not get involved with the park.