The Cath Thom Leisure Centre to Lead the Way in Environmental Sustainability
The Cath Thom Leisure Centre to Lead the Way in Environmental Sustainability
As the opening date for The Cath Thom Leisure Centre at Wilson Sports Village nears, Hyndburn Council is pleased to share that the new centre is set to make a significant contribution to both community health and environmental sustainability.
Designed with a focus on energy efficiency and eco-friendly practices, the facility will lead as one of the key environmentally responsible buildings in the borough, demonstrating the Council’s ongoing commitment to tackling climate change.
Image: Part of solar panel system at The Cath Thom Leisure Centre
The new leisure centre sets a benchmark for sustainability, achieving an impressive A-rated energy efficiency thanks to high-performance construction materials, innovative design features, and rigorous quality controls. A recent air permeability test delivered a score of 2.7—well beyond the original design targets—while managed mechanical ventilation further enhances energy performance. The centre’s fossil fuel-free heating, cooling, and hot water systems are powered by energy-efficient technologies and supported by solar panels, dramatically reducing the building’s carbon footprint. These measures not only lower carbon emissions and running costs, but also place the centre on the cusp of an A+ rating, supporting the Council’s ambition to achieve net-zero carbon activities by 2030 and opening up exciting opportunities for future energy management and carbon neutrality.
For residents travelling to the centre, the facility’s location on a major bus route makes it easily accessible by public transport. In addition, there will be electric vehicle (EV) charging points and a secure cycle shelter to encourage greener travel options, promoting a shift towards low-carbon transport choices.
Cllr Melissa Fisher, Deputy Leader of the 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. 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.”
This new facility builds on previous energy-saving initiatives within the borough, including the improvements made at Hyndburn Leisure Centre. Previously awarded a £241,447 grant from Sport England’s Swimming Pool Support Fund (SPSF), the funding has been used to implement a range of energy-saving measures, including the replacement of variable speed fans and the installation of a new metering and monitoring system. These upgrades have allowed for better control over energy usage, particularly in the winter months, further supporting the Council’s drive to reduce energy consumption across all leisure facilities.
Image: Swimming pool at The Cath Thom Leisure Centre
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 at Wilson Sports Village has been funded by Hyndburn Borough Council and a grant from Sport England. It will open to the public on 10th October 2025.
More information is available at https://www.hyndburnbc.gov.uk/wilson-sport-village/