Wilson Sports Village to Offer Inclusive and Accessible Facilities for All
Wilson Sports Village to Offer Inclusive and Accessible Facilities for All
As the construction phase of The Cath Thom Leisure Centre at Wilson Sports Village nears completion, Hyndburn Borough Council is pleased to share that the state-of-the-art facility will provide a wide range of services and activities that are intended to be fully inclusive for all local people.
The new centre boasts full level access throughout, with wide corridors and doors to make movement easier for everyone. A variety of accessible features have been incorporated into the design, including dedicated accessible showers, toilets, and changing facilities. In addition, a fully equipped Changing Places room will be available for those who need extra space and support.
The swimming pool at The Cath Thom Leisure Centre will be equipped with the Poolpod 3.0 — a cutting-edge platform lift system designed to promote inclusive access to swimming facilities.
Image: Poolpod pool entry system, one of many accessible features at The Cath Thom Leisure Centre
Unlike traditional hoists, the Poolpod 3.0 offers a safe, dignified, and independent entry experience for a wide range of users. This advanced system combines the reliability of a built-in platform lift with enhanced functionality, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the pool with confidence and ease.
For ease of navigation, the leisure centre will have clear and concise signage with added symbols and Braille to assist visitors. Blinds will be installed between the café and pool area, giving users the option of privacy when using the pool. The centre has also made provisions for accessible parking spaces, ramps, handrails, and outdoor seating to ensure that all visitors feel welcome and comfortable.
Cllr Clare Pritchard, the Council’s Disability Champion, said:
“This new leisure centre is a significant step forward in ensuring that people of all abilities have access to top-quality sports and recreational facilities. It is so important that every member of our community, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to take part in physical activities that support their health and wellbeing. The inclusive design of the centre, from the Changing Places room and state of the art pool entry system to the accessibility features throughout, demonstrates our commitment to breaking down barriers and creating a truly welcoming environment for everyone in our borough.”
Accessibility does not end with the design of the centre either, with a full programme of activity and services designed to improve health and wellbeing for the whole community already in discussion. One of the highlights will be the continuation of “Wheels for All” cycle sessions on the track, aimed at providing an enjoyable and safe cycling experience for people with disabilities.
Image: Members of the Wheels 4 All Hub at Wilson Sports Village
Joe McTague, Chief Operating Officer of Wheels for All, said:
“We are excited for the opening of The Cath Thom Leisure Centre. Wheels for All have used the running track here for over 17 years, providing an inclusive cycling programme that gives people, regardless of age and ability, the opportunity to cycle on a regular basis. We can’t wait to see the new accessible features, which are vital to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to take part in leisure activities. Our hub has been running every week during construction and we have witnessed first-hand the progress made. Our members are looking forward to using the new facilities when they open next month.”
Additionally, the “Up & Active” service will support adults with long-term health conditions, offering specially tailored physical activity sessions that promote better health and quality of life. There will also be a variety of pool sessions scheduled throughout the first year, with more planned as the centre settles into its new role as a hub for the community.
Cllr Melissa Fisher, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, said:
“We are incredibly proud that The Cath Thom Leisure Centre reflects our commitment to making sports and fitness accessible to all in Hyndburn and beyond. We have focused on ensuring that every member of our community, regardless of their needs, can enjoy the full benefits of this facility. Whether you’re cycling, swimming, or simply enjoying a coffee in the café, this centre has been designed with inclusivity in mind, and we look forward to everyone experiencing it.”
The new leisure centre will provide a welcoming, accessible space where everyone can enjoy active and healthy lifestyles. More details about the opening and planned activities will be released soon. For all the latest updates on Wilson Sports Village, head to: https://www.hyndburnbc.gov.uk/wilson-sport-village/
The Cath Thom Leisure Centre at Wilson Sports Village has been funded by Hyndburn Borough Council and a grant from Sport England, and will open to the public on 10th October 2025.