New-look Askern Leisure Centre on track to open early 2023

Work to improve Askern Leisure Centre is on track to complete in early 2023, bringing with it a new-look programme of swimming activities for the community.

The new swimming pool programme will include lane swimming, inflatable fun and swimming lessons. Aquafit and ladies only sessions will also feature.

The programme comes as part of a £6m investment to fully refurbish the centre.

The pool has had its lining replaced and a new air handling system installed, and a new changing village is being created with a Changing Places facility included.

A new café area in the venue’s undercroft will serve hot and cold beverages, hot food and cakes.

The major works taking place also include replacing the old coal heating system with a more environmentally friendly and sustainable water heating solution, as well as replacing the centre’s roof, windows and doors to make the venue more energy efficient.

An extension to the car parking area is also set to open the venue up to the neighbouring Campsall Country Park.

Michael Hart, chief executive at Doncaster Culture and Leisure Trust (DCLT), who manage the venue said: “The major refurbishment project at Askern Leisure Centre is now well underway and we’re on track to reopen the venue early next year, with a new-look programme of pool activities with something to suit everyone.

“We’re excited to be creating a hugely improved and much more environmentally friendly leisure facility for the local community. The refurbished facilities and our new-look activity programmes will benefit residents in and around the area for years to come.

“As we push on with the refurbishment work, we’ll keep people updated with progress and announce a firm opening date closer to the time.”

The improvements are delivered in partnership between DCLT and Doncaster Council, and funded through a combination of local authority capital, government decarbonisation and Sport England grants.