A £2 million funding boost has given fresh momentum to a proposed leisure centre redevelopment.
The grant, awarded by Sport England, will support the planned £18.67 million transformation of Manor Leisure Centre in Whittlesey, led by Fenland District Council.
The project is part of the council’s Fenland Inspire! investment campaign to upgrade facilities and public spaces across the district.
Steve Count, councillor and portfolio holder for Fenland Inspire! Manor Redevelopment, said: "This is a huge milestone for the redevelopment of the Manor Leisure Centre.
"The support from Sport England not only brings vital funding to the project but also demonstrates real confidence in our plans.
"This investment will help us deliver a centre that meets the needs of Whittlesey’s growing population for decades to come."
The proposed scheme involves a complete overhaul of the existing swimming pool building, with the demolition of the separate sports hall.
It would be replaced with a modern community hub offering a wider range of activities and services, including a café, expanded gym, fitness studios, upgraded soft play, and flexible event space.
Outdoor improvements would include a new skate park, enhanced rifle range, and enhanced links to outdoor spaces.
The wider Manor field and park area would also benefit from the changes, with a new café serving both leisure centre visitors and park users.
The plans are currently at the proposal stage and are subject to planning permission and final Cabinet approval, expected in summer 2026.
The project is being developed in partnership with Alliance Leisure and aims to deliver a more accessible, energy-efficient facility.
A planning application was submitted in December 2025 and can be viewed on Fenland District Council’s Public Access portal under reference F/YR26/0179/FDC.
The application follows a public survey held in September 2025, where residents, leisure centre users, and community groups were invited to share their views.
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