At this week’s council meeting, Waverley Borough Councillors approved a revised capital budget of £31.1M to deliver a new build low carbon leisure centre built to Passivhaus certification standards in Cranleigh.
A new Passivhaus leisure centre is the opportunity to directly contribute to the council's commitment to be a carbon neutral council by 2030, in line with Waverley’s Climate Emergency declaration adopted in September 2019.
Cranleigh Leisure Centre currently accounts for 11% (323 tCO2) of the council’s greenhouse gas emissions. The impact of a low-energy Passivhaus building could reduce energy consumption by 50%-60%, compared to a typical modern leisure centre, thereby reducing long term energy costs.
Councillor Liz Townsend BEM, Waverley Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Planning and Economic Development and Ward Councillor for Cranleigh West says,
“I am delighted with the decision this week. This a huge investment for the council and in the health and well-being of the Cranleigh community. A new build ultra-low energy Passivhaus leisure centre is the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the council’s commitment to become a carbon neutral council by 2030 and ensure that Waverley is financially sound with infrastructure and services fit for the future.
“It’s always a balance when investing in new buildings, but doing nothing, will in the long run cost us and the environment more. This is an exciting opportunity for the council and Cranleigh and I am looking forward to overseeing this project as it progresses”.
Officers at the council will now manage delivery of the project. If Cranleigh residents have any thoughts or comments on it, particularly the vision for the building, please get in touch with Waverley Borough Council via clcnewbuild@waverley.gov.uk.
There will also be opportunities to view and comment on the new design at community events in the future. Register at the email address above if you would like to be kept informed.