Final splash for leisure centre

As Woolwich Waves gets ready to open, the Waterfront Leisure Centre is getting ready to turn the wave machine off for the final time.

With Woolwich Waves soon to open, the Royal Borough of Greenwich has issued an update on the future of the Waterfront Leisure Centre.

Councillor Majid Rahman, Cabinet Member for Planning, Estate Renewal and Development, said: “Once open, Woolwich Waves will be one of the most impressive, state-of-the-art leisure centres in the country with swimming pools, water slides, a gym across two floors, a soft play area and much more located in the heart of the town centre. The closure of the existing Waterfront Leisure Centre has always been part of the long-term plan of the delivery of Woolwich Waves.

“Subject to approval by Cabinet on Wednesday 19 November, it is recommended that the old Waterfront Leisure Centre building is demolished, when it becomes vacant, to avoid anti-social behaviour and associated security costs – challenges that come with a building sitting vacant. Then steps would be taken to repurpose the site for future sale that would be subject to a transparent and competitive process, ensuring best value for the borough.

“The repurposing of the Waterfront site would pave the way for more much-needed housing and contribute to the council’s and the Mayor of London’s affordable housing targets.

“The regeneration of Woolwich remains a key priority for the council and Woolwich Waves sits at the heart of that. It will add to an impressive and transformative portfolio of delivery which includes the refurbishment of Tramshed Theatre, the opening of Woolwich Works, and the extensive improvements throughout the town centre, all of which are making Woolwich a more attractive place for people to live, visit, shop and work."