Westminster’s planning committee has passed a planning application and Listed Building Consent application for the refurbishment of the historic Seymour Centre in Marylebone on 11th July.
Proposals by Make Architects and Westminster City Council were submitted to the Planning Department which will see a full refurbishment of the Grade II listed building.
The plans include an open plan gym space on the lower ground floor creating a new and accessible space for gym users. The air circulation and ventilation of the gym will also be improved, and a new range of studios for spin, aerobics and other classes will also be provided.
Central to the plans is to bring the Marylebone Library into the Centre, creating a first-class library space over two floors. The ground floor library will house a dedicated space for children as well as a new café, and there will be additional space for a children’s soft play area, buggy parking, and bookable community spaces. The first floor library will include ICT facilities and quiet reading spaces.
The upgrade to the five-court sports hall will see new flooring installed to make it more accessible for wheelchair users. The spa on the lower ground floor will also be improved, and all changing rooms will be improved and modernised with new male, female, gender neutral and accessible changing areas provided. The Centre’s popular climbing wall will also receive a refurbishment.
Westminster City Council has a commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2030 and this has been factored into the plans. Improvements to heating, temperature and ventilation in the refurbished Centre will see a reduction in carbon emissions.
The council has engaged extensively with the local community through a series of events and surveys. Since 2021, the council officers have spoken to more than 500 local people and received more than 800 survey responses. This feedback has been vital in shaping the plans for the future of the Centre to ensure that it meets the needs of local residents.
The plans will see a target start date in early 2024 with target completion date of early 2026.
Cllr David Boothroyd, Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform at Westminster City Council said:
Transforming Seymour Leisure Centre will provide first-class facilities for the Westminster community. The improved site will include an open plan gym, refurbished swimming pool and contemporary library with accessibility throughout.
There are a number of local sports clubs and businesses who currently use the centre. We are now working closely with them to find solutions either at the new site or at other facilities in Westminster so they can continue to offer their services to residents.
The new spaces at Seymour will be able to be used by multiple clubs and community groups”.
Published: 12 July 2023