Leisure centre to shut so roof can be replaced

Southampton City Council has been looking for a charity or community-based organisation to take over the management of the site

A community and leisure centre is set to close for repairs, including replacing the roof on its sports hall.

Southampton City Council said the work at St Mary's Community and Leisure Centre, costing £2.5m, means it will close on 31 March.

The council has been looking for a charity or community-based organisation to take over the management of the centre, currently managed by charity Active Nation.

The authority said the building was expected to reopen in the autumn with discussions with several interested parties in progress and a new operator to be in place by the summer.

In February, the council said it was looking to lease the Grade II listed building on a long-term, low-cost basis.

It currently has a gym, badminton and squash courts, activity rooms and a hall for hire.

Councillor Lorna Fielker, leader of Southampton City Council, said: "St Mary's Community and Leisure Centre has been an integral part of the local community for many years, offering a wide range of leisure, wellbeing, and community facilities.

"The upcoming refurbishment is crucial in ensuring the building remains fit for purpose and continues to be a venue where people can visit, exercise, and enjoy for many years to come."

The centre closed in December 2021 but reopened following a campaign to save it by residents.