Demolition of 'dated' leisure centre begins

The diggers moved in to knock down the leisure centre on Wednesday

The demolition of a "tired and dated" Derbyshire leisure centre has begun, a council has said.

North East Derbyshire District Council is currently flattening the Sharley Park complex in Clay Cross.

The construction of a new leisure centre and community hub is currently under way behind the building as it is being taken down.

It is hoped the new facility will open in the winter.

Onlookers said they were sad to see the old building coming down

The council is working with the Clay Cross Town Deal Board, and Sport England on the project.

The authority said Sharley Park, which closed in February, was "tired and dated" and had been in need of replacement for some time.

Lee Barnes, chairman of Clay Cross Town Board, said: "While it’s sad to lose a much-loved facility, it’s even more exciting to welcome something special being built."

The new centre will feature a modern fitness suite, spin studio, sports hall, main pool, and learner pool, with spectator seating, soft play and a community café.

The steel frame of the new building is already in place