Broadbridge Heath leisure centre granted reprieve

A West Sussex leisure centre threatened with closure has been reprieved after an outcry by users.

Horsham District Council, which faces a bill of up to £1.5m for repairs to Broadbridge Heath Leisure Centre, had proposed closure and demolition.

It would have shut next December, but after thousands of people signed petitions in protest its future is being reconsidered.

The council is to prepare a business case including options for the centre.

The study, to be submitted for a decision by May, will include plans to relocate the facilities and clubs and organisations that use the centre.

A planning brief considering the options for the future of the site and adjacent council-owned land is also to be prepared.

"I have listened carefully to all the views expressed during this very public debate about Broadbridge Heath," said cabinet member for arts, heritage and leisure, councillor Jonathan Chowen.

"I accept that people do want to see a more detailed business case before irrevocable decisions are made."