Renewable Energy

Transforming Leisure: Northcroft Centre’s Bold £3.1M Green Revamp

July 9, 2025

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The Northcroft Leisure Centre in Newbury is gearing up for a substantial transformation with a £3.1 million investment aimed at enhancing its energy efficiency. This initiative, characterized by West Berkshire Council as a “major green upgrade,” is set to introduce significant changes, including the installation of air source heat pumps, improved wall insulation, and solar panels.

This comprehensive renovation will not only upgrade the facilities, which feature a 25-meter main pool, a dedicated teaching pool, a gym, various exercise studios, and a 50-meter heated outdoor lido, but will also focus on reducing carbon emissions, aligning with the council’s ambitious target of achieving net zero.

Financing for the refurbishment comes from a generous grant of £2.8 million from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, supplemented by an additional investment of £387,000 from the West Berkshire Council. The planned work is scheduled to commence in 2026, with completion expected by March 2027.

To ensure minimal disruption for the leisure centre’s users during this upgrade, Everyone Active, the management team working for the council, is committed to carefully coordinating the refurbishment process. This plan not only emphasizes environmental responsibility but also showcases the council’s dedication to modernizing community facilities for enhanced usability and sustainability.

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Born in North West England, Jack kicked off his career in the insurance arena, dealing with claims for three years. Always up for a challenge, Jack leapt out of his comfort zone and embarked upon 5 years of excitement with the military.

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