Next step for Manor Leisure Centre as redevelopment enters planning stage
A major proposed redevelopment of the Manor Leisure Centre in Whittlesey has taken a significant step forward with the validation of a planning application submitted in December.
Above: Artist's impression of the proposed Manor Leisure Centre redevelopment
Validation confirms that the application contains the required information for it to be formally assessed and marks the official start of the decision-making timeline.
Fenland District Council is planning to redevelop the centre as part of its member-led Fenland Inspire! investment campaign, which aims to enhance leisure facilities and public spaces across the district.
The project, being developed in partnership with Alliance Leisure, proposes a complete redevelopment and expansion of the existing swimming pool building and the demolition of the separate sports hall. If approved, the scheme would provide the local community with a modern, fit‑for‑purpose facility for decades to come.
Cllr Steve Count, Portfolio Holder for Fenland Inspire! Manor Redevelopment, said: This is a significant proposal for the Council, and reaching validation stage is an important milestone. We want to ensure Whittlesey has a leisure facility that can serve the community well into the future, and the plans submitted reflect the ambition to achieve that. Our current facility has served residents brilliantly for the past 50 years, but it now requires significant investment. Working with a specialist project team, we've developed proposals that we believe could deliver an excellent community experience, subject to the necessary approvals."
The project is subject to both planning permission and Cabinet approval before any construction can begin. Cabinet is expected to consider the final detailed designs and make a decision in July 2026.
The submission of the planning application follows a public survey in September 2025, in which residents, leisure centre users and community groups were invited to share their views and help shape the proposals.
The project aims to broaden the centre's appeal by modernising facilities, while keeping operating costs low to ensure long‑term sustainability. The upgraded facility would support a variety of sports and leisure activities, including new padel courts and a relocated skate park.
The redevelopment also seeks to make better use of the Manor Field setting by strengthening links between the leisure centre and outdoor activities, reinforcing the field's role as a key multi-generational community hub and providing facilities that meet the needs of Whittlesey's growing population.
The planning application is available to view via the Council's Public Access portal (planning reference number: F/YR26/0179/FDC): View planning application details and documents
For more information on Fenland Inspire! projects, visit: Fenland Inspire!
Keep up-to-date with Fenland District Council via Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn and our newsletter The Fenlander Newsletter.
March 2026
