Category: Construction
REGIONAL construction partner Stepnell has successfully completed an £11.3 million leisure centre at Stychbrook Park in Lichfield, marking a significant milestone in leisure provision in the district.
Officially opened by Double Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington OBE, the centre, which replaces the Friary Grange Sports Centre, features a 25-metre, six-lane swimming pool, an 80-station gym, modern spin and dance studios, a community room and an outdoor 3G pitch with updated changing facilities.
The project was procured through the Procure Partnerships Framework, with Stepnell appointed by Lichfield District Council as the complete design and build construction partner.
Graham Lambert, director at Stepnell, said:
“From the early planning stages through to delivery of this state-of-the-art community facility, our deep expertise in the leisure and public sectors has been fundamental to delivering a modern, inclusive space on time and within budget – encompassing the pool and fitness facilities, community room and outdoor sports provision.
“By working collaboratively with Lichfield District Council and The ReCreation Group and engaging with community organisations including The Friends of Priory Grange, we have ensured the facility meets ambitions for a high-quality, contemporary leisure and community asset that will deliver long-term health and social benefits for Lichfield.”
Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council, said:
“We know how important quality sports facilities are to residents in Lichfield District and so we are very proud of the leisure centre that we have been able to deliver.
“It’s a first-class development of a contemporary design which will help people of all ages enhance their health, fitness and wellbeing. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank ReCreation, Stepnell, The Friends of Friary Grange, local sport user groups and the council’s project team for their contribution and input.
“Thanks also to local residents for their patience and understanding while the leisure centre was constructed.”
Rebecca Adlington OBE said:
“Sharing the key milestones of this project and watching the development of Lichfield Leisure Centre from the first spade in the ground to the first swimmers in the water has been a joy!
“Opening the new Leisure Centre is a wonderful reminder of how powerful community spaces can be. Learning to swim changed my life, and I believe every child and adult deserves the same opportunity. Facilities like this make swimming accessible to everyone, helping build confidence, safety and a lifelong love of being active.”
Adrian Turner of The ReCreation Group said:
“Our partnership with Lichfield District Council has been built on a shared belief in the power of accessible, high-quality leisure for everyone. Reflective of the Olympic-level leadership and national ambition to provide communities with the pools and facilities they deserve, the new Lichfield Leisure Centre is our latest example of this commitment in action.
“The new centre represents more than a building – it’s an investment in wellbeing, connection, and opportunity for the entire community. We’re proud to support a space that will inspire people of all ages to be active, engaged, and confident for many years to come.”
