Barnet Council's Cabinet has approved a revised business case for the Finchley Leisure Centre, paving the way for a modernised facility that incorporates significant community feedback.
The estimated total cost of the project is £37 million. This is largely funded by a £29 million capital premium from the developer, Regal GNLP Limited (trading as Arada), who will also hold the construction risk. The Council's contribution amounts to £8 million, designated for contingency and project management activities, which is forecast to be funded through borrowing. Councillor Anne Clarke, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure, Arts, and Sport, described the project as a good news story for Finchley
and an example of gaining locally from development,
emphasising that the new facility is paid for out of other people's money.
This sentiment was echoed by Councillor Peter Zinkin, Leader of the Conservative Group, who highlighted the positive financial implications.
The revised plans, developed in consultation with residents, include an expanded outdoor pool area – now approximately twice the size of the original plan – a new café, a steam room, an additional fitness studio, and a cycling studio. A key feature of the revised proposal is the inclusion of a learner pool, identified as a high priority during public consultation. This pool will cater to beginner swimmers, including school groups, and will also be available for people with additional needs when not in use as a learner pool. The meeting information does not specify how other areas of the facility will cater to people with additional needs.
The scheme's progression is conditional on Arada securing a final planning decision notice free from challenge and confirming their financing arrangements. Once these conditions are met, the project will move to the technical design stage, with a projected completion date in late 2029.
