Haddington: Plans revealed to extend Aubigny Sports Centre gym

East Lothian Council wants to improve what is on offer at the Aubigny Sports Centre, which is used by about 200,000 people each year.

As the town has expanded, so has the demand for facilities at the enjoyleisure-run centre on the town’s Mill Wynd.

The local authority wants to build an extension – at the expense of five trees – towards the busy road, which runs to the north of the centre.

Drawings included with the application show the extension to the rear of the swimming pool changing rooms.

A new path would be created to the gym, while a minor change to the layout of the car park would also take place, as well as the installation of new bike shelters.

A spokesperson for East Lothian Council was confident the extension would be welcomed.

The proposed extension would be built to the left of the existing Aubigny Sports Centre

She said: “The proposed extension would provide a brand new gym area for the Aubigny Centre, featuring Pulse Fitness equipment including a large free weights area with half racks, cable pulleys, an adjustable Olympic bench, multi-functional plate loaded machine, dumbbells up to 50KG and benches.

“A functional training space housing a training rig, powerbags, kettlebells, suspension training equipment, sledge and high intensity training machines to meet this growing demand within the fitness market will also be created.

READ MORE: Residents call for upgrade at Aubigny Sports Centre

“More traditional cardiovascular equipment will be maintained including new stepmills and fixed resistance machines to cater for all the community.

“At the moment, the Aubigny provides only a small gym as well as the swimming pool and associated facilities and two dance studios/multi use rooms.

“We think this will be a very welcome addition to the provision at this popular centre.”

Currently, the site of the proposed extension is home to a number of trees.

The sports centre is used extensively by people from throughout Haddington and beyond

The council spokesperson confirmed some trees would have to be removed but stressed replacements would be planted.

She said: “In terms of trees on the site, we have consulted with experts and identified trees and root areas to be protected.

“The new building would involve the removal of five maple trees out of a total of 14 trees on the site.

“There will be re-planting of 13 trees as well as other plants and shrubs which will increase biodiversity.”

Bill Axon, chief executive of enjoyleisure, was hopeful the changes to the sports centre, which was opened in 1974, would prove popular.

He said: “The extension is laying the foundations to ensure that not only the people of Haddington but the wider East Lothian community have a local sport centre fit for future purpose and underpins the ongoing commitment of Enjoy and East Lothian Council to supporting everyone in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.”