Prior approval is required for the demolition of a derelict leisure centre targeted by vandals, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
Durham County Council has ruled that more information is needed on plans to flatten the former Spectrum Leisure Complex in Willington.
The facility closed in August 2024 and was later damaged following an arson attack and repeated anti-social behaviour.
Under plans submitted to the local authority, the entire building is set to be demolished and the site cleared for potential future development.
The leisure centre was opened in 1982 by the Wear Valley District Council and previously included a dry ski slope, which was ceremoniously opened by Franz Klammer – the then-reigning downhill world champion.
A BMX track was later built after the site was saved from closure by Ian and Alison Hirst, who formed the SLAM Community Development Trust.
But it closed in August 2024 after the company in charge of the site was issued a winding-up order by the High Court.
SLAM Community Development Trust, a private operator, said the closure was “due to circumstances currently beyond our control with regard to both internal and external issues”.
The closure was described as a “huge loss” to the community in 2024, despite the condition of the building rapidly declining.
A planning report states that the building is of no historic or aesthetic value.
Documents submitted as part of the proposal add: “The proposed restoration scheme would ensure the site would be left in a clean and tidy state in preparation for potential future redevelopment. As such, it is considered that the scheme would not unacceptably harm the visual amenity of the area.”
But the local authority said more information on the demolition plan is needed.
“On the basis of the details submitted, it is considered that insufficient information has been provided to enable the local planning authority to fully assess the proposed method of demolition in relation to the impact upon protected species and trees within close proximity to the building. As such, prior approval is required and refused,” a decision ruled.
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
