FAQs

Q) What is the latest situation on  Sutton Swimming Pool?

A) The council is committed to ensuring its long-term financial stability.  Inflation leading to increased costs in the construction market and soaring energy costs currently make delivering a pool Sutton that does not add additional burden on the council tax payer, a challenge to deliver. Given the continued shortfall in available council funding, both capital borrowing and ongoing revenue, there is an ongoing need to review how all council services are delivered to identify efficiencies and reduce overall costs. The decision to bring a swimming pool back into Sutton Leisure Centre back continues to be reviewed in light of the above.

This review is essential in ensuring that necessary levels of savings are achieved, the council sets a legally balanced budget, continues to remain financially sustainable and can continue to provide vital front-line services.

Q) What is the latest situation on plans to redevelop Parr?

A) In April 2025, the council submitted a planning application for the demolition of the former Parr Swimming and Fitness Centre - a positive step forward in unlocking the potential of the prominent site on the edge of St Helens Town Centre.

The council's regeneration partner, English Cities Fund (ECF), is finalising an Outline Business Case for a new leisure, wellbeing and training complex in partnership with St Helens R.F.C. and we will ensure residents are kept informed on significant updates at the earliest opportunity.

Pending planning approval, demolition is expected to begin later this year, following the appointment of a contractor through a competitive tender process that will include for topsoiling and seeding of the area.

To view the planning application, visit: https://publicaccess.sthelens.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?keyVal=SN5HEFPE02J00&activeTab=summary