LATEST NEWS ABOUT THE ROUNDHOUSE FROM BRADDAN COMMISSIONERS :-
LANDMARK LEISURE COMPLEX SET FOR WINTER OPENING
Work to create a flagship multi-purpose leisure development in Braddan is moving ever closer to completion.
The Roundhouse, a concept by Braddan Parish Commissioners to bring together community, family, friends, fitness and health in one modern facility, is set to open to the public this winter. As well as providing a range of new leisure, health and community facilities for all ages Island-wide, the complex will create in the region of 25 local jobs.
The local authority has recently presented a petition seeking approval from the Department of Infrastructure to borrow up to £3.4 million from HSBC, as required under Section 51 of the Local Government Act, to conclude the scheme which will comprise a cafe with a children’s soft play area, large multi-use sports hall, gym and exercise studio, along with a nursery, pharmacy, dental practice, therapy suite, treatment room, beauticians and activity classes for babies and children.
In addition, there will be a striking state-of-the-art outdoor inclusive children’s playground, along with an extensive village green incorporating a 500-metre long walking and exercise track, and sensory garden, as part of two acres of open green space.
Chairman Andrew Jessopp said: ‘Excitement is starting to ramp up as we approach the completion of The Roundhouse.
‘It has been several decades since a local authority undertook a scheme of this scale and, having been on site recently, it is truly wonderful to see it all coming together. We have no doubt our
modern leisure and community complex will have a huge positive impact on the outlook, health and wellbeing of Island residents.’
Located at The Strang, adjacent to Palatine Health Centre and Noble’s Hospital, The Roundhouse will have good parking provision and excellent public transport links.
As well as being an ideal venue to meet friends and family, take advantage of essential services and exercise, its modern, comfortable facilities will also be available to hire for a range of
functions and events.
The sports hall, with its pull-out seating, can double up as a performance or exhibition space and conference facility.
Designed by local architects Kay Associates and constructed by Cedar Developments Ltd, Mr Jessopp added: ‘Since the outset, this has been very much a team effort involving local architects, contractors and craftsmen to match the aspirations of the local authority. The scheme has created jobs in the construction industry, as well as at the completed complex itself, and when open will increase footfall to the area and give a boost to local businesses.
‘Regrettably, schemes of this nature take a long time to come to fruition, and inevitably, since it was first planned, the cost has risen. The island has suffered the consequences of the coronavirus
pandemic, Brexit and the Ukraine war. They brought with them material price increases and labour shortages, both of which the entire building industry on and off the Island is experiencing.
‘There were also some unexpected issues with the building design that has slowed its progress, but I am delighted we can now see the finishing line and we are all looking forward to seeing how
residents in the parish, and Island wide, can enjoy the first-class facilities at The Roundhouse for generations to come.’
To keep up to date with the latest news about the Roundhouse, please see our dedicated Facebook page – The Roundhouse
