Gedling Borough Council has taken an important step forward in delivering Carlton Active – a once-in-a-generation investment in modern leisure, health and wellbeing facilities for the borough.

At its 19 February 2026 meeting, Cabinet approved the RIBA Stage 2 (Concept Design) proposals for the new facility and agreed for the project to move into detailed pre-construction design.

This milestone means the vision for Carlton Active has now been tested at concept stage, including site surveys, technical assessments and cost planning. The project will now progress into the next phase of detailed design and planning preparation.

The proposed new centre will bring together high-quality swimming, fitness and community facilities on a single, modern and energy-efficient site at Richard Herrod. The concept design includes an eight-lane main swimming pool, a teaching pool, a modern gym and fitness suite, group exercise studios, flexible community space and a café area designed to create a welcoming social hub.

Carlton Active is intended to replace ageing facilities with a future-focused building that supports active lifestyles, improves health outcomes and secures sustainable leisure provision for decades to come.

As part of the agreed programme, the Richard Herrod Centre will close from 1 May 2026 to allow the site to transition into redevelopment. Following closure, site investigations and enabling works will begin, with demolition anticipated later in 2026, subject to statutory approvals.

You can view the current concept designs in the Designs section of this microsite. You can also read our FAQ section for more detailed information about the project, timelines and next steps.

A final decision on construction will be taken once detailed design is complete, planning permission is secured and affordability has been confirmed by Cabinet.

Carlton Active forms part of the Council’s wider Leisure Transformation programme, which aims to create inclusive, accessible and financially sustainable facilities that meet the needs of residents now and into the future.

Further updates will be shared as the project progresses.