The investment is part of a wider £30m Masterplan of Improvements that the council predicts will deliver a return of more than £98m in monetised benefits. Development works will focus on expanding the accessibility and appeal of the centre to a wider demographic, encouraging a more active community driving positive health outcomes and tackling health inequalities. 

The centre, which has been servicing the city since 1938, has been managed by Active Nation since 2010.

In a consultation in 2021, 97 per cent of respondents said they would like to see improvements at the Outdoor Sports Centre, while 85 per cent of respondents said they would use the Outdoor Sports Centre more if the proposed changes were implemented.

The council will submit the planning application in the next few weeks and will seek approval on the pre-construction services agreement so that works can get underway as soon as possible.

Some works have already completed at the venue as part of the council’s wider investment plan, including the launch of the revamped Bike Park in January which features a new start hill, three all-weathered trails with a dedicated push-up and a new advanced jump trail.