The centre has been designed to support local cultural ambitions with groups having the opportunity to hire spaces for cultural and community events when the leisure facilities and library is not in use. 

Run by Places Leisure, the new Carnival Hub will feature two swimming pools (a six-lane 25m pool and teaching pool with moveable depth floor and splash pad); a larger fitness suite and specialist group cycling studio; large studios which can also be used for events; a four-court sports hall which can convert into a performance venue with bleacher seating; a spa, long term health gym; larger café; and viewing areas. 

There will also be a large library including space for events and activities, a lending library, fun children’s zone and space for exhibitions. This is the final stage of the borough council’s ambitious regeneration scheme in the town.

“We’re significantly investing in sport and leisure facilities in the Wokingham Borough with more than £50m already committed to a range of facilities such as Carnival Hub, Cantley and Bulmershe Leisure centre, which opened last year,” said Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure.  

“Whilst this is primarily a leisure centre and library the flexible fit out of the sports hall and studio spaces will be key in supporting wider cultural use for events such as performances, lectures or exhibitions.”