Planning approval for Cranbrook’s new Leisure and Wellbeing Centre marks a significant step forward for the town. Exeter and East Devon Enterprise Zone (EEDEZ) funding is helping to support the delivery of key infrastructure for East Devon’s new community.
East Devon District Council has approved plans for a new Leisure and Wellbeing Centre in Cranbrook town centre, alongside outline permission for a future Neighbourhood Health Centre and additional community or commercial facilities.
The new centre will provide a wide range of health, leisure and community services, including a six-lane 25-metre swimming pool, learner pool, gym, fitness studios, library space, community and clinical facilities, café and soft play area. Designed as a landmark civic building, the facility will also incorporate renewable energy technologies such as air source heat pumps and solar panels.
As Cranbrook continues to expand and is expected to grow to more than 20,000 residents, investment in community infrastructure is becoming increasingly important. EEDEZ funding is helping to unlock the delivery of this major project, supporting the creation of facilities that will promote health, wellbeing, social connection and sustainable growth in the town.
The approved plans form a key part of the long-term vision for Cranbrook town centre, bringing leisure, health and community services together in a central and accessible location. The wider scheme will also include improvements to public spaces, walking and cycling connections, sustainable drainage systems and biodiversity enhancements.
Cllr Todd Olive, East Devon District Council (EDDC) Portfolio Holder for Place, Infrastructure and Strategic Planning, said:
“This is a significant milestone for Cranbrook and an important step towards delivering the town centre facilities that residents have long been waiting for.
“The new leisure and wellbeing centre will provide opportunities for people of all ages to be more active, improve their health and wellbeing, access community services and spend time together in a modern, welcoming environment.
“Alongside future health and commercial facilities, this development will help create a vibrant town centre that serves the needs of Cranbrook’s growing community both now and in the future.”
The project reflects EEDEZ’s commitment to investing in infrastructure that supports economic growth, strengthens communities and improves quality of life across East Devon. By helping to deliver facilities that meet the needs of both current and future residents, the funding will contribute to creating a vibrant and sustainable town centre at the heart of Cranbrook.
The announcement follows EDDC’s recent decision to appoint Everyone Active as the future operator of leisure services across the district from January 2027. The new operator has committed to significant investment in East Devon’s leisure facilities and services, helping to ensure the long-term sustainability and success of leisure provision across the district.
With planning permission now secured, the next stages of the project will focus on finalising funding, procurement and delivery arrangements, bringing Cranbrook a step closer to the modern leisure, health and community facilities.