Preparation work for Bassetlaw District Council’s biggest decarbonisation project ever undertaken gets underway this month.
Two of the council’s biggest carbon emitters, Worksop and Retford Leisure Centres, are being made more energy efficient by replacing the end-of-life gas heating systems for the building and pool with modern heat pumps. This is alongside other smaller improvements such as installing solar panels, heat recovery ventilation, a draught lobby, and improved LED lighting.
The work is being part funded using £2.18 million of the Government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, which is contributing to the UK’s ambition to be net zero by 2050, with additional investment from Bassetlaw District Council.
Contractors Miller Freeman will be on site at Retford Leisure Centre from Monday 13th July to begin work which, when completed, will enhance the sustainability of the building.
Cllr Darrell Pulk, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “These upgrades will future proof these important community facilities for our residents, cut running costs, and improve energy efficiency.
“As we look to make where we live and work the greenest and most sustainable this work is vital and would be one of the council’s crowning indelible green marks on the district.”
During preparatory work, parking could be affected on site, but plans are in place to reduce any additional pressure on car parking spaces.
The main works will see Retford Leisure Centre closed for four weeks from Monday 10th August. It will also make sure the centre is ready for the start of the new school term in September and the colder winter months.
Michael Hirst, BPL’s CEO said: "We welcome this significant investment by Bassetlaw District Council in enhancing the sustainability of its leisure centres.
“While these essential improvements may lead to some temporary disruption, our on-site teams are working diligently to minimise any inconvenience for customers."
Similar work will take place at Worksop Leisure Centre later this year, and once this is completed, it will mean fossil fuel consumption at properties owned by the council will have reduced by 62% since 2021. That’s despite adding more assets such as the Bridge Skills Hub during that time.
The Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme funding has previously been used to support work at 17b in Retford in 2025, Queens Buildings in 2023 and Kilton Forest Golf Course Clubhouse in 2021.
Last Updated on Monday, July 13, 2026