STROUD District Council have released a further update today about the upcoming closure of the steam and sauna room. 

On Monday it emerged that the health suite (sauna and steam room) will close from November 1. 

An SDC spokesperson said it have needed 'significant investment' to make it safe and sanitary, which is why it will close next week, although they took to social media to say this does not necessarily  mean it will close permanently. 

An SDC spokesperson has today, Wednesday, given a further update. 

They said: "On Friday 1 November 2024, Stroud District Council (SDC) will take back control of Stratford Park Leisure Centre from the current contractor. The centre will be closed from Friday 1 November to Friday 8 November inclusive to carry out essential works.

"The Pulse Leisure Centre in Dursley, also owned and operated by SDC, will be closed from Monday 4 November to Wednesday 13 November inclusive for the same reasons.

"When we reopen, there will be a new look to both centres, which will now be known as Active Lifestyles Stroud and Active Lifestyles Dursley.

"Our staff will have undergone intensive customer service training, and we will have carried out the most important repairs at both sites.

"Initially £2.7 million has been allocated for a five-year repair programme for essential maintenance and improvements at the 1975 Stratford Park centre to make it fit for purpose.

"This includes repairs to brickwork, roofing, decoration, doors, flooring, air conditioning, lighting, and the external toilet block.

"We know that additional investment will be required for the facilities at the centre in Stratford Park, including the health suite (sauna and steam room).

"Once we take ownership of the site, we will be in a better position to understand the implications.

"However, our initial assessment of the health suite is that we need to close it whilst we establish what work is required to ensure it is safe. We understand some users will be disappointed, but our priority is the safety of our customers.

"In the New Year, we will be carrying out a major review of the health, wellbeing and physical activity services across our district.

"Part of this will include the opportunity for everyone to have their say about the future of leisure prevision in our district and the facilities available.

"This will guide future investments and grant applications.

"Anyone interested in the new Active Lifestyles service and taking part in our public engagement part of the review, can sign up to receive updates at www.stroud.gov.uk/active