John Port School, in collaboration with the South Derbyshire District Council, developed a state-of-the-art leisure centre that significantly enhanced the school's functionality and appeal. This modern facility, currently owned by Active Nation, serves both pupils and the wider community, embodying the successful synergy between educational and civic planning. The centre features a 25-meter, six-lane swimming pool with dedicated changing areas, a fully equipped gym, and a six-court sports hall that accommodates various sporting activities. Key aspects of the building include a versatile multi-use space and fitness suite, with frameless glass screens that offer unobstructed views of the pool. The integration of a café with the viewing area enhances user convenience and creates a cohesive layout.
Exterior features, such as a blue rendered feature wall, aesthetically link the centre to the adjacent Edale building and align with the school's colour scheme, ensuring a harmonious visual connection across the campus. To enhance sustainability and user comfort, Brise Soleil louvres were installed around the swimming pool external glazing, managing sunlight to protect the pool environment. The project successfully provided a modern sporting facility, making optimal use of space and improving amenities for sports, fitness, and community events. The design not only meets practical needs but also offers a sustainable and architecturally appealing facility. This enhances its role as a vital community asset in Etwall, reinforcing the centre's importance in promoting health and wellness. Overall, the leisure centre at John Port School stands as a testament to thoughtful architectural design, balancing functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. It demonstrates how educational and civic planning can come together to create a facility that serves and enriches the community, fostering a healthier, more connected environment for all.
