FAQs
What is being planned?
Plans propose that Birchwood leisure centre are to redevelop the library, reception and changing rooms, upgrade the fitness suite and expand the first floor studio. We are also introducing a brand-new dedicated Group Cycle Studio with a selection of instructor-led classes, as well and Les Mills virtual classes available on-demand.
The facility will utilise LiveWire’s established and successful Hub model that places leisure and library services under one roof, to encourage people to participate in new activities to support mental and physical wellbeing.
When is the new Hub going to open?
Following the completion of construction works and fit-out, the tennis courts will now be open from the 2nd of September with the library, studios and gym opening from the 25th of September.
Will the existing complex need to close during construction?
Although we remain semi-operational throughout our construction process there will be areas that are temporarily closed.
- The gym will be closed from the 4th of September to the 25th of September. The Studio will be closed from the 21st of August to the 25th of September.
- The indoor tennis courts will be closed from the 14th of August to the 2nd of September.
- The Library with be closed from the 9th of September to the 25th of September.
* Subject to change depending on the construction progress. We will maintain ongoing communication to keep you informed.
Will the existing Complex need to close during construction?
It is anticipated that partial closure of certain areas will be required at different stages of the project. A detailed plan of such works will be communicated in due course.
A group fitness offer will continue to run during all phases of the redevelopment, by re-locating these session to other areas of the facility. Full details to be released.
Is it a dementia friendly building?
Whilst we will not be seeking full accreditation for the building in the same way as was achieved at Great Sankey Neighbourhood Hub, the design and fit out of the building has all been deliberately planned with reference to the same dementia friendly guidance at all stages.
Who is the main contractor?
Schofield and Sons are the main contractor.
Will the Hub retain a gym?
Yes, there will be a newly fitted out fitness suite with accessible and modern equipment which will include an expanded functional fitness space and free weights area. Members do not need to pre-book to use the gym, and can stay as long as they like within opening hours.
What other work is taking place?
Along with the refurbishment of our existing fitness studio, gym and library, we are also:
- Refurbishment of the current reception desk and surrounding spaces with additional seating and improved area for tennis retail items.
- Refurbishment of the core leisure changing room facilities.
- A new, additional, fitness studio dedicated to group cycle sessions on the ground floor.
- An expansion of the existing first-floor studio to create greater capacity.
How will I check-in when I arrive?
Members will be able to use the new self-service machine on arrival to enable access.
Will there be any changes to the current tennis programme?
The existing external and internal tennis courts will be retained and no changes are proposed to the current programme.
Will you be providing additional exercise classes and are they included in my membership?
Yes, the combination of an extended studio along with a new studio will enable an increased programme of group exercise classes to run seven days per week including group cycle, yoga, pilates, and Les Mills classes. Both studios will also include scheduled and on-demand virtual group fitness sessions to expand the programme offering.
These are all included in the cost of your membership or can also be accessed on a pay-as-you-go basis.
How do I book classes?
You can book classes online via the website or LiveWire App, or alternatively you can book via telephone or by calling into the Hub. Classes are bookable eight days in advance.
Will you provide lockers?
Yes, lockers will continue to be available for use by customers close to and within the changing areas.
Are food and drinks available for purchase?
Yes, the existing vending machines provision on the ground floor will be maintained, enabling hot & cold drinks and snacks to be purchased.
Are there any community / meeting rooms available for hire?
Yes, the existing Community Room will be retained and available to hire.
Are there any facilities for bike storage?
Yes, bicycle spaces are available in a covered area close to the Hub building.
Do I have to be a LiveWire member to use the Hub?
No, whilst we would encourage all potential customers and visitors to the Hub to consider the benefits of a LiveWire membership which will open up access to a whole range of additional services and activities, there is no need to be a member to visit the Hub, relax in the Hub, nor to stay and simply socialise.
Are any improvements being made to the tennis courts / tennis programme?
Yes, there will be a brand new flooring laid to this area, along with new perimeter/divider curtains being installed.
What are the Hub opening times?
As per current opening hours, they can be viewed here.
Where is the new library?
Located on the ground floor, achieved by the transformation of an underutilised bar area and associated spaces, the new open plan library will also include a children’s area. The library will operate as part of the existing network of LiveWire libraries across Warrington.
When will the library be open for use?
The library in the new Hub will be closed from the 9th of September and will be available to use whenever from the 25th of September.
Will you have computers for public use?
There are public computer facilities, along with wi-fi access for your own devices all within a flexible ground floor space available for use by all customers.
Do I have to pay just to use the library?
Membership to LiveWire libraries is free and open to anyone who resides in the UK.
You will need to register with LiveWire on a Starter card, which can be done online or in your local LiveWire facility. The Starter card will give you access to LiveWire libraries and leisure facilities on a pay-as-you-go basis.
Will the new library have any effect on the current arrangements for spectators?
No, the existing tennis hall access is unchanged along with retaining the benches available for spectators. The new library will also be flexibly designed in such a way that spectators may also continue to use this space near to the viewing window by the tennis hall.
What about my overdue books from Birchwood?
Any fines on overdue due to the closure of Birchwood will be waived for the closure period. We understand that changes can be inconvenient, and we want to make this transition as smooth as possible for you. Remember that you can borrow and return books from and to any LiveWire Library during our redevelopment. Our digital shelves never close! Visit our website to access online resources, ebooks, and audiobooks anytime you like.
Where is the closest alternative library that I can use during the closure?
You can use any of our LiveWire libraries during the closure, but the closest to Birchwood are Padgate, Culcheth, and Woolston libraries.
What are the opening hours once the new library is open?
Once we reopen, the new library will be accessible for all the opening hours of the centre. We’re extending our reach to provide you with more flexibility.
