Cascades Leisure Centre 1
Status
Abandoned
Condition
Fair
Date opened
31 May 1969
Date closed
14 August 2020
Architects
Douglas Smith, Ian Whittle
Architects
Douglas Smith, Ian Whittle

Originally slated for demolition following the inauguration of the South Lakes Leisure Centre – a new £35 million, state-of-the-art Leisure centre – Cascades faced closure. The South Lakes Leisure Centre features a 50m swimming pool, a 17m training pool, and a 200-spectator seating area. Additionally, its facilities include a fully equipped gym, health and fitness suites, an outdoor water sports section, and a social enterprise cafe.

Cascades Leisure Centre 2
Cascades when in use – Image credit: Trip Advisor

In 2017, when planning permission was granted for the South Lakes Centre, the fate of the following leisure centres was sealed:

  • Waves Leisure Centre, Lurgan – Closed on 20th June 2020.
  • Brownlow Centre, Craigavon – Closed on 4th July 2020.
  • Cascades Leisure Centre, Portadown – Closed on 14th August 2020.

When Cascades was operational, its facilities included:

  • 6 lane, 33-meter pool.
  • 13-foot-deep end.
  • 1m, 3m, and 5m diving boards.
  • 300 seat spectator gallery.
  • Smaller pool for children and learners.
  • Thermal health suite, housing a hot tub and steam room.
  • Full gym facilities, encompassing both a free weights area and cycling machines.

However, not everyone embraced the amalgamation of the three centres into the South Lake complex. Numerous residents, hindered by the perceived complexity of the new booking system, found it challenging to access the pool facilities, particularly those from schools and clubs utilising the pool regularly.

In December 2020, the Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon Borough Council tendered for the demolition of Cascades, estimating the contract’s value at approximately £200,000.

On 29th October 2022, Cadhan Litter created a petition to reopen Cascades Portadown, addressing the overcrowding issues at the South Lakes Leisure Centre. At present, the petition has garnered support from over 1,200 individuals.

Meanwhile, with no update on the demolition tender, Cascades was listed on the market with a guide price of £500,000 on 9th June 2023.

The site encompasses the Cascades Leisure Centre building (circa 2.6 acres), the associated car park, and adjoining undeveloped land. The listing indicates that Cascades, occupying approximately 4 acres, is suitable for both commercial and residential redevelopment, designated as ‘white land’ under the Craigavon Area Plan. Any future developments, however, will remain contingent on obtaining the requisite planning permission(s).

In August 2024, the complex went ‘Sale Agreed’.

The Main Pool

Comprising of a 6 lane, 33 meter pool, with accompanying diving boards with heights of 1m, 3m and 5m.

Learners Pool

Jacuzzi zone

Cardio and weights

Changing Rooms

Staff Area

Stairs

Entrance