Community pavilion set for £495k major refurbishment

At a Cabinet meeting on Monday 19 January 2026 councillors agreed essential refurbishment and compliance works to Wadkins Pavilion in Thurnby and Bushby to ensure it is fit for purpose for ongoing community use. 

Improvements will include a full roof renewal and insulation, concrete and structural repairs, complete window replacement, drainage repairs, installation of an accessible WC and a refit and decoration of the existing toilets and changing rooms. 

The project is expected to cost around £495,000 and is necessary to ensure the pavilion meets all current statutory requirements, maintains the highest standards of health and safety for its users, and secures the long-term longevity of the building. 

Upon completion of the works, the council will engage in negotiations with interested parties to secure and enhance the future community use of the facility, ensuring it continues to serve as a valuable hub for local residents and the wider community. 

Cllr Jim Knight, Harborough District Council’s Cabinet lead for Finance Services, said: “It is important that we undertake these essential refurbishment works to protect this popular building and support its continued use for sport and recreational activities. I am looking forward to seeing Wadkins Pavilion revitalised and ready for many more years of community service. 

Jonathan Silver, Chairman of Houghton and Thurnby Cricket Club, said: “This is extremely good news. As a club we have a widely diverse membership and improving our facilities will enable us to increase that membership to the benefit of all. In addition, we hope that these improvements will encourage the wider local community to use the facilities when cricket is not being played.” 

A spokesperson for Thurnby and Bushby Parish Council said: “We are eager to support Harborough District Council’s plans for the refurbishment of the Wadkins Pavilion, which has potential to provide a much-needed space for community, social and sporting groups. The council is also keen to consider future ways of supporting the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of the pavilion in the longer term, including the possibility of eventually assuming ownership of the facility."

The council will now begin a procurement process to find a suitable contractor for the works to start as soon as possible.