A leisure centre in Teignmouth has reopened after a £3.7 million redevelopment.

The Teignbridge District Council-run Broadmeadow Sports Centre has been closed since September 2024 for the major refurbishment to take place.

Teignbridge District Council executive member for leisure and recreation councillor John Nutley cut the ribbon to formally open the centre. ‘This is a proud day for Teignbridge; this is not just the unveiling of a modern, revitalised leisure facility, but a bold step forward in our commitment to sustainability, accessibility and community wellbeing,’ he announced.

‘Thanks to this significant investment, Broadmeadow now offers a brighter, more inclusive, more energy efficient space for everyone,’ he added. ‘This is a facility that reflects our values: modern, efficient and environmentally friendly.’

The upgraded centre includes refurbished changing facilities, extended studio space, a new, accessible entrance and reception area, extended gym areas with new equipment and more energy efficient heating and insulation.

The refurbishment of the changing facilities has not been without controversy. Teignbridge was accused of creating a ‘pervert’s charter’ over its decision to introduce village-style unisex changing rooms in addition to separate single-sex changing rooms for men and women.

Protesters from the Women’s Rights Network attended the official opening with a red banner, which read ‘Warning’.

‘We want to protect women’s spaces,’ said Jenny Dingsdale from the Women’s Rights Network. ‘Mixed sex changing rooms are more dangerous for women. We want to end exhibitionism, voyeurism and assaults.’

Teignbridge Council’s overview and scrutiny committee concluded in May this year that the new Broadmeadow facilities were likely to comply with the requirements of the Equality Act. Barrister Jonathan Ward said: ‘Broadmeadow sets a very good example of the way in which these requirements can be complied with – with separate male and female facilities plus village facilities.’

However, the Women’s Rights Network is disappointed that Teignbridge has removed space from the female changing rooms to make room for the village-style changing area.