The programme of "essential repairs and improvements" to Bishop's Castle Arts and Leisure Centre, also known as SpArC, was approved by Shropshire Council's cabinet on Wednesday, September 10. The funding for the refurbishment will come from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), along with contributions from other sources. The refurbishment will include two main projects: a decarbonisation initiative and a pool refurbishment. Councillor James Owen, Shropshire Council’s cabinet member for leisure, said: "This refurbishment is a significant investment in our community. Councillor Ruth Houghton, Shropshire councillor for Bishop’s Castle, said: "This is wonderful news for Bishop’s Castle and South West Shropshire.