A POPULAR soft play centre in Bracknell has announced its closure.

Whoosh play centre in Bracknell Leisure Centre has announced it will be closing its doors on July 8.

Bosses revealed the news on social media.

It was announced that the closure is due to the refurbishment of the leisure centre in partnership with Bracknell Forest Council.

Whoosh wrote a statement on social media, which said: "This is a very hard announcement to make.

"I am sorry to have to tell you that on the 8th July 2023, Whoosh will be closing its doors permanently. I know this news will come as a shock to a lot of people.

"Whoosh has been a firm favourite of Bracknell for over 20 years, and for me personally since I took over in 2016. We managed to turn the soft play around making it a popular place to let the kids run around safely, offering amazing affordable parties for all. I am proud of what we have achieved, we survived the pandemic coming back even stronger than before, but good things must come to an end at some point. 

"Everyone Active in partnership with Bracknell Forest Council are working on proposals to develop and refurbish areas of Bracknell Leisure Centre that were unaffected by the investment made in 2018. The development means that Everyone Active will manage the soft play offering in house and will provide a complete revamp, bringing it up to date and offering a totally fresh space for kids and all to enjoy. Everything will be shiny and new waiting for all lovely and amazing customers to return. I haven't seen the designs yet but know what they are considering and it sounds very exciting.

"I wanted to thank all our amazing loyal customers who kept on coming back, who know all our names and always have a smile on your face. We will miss you.

"I personally wanted to thank Gayle who started at Whoosh a month into me taking over. She has given everything these past 7 years. I couldn't have done it without her.

"We will miss you all." 

Families have already responded to the news, with one person commenting; "I cannot believe the words I’m reading  I’m shocked and gutted!

"Your SEN nights were loved by my son and his friends who could enjoy and meet in a safe environment."

Stephanie Raymond said: "We’ve always enjoyed whoosh when we moved to Bracknell 5 years ago and been to many parties which the children have always loved. Let’s hope the renovation is affordable."

Hazel Jane Merry added: "Oh no that is really sad to hear I’ve been coming since you opened with my own children and ones I have looked after.

"It won’t be the same without Gayle and Zoe being behind the counter making the coffee and have a good chat with."