Hopes grow of funding decision by Christmas for new £36 million indoor swimming pool for Peterborough
Hopes are growing that Government funding for a £36 million indoor swimming pool in Peterborough could be in place before the end of the year.
It is understood that discussions with Treasury officials over the amount of Government financial support have been taking place for some time and an agreement could be in place soon.
And it is hoped that the green light for the project to build a 25 metre long swimming pool off Bishop’s Road on the site of the now demolished Regional Pool, could be given before Christmas or even by the time of the Budget on November 26.
Peterborough MP Andrew Pakes said: “We have sent the officials the outline plans that Peterborough City Council’s cabinet has agreed and we are in discussions with them.
“I am really hopeful given the serious nature of our plans.
He said: "The Government has been impressed by the range of groups and organisations that have come together to help shape the plans.
"I am pushing for us to get the green light so we can begin as soon as possible.”
Plans for a new indoor competition-grade 25 metres long swimming pool with eight lanes and an attached fitness centre were unveiled at the beginning of last month.
The proposals were jointly put together by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA), Peterborough City Council, ARU Peterborough, City of Peterborough Swimming Club, Friends of the Lido and Living Sport.
The plans were the result of a feasibility study and regular meetings with key stakeholders including both city MPs over the summer.
Early hopes of an Olympic-grade swimming pool were dropped on the grounds of cost and the need to provide a multi-use facility that would be sufficient for children's swimming lessons and other activities.
The move was triggered by a statement by Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, in her Spending Review in June this year, in which she announced the creation of a £240 million Growth Mission Fund fund to expedite local projects that are important for growth.
She told MPs then that funds might be found to drive the creation of a Sports Quarter as part of the ARU Peterborough campus in Bishop’s Road.
What will £36 million buy for Peterborough?
The exact cost of the proposed 25 metre swimming pool is £36,572,000. It is not yet known how much will be provided by the Government or how the rest of the funding will be provided.
But the money will mean the new pool and sports centre will include:
- An eight lanes, 25 metre long competition-grade indoor swimming pool
- Poolside and balcony seating for 300 people.
- A 20 metre four lane learner pool with moveable floor.
- Café
- Softplay
- Innerva health suite.
- Community room.
- Health rooms
- Fitness suite with 150 stations and studios.