CONTRACTS have finally been signed for work to get underway on Kenilworth’s multi-million pound swimming pool.
Inflation, archaeological investigation and supply chain issues in the construction industry have caused numerous delays to the leisure development project.
But now following an extended period of re-costing, Warwick District Council (WDC) has reached an agreement with AR Demolition Ltd to demolish the current facilities and with Kier to construct the new pools and adjoining amenities.
The new indoor swimming pool is part of a multi-million pound plan for a sports hall, gym and fitness studios, as well as a new HQ for local scouts and guides on the site of Castle Farm Recreation Centre, which will be renamed Castle Farm Leisure Centre.
It is set to replace the town’s, now closed, 125-year-old lido, which campaigners have been keen to retain.
The campaign group has also hit out at the repeated delays to the leisure project, which was initially given the green light by planning chiefs in 2021. They claim restoring the lido would cost less financially and environmentally.
WDC spokesperson for economy and culture, Coun Liam Bartlett, said: “Whilst we regret the delay in starting work, it was crucial that we did not compromise on the quality or value for money to council taxpayers for these new facilities.
“I am therefore delighted to report that contracts are now signed, allowing us to provide the district’s residents with two wonderful swimming pools at Abbey Fields, with additional year-round pool space, sun-terrace and café, which is in keeping with its beautiful backdrop.
“It is my intention to offer local taxpayers as much transparency as possible over the revised project costs and will be providing a council committee with a comprehensive report at the earliest opportunity.”
The next stage of work will see demolition contractors on site, installing fencing and hoarding. There will also be further archaeological investigations. These investigations will be running at the same time as the demolition. A section of medieval wall was found by builders during preparation work on the ground last month.
The council has confirmed that the children’s playground and tennis courts will be closed during the works, although the play area will remain open at weekends for the entirety of the project. While the path from Bridge Street and the small footbridge next to the swimming pool will also be closed during the work.
A temporary path is being created over the duck feeding platform in Abbey Fields to allow access from High Street to Abbey Hill, which will open when the hoarding is assembled, preventing any inconvenience to the public and park users.
Details of alternative leisure provisions can be found at https://www.warwickdc.gov.uk/leisurecentres.
