THE FINAL designs for the city’s long-awaited £10.4 million swimming pool have been given the green light.
Worcester City Council’s planning committee voted unanimously last Thursday (May 21) to approve the designs for the new 25-metre pool at Perdiswell Leisure Centre.
Hopes that work can begin in October may now be realised with the city council’s cabinet expected to meet in July to appoint a contractor.
The complex will host regional competitions with its 250 seats for spectators as well as dedicated viewing areas for the disabled.
The designs have been made to accommodate swimmers of all abilities with a depth rating from one metre to two metres. It will also have a learner pool with a movable floor suitable for everyone from toddlers to pensioners.
Alongside the pool, the leisure centre itself will be undergoing a revamp with 120 gym stations and a café.
The existing sports hall is also due a refurbishment once this project is completed.
Coun David Wilkinson said: “It’s been a long road getting to this point, but the pool that Worcester deserves is almost in touching distance.
“The new pool will be a major enhancement to Worcester’s growing reputation as a vibrant sporting city.”
The existing pool at Sansome Walk will remain open until the Perdiswell complex opens its door which is expected to happen in early 2017.
A leisure centre partner is currently being recruited to operate the new pool alongside the St John’s Sports Centre and Nunnery Wood Sports Complex.
