Myth – We've not costed or considered a 50m pool.
Fact - Consideration was given to a 50m pool, however it was ruled out based on cost and timescale to deliver. It would cost an additional c£9m to deliver a 50m pool as opposed to a 25m. Plus, it would cost significantly more to operate the facility, an additional c£500k per annum. A 50m pool would not generate enough additional customers/revenue to justify the additional annual spend/subsidy from Peterborough City Council. Without the additional c£9m available to deliver a 50m pool, the project would be on hold for as long as it would take to identify the additional money. Working closely with our partners, which includes groups that use swimming facilities in the city, such as City of Peterborough Swimming Club, it was agreed that the plans proposed, which include a 25m pool, were preferrable as they could be delivered soonest and meet the needs of the vast majority of people in Peterborough.
Myth – Changing facilities will all be communal.
Fact - Following feedback from residents as part of the engagement survey and focus groups, it was clear there was a desire for both communal changing and private changing spaces. As a result, the designs include communal mixed sex changing areas for families, groups, swim clubs etc who prefer to change as a whole group, with ample changing cubicles provided in this space as well. In addition, there will be separate private male and female changing facilities. There will also be a full-size Changing Places facility as well as oversized disability friendly changing spaces for those who require extra room.
Myth – The nearby athletics track is at risk because of this development.
Fact – No it is not, the new leisure development will be built nearby. The athletics track will continue to operate as normal.
Myth – This is saddling the council with even more debt which will be paid for by taxpayers.
Fact – We continue to seek private sector funding for the development. However, we will use capital funding if needed as we know how important the new development is for residents. If capital funding is required, the cost of borrowing would be met in part by the income generated by the new development.