Exciting plans for a new eight lane 25 metre swimming pool and fitness centre in Peterborough are set to be progressed, subject to funding being secured.
Councillors will be asked to approve a preferred option in principle to replace the city’s Regional Fitness and Swimming Centre at a meeting of the authority’s Cabinet taking place at Sand Martin House on Tuesday 14 October.
The move comes following a feasibility study into options for a replacement facility and regular meetings between council officers and key stakeholders in the project, including both city MPs, the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA), ARU Peterborough, City of Peterborough Swimming Club, Friends of the Lido and Living Sport.
This work has led officers to recommend that plans for a 25 metre, eight lane main pool and fitness centre are developed. If approved, officers will start work on a detailed business plan for submission to government, the CPCA and other external funders to attract capital funding for the development.
The proposed facility would also include poolside and balcony seating for 300 people, a 20 metre four lane learner pool with moveable floor, a café, softplay, Innerva health suite, community room and health rooms, as well as a fitness suite with 150 stations and studios.
Councillor Zameer Ali, Peterborough City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Poverty and Public Health, said: “I am delighted that our exciting plans for this much-needed facility are moving forward, demonstrating this administration’s commitment to collaborative working and focus on key projects. Back in the summer we welcomed the government's £240 million funding pot for local projects and we anticipate this will pay for a substantial part of the pool. We will also work with partners to secure additional funding for this vital development.
“As one of the fastest growing cities in the country we are fully aware that Peterborough needs a new swimming pool as soon as possible. As a council, we also must balance the need to increase swimming and sporting provision alongside affordability and running costs. This is why we have explored a range of options and are looking to progress what we and our partners feel is the most suitable choice.”
The Regional Fitness and Swimming Centre was decommissioned in March 2024 due to multiple structural issues. The decision was taken to demolish the site and explore options for a new facility.
The location of the replacement pool has been thoroughly considered with multiple sites reviewed and discussed with stakeholders. It is recommended that the pool should be city centre based to take advantage of the public transport links, proximity to the Lido and other commercial advantages.
It was also noted that other non-city centre locations were not viable due to size of land, accessibility and reduced commercial opportunities.
To read the Cabinet meeting agenda visit our agenda page on the Democracy Peterborough website.