Leisure centre refurbishment to start in October

A six month refurbishment programme will begin at North Devon Leisure Centre this autumn.

Next month, North Devon Council will be selecting a contractor to carry out the work, which will begin on 31 October and should be complete by April 2012.

The work will help maintain the 40-year old building for the future and includes repairs to the roof, the steel and concrete frame of the building, cleaning and repainting the pool tank interiors and a full refurbishment of the wet changing areas. The council has also secured £22,000 from the Amateur Swimming Association for spectator seating and a disabled hoist.

A structural survey carried out by the council in 2009 revealed that a number of key improvements need to be made to keep the building safe. If the works are not undertaken now then the building may require more substantial repairs in the future, which would force the centre to close completely.

Executive Member for Culture, Councillor Derrick Spear says: "The leisure centre is a very popular facility in the town, which is why it's so important that it is maintained. Although users of the pool and fitness facilities will experience some disruption, these works are essential and will really improve the look and feel of the building and safeguard it for future use."

The council will be working closely with Parkwood Leisure to ensure that users of the leisure centre are kept informed of the progress of the refurbishment once it is underway.

It is estimated that the swimming pool will be unavailable for up to six months, with minor disruption to other areas. Full information regarding closures will be displayed on the council website and in the leisure centre reception area.