New pool project for Ollerton going swimmingly despite current restrictions

Work on a new swimming pool for Ollerton has reached an important milestone this week.

Part of a major investment programme in leisure facilities across the district, the 20 metre-long five lane pool will adjoin Newark and Sherwood District Council’s existing Dukeries Leisure Centre.

The foundations and concrete base have now been completed, along with additional car parking, which means the building of the facility can start taking shape.

Work has begun to this effect as the crucial steel frame structure is now being erected.

This important stage of the build will soon allow the building to become substantially watertight so the pool itself can be constructed.

This means that over the next few weeks, local residents passing the site will start to see a real visual difference as this fantastic new facility comes together before their eyes.

Adrian Turner, director of project partner, Total Swimming Pools, said: “It’s great to see this project develop and I’m thrilled to say that despite the current climate, we’re still on track to launch this facility by summer 2021. We’re so pleased to be part of this development in partnership with Newark and Sherwood District Council, and look forward to handing it over to the local community.”

Building work has been allowed to continue in line with the government’s guidance which specifies that construction work may carry on during this period of national restrictions.

The pool project has received great support from Sport England and the completed facility will include a reception area, changing village and viewing area.

Expansion to the current leisure centre, operated by Active4Today, is much needed as the surrounding area continues to grow and develop.

With the emphasis on how exercise benefits not only people’s physical health but their mental health as well, there has never been a more crucial time to develop the leisure provision within the district.

Roger Jackson, chairman of the district council’s leisure and environment committee, said: “Recent times have proved a real challenge for everyone’s mental and physical wellbeing so opening this facility next year will be a real boost for getting people of all ages back on track to a happy and healthy lifestyle.

"I’m very proud that we’re on course to deliver a much-needed top quality facility to this ever-growing area, laying a foundation for a positive, active future for our residents.”

The new pool follows the opening of Newark Sports and Fitness Centre four years ago in a series of major investments in facilities across Newark and Sherwood, part of the council’s continued commitment to deliver more advanced leisure provision in the district.