New Rivermead will open in phases: pool expected in ‘24

ONE OF Reading’s leisure facilities is set to return when its newly-built centre opens this summer.

Rivermead Leisure Centre is now poised to undergo a phased unveiling following the construction of a new building on the site.

While the project has experienced some delays relating to licensing, structural installations have been completed on time.

Contractor Pellikaan Construction said that dry facilities, including a sports hall, fitness centre, soft play area and cafe are due to open to the public in July.

The existing centre at the site will then be demolished to make space for a new car park and children’s play area.

It has, however, seen delays with the granting of an “abstraction” license from the Envirenment Agency which enables ground water levels to be lowered so that a deeper diving pool can be built.

Backlogs with applications mean that developers estimate the pool facilities are “unlikely to open before 2024.”

GLL’s regional director, Jamie Coleshill, said: “We’d like to apologise to customers and thank them for their patience while unforeseen delays to the project are managed.

“GLL, Pellikaan and Reading Borough Council are all working at pace, together, to bring forward these state-ofthe-art leisure facilities that will be the envy of the Thames Valley.

“With an emphasis on accessibility and affordability, the new leisure complex will support the health and wellbeing of thousands of residents young and old– getting more people more active more often.

“We know leisure centre users can’t wait to see inside – so keep a look out for updates on our opening weekend and tours.”

The project is a joint initiative between GLL and Reading Borough Council, with £1.5 million in funding from Sport England given to support Rivermead and Palmer Park projects.

Plans include a six-court sports hall, 120-station gym and studio, as well as new swimming and diving pools with adjustable flooring for teaching.

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For full details about leisure facilities around Reading, visit: better.org.uk

Picture: Phil Creighton COMING SOON: The replacement for Rivermead Leisure Centre is set to open in phases beginning this summer, which dry facilities due for July as pool licensing has caused an admin setback.