The funding will enhance landscaping and external groundworks as part of the wider multi-million-pound investment in the town’s community swimming facilities.
The Abbey Fields site, home to a scheduled ancient monument, has housed swimming facilities since the 1890s, with updates in the 1930s, 1960s, and 1980s. The most recent structures were demolished in 2022 to make way for a complete redesign and rebuild.
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The new facility will feature state-of-the-art amenities, including family and learner pools with moveable floors to accommodate various ages and abilities. Additionally, a multi-use community space will offer a café and outdoor terrace.
The HS2 funding will be used to create an inviting outdoor space around the new pool, featuring pathways, public seating, and landscaping that integrates seamlessly with the site’s historic surroundings.
Construction work began in May 2023 after delays caused by the discovery of medieval remains during excavation. The project is expected to be completed by summer 2026.
