New pictures released today show work has started on the roof at Dudley’s new £18.2 million leisure centre, with construction continuing at pace into the New Year.
Roof liner sheets have gone on above the main fitness area and sports hall store, with a start also made above the pool hall. It is hoped the roof will be completed early next year. It comes as work continues below, with pictures showing brickwork continuing to come along and the first images of smooth flooring in parts of the site. Water tests have been passed for the main and learner pool, and works to the pool filtration pipework are ongoing. The £18.2 million project - funded by Dudley Council and delivered by Alliance Leisure - will provide a vibrant, modern hub for people to exercise, socialise and relax.
The new facility will include a 25 metre, eight-lane swimming pool and a teaching pool with spectator provision. There will be a four-court sports hall suitable for indoor football, badminton and more.
The investment will also include a 100-station gym and fitness suite, two group exercise studios for a wide range of exercise classes and an immersive cycle studio.
For families with younger children there will be a soft play area with catering facilities and a party room, and a café open to all users of the centre. And for those who want to relax after their workout session there’s set to be a sauna.
The facility will also have a power assisted toning suite to enable those recovering from injury and older customers to enjoy exercising.
Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of the council, said:
"Every time I see new pictures I am always amazed at the speed with which work is progressing, and it’s great to see the roof start to take shape.
"It is exciting to think the people of Dudley will soon have a first-class, state of the art leisure facility to enjoy."
Councillor Ian Kettle, cabinet member for regeneration and enterprise, said:
"It’s great to see the work moving on at speed.
"It already looks an impressive structure, and I look forward to seeing further developments over the coming months.
"The plans are part of a wider major regeneration programme bringing over £1 billion investment to the town centre. The leisure centre will benefit from excellent public transport links through the forthcoming adjacent Metro stop and the nearby bus interchange."