Stratford Park Leisure Centre in Stroud is set to close on Wednesday 13 December until Friday 22 December 2023 for a major heating upgrade as part of the council's £5 million investment into renewable energy.
During the closure, the centre is offering its swim members free and full access to the gym, so they can continue to stay active over this period. Those who are signed up for swimming lessons will be offered a discount on lessons. And for members still wishing to swim, the Pulse leisure centre in Dursley will be open.
The sports hall, fitness suite and cafe will remain open during this time, while the upgrade to the new renewable heating system is carried out.
The work, which is being completed by Stonehouse-based energy specialists Cotswold Energy Group, is part of a £5 million project to upgrade to cutting-edge green technology. The new system will use outside air and recycled heat from the changing rooms and swimming pool to provide the heating, which will also be boosted by additional solar panels.
The pool water heat exchanger and the air handling unit for the swimming pool area will be replaced, which will allow for more efficient pool water heating and improved air quality in the swimming pool.
Councillor Beki Aldam, chair of Stroud District Council's community services and licensing committee, said: 'I’m delighted that Stratford Park Leisure Centre is able to remain
partially open while the most disruptive works are taking place.
'Late December is a quieter time for the pool which means fewer swimmers will be inconvenienced for as short a time as possible. Leisure centre users can be assured that we are investing in the future of our leisure facilities at a time when public swimming pools across the country are facing financial difficulties, and they will be given access to the gym facilities during the temporary closure.'
This completely eco-friendly system will save hundreds of tonnes of carbon emissions every year and is a key part of Stroud District Council's pledge to strive to be carbon neutral by 2030.
