Cash strapped council extend length of Sobell Leisure Centre’s Pool
Exciting improvements that will increase the capacity for lessons and different activities in Sobell Leisure Centre’s Pools have been confirmed.
Sobell Leisure Centre, Aberdare, has secured Swim Wales funding to invest in and remodel the swimming pool at the site, so that it can better cater to the needs of swimmers.
The installation of a ‘boom’ will allow the creation of a 25m swimming pool, which is regarded as the correct size-standard for competitive swimming and training, and will allow the Centre to attract an increased number of galas, as well as providing capacity to extend Junior Learn to Swim.
Installation of the ‘boom’ will also create a smaller pool area, which will increase capacity for swimming lessons, aquatic activities and children’s parties.
The investment will benefit a wide range of residents, as remodelling the pool will also have a positive effect on public swim time, by reducing the pressure on lane swimming pool space.
While work is being carried out, this opportunity will also be taken to upgrade the pool’s filtration system for the benefit of customers, as well as upgrading the existing poolside changing rooms.
Due to the significant nature of the work, which is set to begin on March 1, all three pools at Sobell Leisure Centre will be closed for approximately four weeks.
All groups and clubs that use the pools regularly have been informed, and customers with queries are welcome to contact staff at the Sobell Leisure Centre.
Leisure for Life members are reminded that they are able to use the swimming pools and aqua activities at any of the pools in Rhondda Cynon Taf, with Abercynon being the nearest venue for swimming and water-based fitness classes.
Councillor Ann Crimmings, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Leisure and Heritage, said: “We are delighted to have secured Swim Wales funding to bring the pool at Sobell Leisure Centre in line with others in the region.
“Currently, the pool does not conform to standards that are required for training and competitive swimming, so I am pleased to announce that the investment will help to rectify these issues.
“I am also pleased that the remodelling of the pool will increase capacity for casual swimmers by reducing pressure on pool space, while at the same time creating a dedicated section that will cater to children’s parties, swimming lessons and aquatic activities.
“There will inevitably be some initial inconvenience while we carry out the remodelling work, however, we are taking the opportunity, while the pools are closed for this work, to also improve the filtration system and changing rooms – an added benefit to swimmers.
“This is a significant project and will require a long closure, but we hope customers will bear with us as we work on their behalf and apologise for the inconvenience caused.”
