PLANS to build a demountable swimming pool at Rivermead have taken a leap forward after a planning application was lodged in late December.

Since it was announced last year that Central Pool and Arthur Hill Swimming Baths would be closed, Reading Borough Council have been eyeing up temporary alternatives for the town's swimmers before two new permanent pools open in 2020.

Their solution is a 25-metre, five lane pool that will sit alongside the fitness centre, lagoon pool and sports hall at the Rivermead site.

Reading Chronicle:

A demountable pool is a medium term structure with a typical life span of 10 years.

Work will begin on the project in May 2017 if councillors approve the application at a meeting on February 8.

If all goes to schedule, the facilities will open in January 2018 and are expected to remain in place for at least two years.

Paul Shearman, partnership manager for Greenwich Leisure Ltd (GLL) who manage Rivermead and have submitted the planning application, said: “We are delighted to be able to work in partnership with the council to support the introduction of the demountable pool at Rivermead.

“GLL is committed to offering quality services at affordable prices for the local community, and the demountable pool will certainly offer fantastic swimming provision for local people.”

Reading Chronicle:

Under the proposals, those with Reading Sport and Leisure memberships will not have access to the temporary pool unless they transfer to GLL membership during a window that will be announced at a later date.

Due to the proposed 1.2m depth of the pool however, Reading Diving Club, Reading Synchro Club and the Octopush club will be unable to make use of the facilities. The Council are working to help the clubs find alternative arrangements.

The council plan to construct a six lane, 25 metre pool in Palmer Park and a competition pool at Rivermead to open in 2020.