Diggers have broken ground at a new leisure cenntre in Reading.

Pictures show diggers in Rivermead on Monday, in the next step towards a competition-worthy swimming pool, gym and sports hall.

The work is part of Reading Borough Council’s £40M investment in new leisure facilities for the town, which includes a community pool in Palmer Park.

Reading Chronicle: The leisure centre site in RivermeadThe leisure centre site in Rivermead

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The new Rivermead facilities will include:

• 25m 8 lane competition pool, with moveable pool floor

• Splash pad for younger users

• A combined teaching and diving pool with a moveable floor

• 25m 5 lane club/swim lesson pool (demountable pool)

• A café, information hub, and soft play

• A 6-court sports hall with 250 spectator seats

• A 120-station gym with 3 studios

• A new outside play area The existing leisure centre will remain open until the new centre is complete.

Reading Chronicle: The new leisure centre site in RivermeadThe new leisure centre site in Rivermead

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The work at this site will take place in 2 phases, with the construction of the new leisure centre and the external public spaces completed before the demolition of the existing facility in Phase 2, which will make way for the remaining external areas, new sections of car park and a new play area.

Reading Chronicle: Work progresses at the new leisure centre site in ReadingWork progresses at the new leisure centre site in Reading