AMBITIOUS plans for the redevelopment of a Wokingham town centre pool have been submitted by Wokingham Borough Council (WBC).
The proposed extension and refurbishment of the Carnival Pool complex, in Wellington Road, is part of the town’s long-term regeneration project, and will include a new 529-space multi-storey car park, a new pedestrianised area and 49 residential apartments with their own dedicated parking spaces.
Head of town centre regeneration at WBC, Bernie Pich, said: “The proposals for the leisure redevelopment are all about improving the variety and quality of facilities available in the town centre.
“Wokingham is one of the best places to live in the country and it’s important we can help the town live up to its reputation and support a fantastic quality of life for our local residents.”
The plans propose the building of the car park first, expected to be started in spring 2016 and completed by the end of the year, which will also provide a brand new home for the bowling alley.
The designs were subject to public consultation in February and reflect local’s comments, including their preference for a contemporary design and the use of brick and wood materials.
Plans for the rest of the site have been submitted in outline format to show how it could be developed in the future. The council will now work on submitting detailed designs for the leisure, public space and residential elements using feedback from the recent public consultation as well as discussions with potential leisure providers.
Mr Pich said: “The new leisure facilities would be a great asset for the town. We will be looking to provide a multi-court sports hall which could also be turned into a performance venue, studio and community spaces, a bigger gym and brand new changing facilities.
“We look forward to sharing details with local people next year as we move into the next stage of the project.”
The planning application documents are available to view on the council’s website by
Picture: Wokingham Borough Council
searching for planning application: O/2015/1056. They are also available in hard copy at the Planning Desk, at the Civic Offices, Shute End, Wokingham.
Copies of the plans and documents will be available to view in the Mall Gallery at the Civic Offices, Town Hall Information Centre and Wokingham Library.
