Pool project is up and running

The old baths at the Barbican, which closed down earlier this month, are set to be replaced by a new pool on the other side of Kent Street.

But although outline planning permission for the pool and an associated new fitness suite has now been granted, following the Government's decision not to call a public inquiry, it will be more than two years before the pool will open to swimmers.

However, Charlie Croft, City of York Council's assistant director of leisure and lifelong learning, has revealed that the first step in the process has already begun, with specialist firms invited last month to submit expressions of interest.

The deadline for submissions was early next month, with a shortlist then being drawn up and a preferred bidder being selected by the autumn.

He said the winning firm would take on the whole project, including design and build.

The council had already drawn up basic specifications, but it would be up to the firm, in consultation with swimmming groups, to come up with a detailed scheme which all parties were happy with. This would then be submitted to the authority as a detailed planning application next year.

He said certain basics were guaranteed. For example, there would have to be full access into the water for disabled swimmers.

There would also have to be full provision for learner swimmers, but it was not yet decided if this would mean a completely separate trainer pool, as happened at the old Barbican Centre.

Another issue to be addressed would be the type of changing facilities, although it was felt there were many advantages in the provision of a poolside mixed-sex "changing village" rather than traditional male and female changing rooms.

It would take up less space in a tight site, it would be easier to staff and clean, and it was less susceptible to theft and damage because it was within sight of swimmers.

Updated: 09:17 Saturday, June 26, 2004