Work continues on multi-million-pound scheme
Work continues on multi-million-pound scheme
The £27 million Sands Centre redevelopment has reached another significant milestone and is set to be completed in late autumn this year.
Now that the extension to the existing Sands Centre building is in place, work is well underway to complete new swimming provision at the site.
The tanks for the two swimming pools have been installed and have passed the water retaining test. Work is now underway to complete the main pool structure, fit the pool equipment, and install the finishes and equipment.
The roof slab, external frame, substructure, and intermediate floor slabs are complete. Work is underway to fit the external cladding, curtain walling and windows to make the building weathertight.
National contractor Wates is undertaking the works on behalf of Carlisle City Council.
I’m delighted with the progress on The Sands Centre redevelopment. Work is well under way, and I’d like to thank all those involved in driving the project forward during challenging times.
The Sands Centre redevelopment represents a cornerstone in our plans to support our communities to continue to improve their health and wellbeing. Carlisle is in urgent need of new swimming facilities. This is a one-off opportunity with a dual benefit of all the facilities being on one site. I look forward to seeing its completion later this year.”
Cllr John Mallinson
Leader of Carlisle City Council
The new Sands Centre building will be set across two storeys and accessed by a bespoke, internal street, the new build extension will add 40,000sqft to the existing building, with the redeveloped centre offering state-of-the-art facilities including a 25m main pool and a 20m learner pool complete with an innovative moveable floor.
There will be a four-court sports hall with a spectator gallery, a 120-station fitness suite, and a spinning studio, as well as improvements to the existing events hall.
It will also boast a café and bar area and dance studios.
We are pleased that Wates has played a part in this important redevelopment for the City of Carlisle.
This project further marks our commitment to the city, the wider Cumbria region and to improve the health and wellbeing of the communities we serve.
We are proud to have generated over 50 graduate, training, and apprenticeship opportunities as well as ensuring over half our site team are from the local area. We look forward to completing this project as well as delivering a lasting positive impact for people across the region.”
Dave Saville
Regional Director North West, Wates Construction
The project will also consolidate the existing arrangements with the North Cumbria University Hospitals Trust Musculoskeletal (MSK) team. The MSK team already provide treatment services at The Sands Centre but will be able to expand their services and develop new joint/collective treatment and rehabilitation activities with GLL and other partners.
The improved facilities will include a range of sustainable features which will support Carlisle City Council’s plans for reducing carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency and providing sustainable, healthy transport options.
Construction on The Sands Centre redevelopment is scheduled to be completed by late autumn 2022. The existing Pools provision on James Street will remain in place until all construction at The Sands Centre has been completed.
The Arts & Entertainment programme (subject to Covid-19 restrictions) will restart in March. Temporary facilities are in place for catering, toilets and reception to ensure a great experience is maintained throughout the redevelopment. The entrance to the venue and the box office have also been relocated.
- Image credited to Stuart Walker Photography.
