DORCHESTER: Work to start on new leisure centre

Plans to convert the old Thomas Hardye Leisure Centre pool have taken various guises with a survey finally acknowledging a need to replace the building with a sports hall and extra car parking.

The proposals for the new facilities, which will be open to the public at all times, already include a new 25 metre, six-lane pool with a 150-seat spectator gallery, learner pool, dance studio and fitness suite.

West Dorset District Council Community Enabling Manager Nick Thornley said: “Agreeing the details of the second phase of the overall project, to include the new sports hall, and finalising the lease details has resulted in a short delay. But we are looking forward to work starting very soon and giving West Dorset residents a fantastic leisure complex to enjoy.”

The original proposal for the second phase of work, which deals with the existing Thomas Hardye Leisure Centre buildings, was to convert the redundant pool hall into additional educational facilities and continue use of the existing sports hall.

Following a survey of the current building and discussions between the district council, county council and trustees and governors of Thomas Hardye School, proposals were put forward to replace the building.

The work will be phased so the school and public can continue to use the existing sports hall while work is completed.

The new sports hall is expected to be completed towards the end of 2012.

Headteacher of The Thomas Hardye School and Chairman of the Swimming Pool Project Board, Dr Iain Melvin said: “This has been a long-term project and it is indicative of the strength between the partners that we have found a solution that is so advantageous to the community and the school.  

“The levels of provision for leisure in Dorchester will be exceptional.”

The district council’s Executive Committeel received an update on the project at its meeting on Tuesday.

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