Work begins on Hyde Leisure Pool extension

Work has begun on building a £4 million extension to Hyde Leisure Pool after a contract was signed with the constructors.

The project will create a new 25 metre, six-lane swimming pool, changing rooms and spectator seating, with disabled access, at the site off Walker Lane. Landscaping around the new pool will also be improved.

It will link to and enhance the existing leisure facilities, which will remain open throughout the works, scheduled to be completed next February. As well as the fun-filled leisure pool, the facility already has a fitness suite, spa and café.

Following a competitive procurement process, a contract has been awarded to construction company HH Smith & Sons, who have already started work.

The project is part of Tameside Council’s £20 million investment into leisure resources to provide some of the best facilities in Greater Manchester that offer varied and fun ways for the whole family to be active.

Outside Hyde Leisure Pool are, from left, Councillors Shibley Alam, Philip Fitzpatrick, Oliver Ryan, Executive Leader Councillor Brenda Warrington and Jim Fitzpatrick.

It follows the opening of the £15 million Tameside Wellness Centre in Denton, which includes an eight-lane, 25metre, competition swimming pool with room for 150 spectators and a learner pool; a spa area including sauna, steam and relaxation facilities; a fitness suite; and a ten-pin bowling alley.

Tameside Council Executive Leader, Councillor Brenda Warrington, said: "It’s been a challenging journey to get to this stage, with previous contractors having not continued with the project, but I’m delighted that this contract has been agreed and that work has already started.

"This new pool will be a fantastic addition to the existing facilities at Hyde Leisure Pool and will help to achieve our commitment of providing some of the best leisure resources in Greater Manchester to support residents in keeping healthy and active."

HH Smith & Sons, which is a family-run company, has worked on projects including Ashton Old Baths, Gorton Monastery, The Met Theatre in Bury and Manchester’s Museum of Science and Industry. Pozzani Architects have created the designs.

Main image:

Tameside Council Executive Leader Councillor Brenda Warrington, Executive Member for Finance and Economic Growth Councillor Oliver Ryan and Chief Executive Steven Pleasant join Hyde councillors in meeting HH Smith staff at the site of the Hyde Leisure Pool extension.