FOR the first time since it has been under construction, a first look into new leisure facilities has been granted.
The £27 million Sands Centre redevelopment has reached another significant milestone and is set to be completed in October 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.
Work is now underway to complete the main pool structure, fit the pool equipment, and install the finishes and equipment.
Wates Construction is undertaking the works on behalf of Carlisle City Council.
John Currie, Operational Director for Wates, said despite the many challenges such as building near a river, flood protection, and wroking through storms and a pandemic, it's all part of the job.
"It's been built on different levels, with flood defences in place accordingly."
He added: "It's all about integrating it into the design.
"The design team has been brilliant in getting it structurally and aesthetically ahead of the game.
"It's been complicated, but we know that and we know what we're doing, so we programme and plan it accordingly.
"The real flood defence comes right at the river and there's been a lot of effort from the Council to make that work."
Leader of Carlisle City Council, Cllr John Mallinson, said: “The Sands Centre redevelopment represents a cornerstone in our plans to support our communities to continue to improve their health and wellbeing.
"This is a one-off opportunity with a dual benefit of all the facilities being on one site."
A topping-off ceremony took place, where the first tile was put on.
The new Sands Centre building will be set across two storeys and accessed by an internal street.
The new build extension will add 40,000sqft to the existing building, with the redeveloped centre offering a 25m main pool and a 20m learner pool complete with a 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.
The project will also consolidate the existing arrangements with the North Cumbria University Hospitals Trust Musculoskeletal (MSK) team.
The improved facilities will include a range of sustainable features which will support
The existing Pools provision on James Street will remain in place until all construction at The Sands Centre has been completed.
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