Reading's newest leisure centre, Rivermead, is set to open to the public, following the completion of major upgrade and improvement works.

Part of Reading Borough Council's £40 million ongoing investment in the region's leisure facilities, the new building includes a 120-station gym with 3 studios, a 6-court sports hall with 250 spectator seats, new toilets and changing facilities as well as a new soft play area and cafe. The site will open to the public on 17 July.

The dry-side aspects of the new centre will be followed by the opening of two new swimming pools - a 25m 8 lane competition pool and a teaching & diving pool, both with moveable floors as well as over 300 spectator seats. The pool facilities are expected to be ready for public use in the summer of 2024.

The new facilities have been developed to BREEAM Excellent standards, with the use of renewables where possible, as well as putting in place measures to reduce carbon emissions and improve environmental efficiency.

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These measures include the installation of two new air source heat pumps which will reduce the carbon emission rate of the centre's heating system by an estimated 75%. 770 solar panels were also included in the building's design.

Once the new centre opens, work will begin to dismantle the old structure to make way for a new car park and children’s play area. The site will be managed by GLL who run Reading's leisure centres on behalf of the council.

Commenting on the project, Adele Barnett-Ward, Reading Borough Council's Lead Councillor for Leisure and Culture, said: "We can't wait to get the doors open and welcome residents to the new Rivermead Leisure Centre. The centre represents a significant investment in Reading and provides leisure facilities that are fit for the future.

"The centre has been built to BREEAM Excellent environmental standards and is designed to create an inclusive fitness environment so everyone in our community can join in and experience the benefits of physical activity.

"From 17 July, Reading's community can enjoy a fantastic new sports hall and a 120-station gym with studios, as well as a fabulous soft play and café families will love.

"We are also looking forward to the new swimming pools opening next summer, which will be yet another opportunity to celebrate."

www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/reading/rivermead-leisure-centre