Kick off for leisure centre works

Date:  13 March 2007

Work has now begun on the multi-million pound refurbishment of Three Rivers District Council's major leisure facility. William Penn Leisure Centre in Rickmansworth will be transformed by the addition of a learner pool, exercise studios, an expanded fitness area and new equipment.

The new building will have greater capacity, improved access for people with disabilities and will use solar thermal panels to pre-heat pool water, so reducing carbon emissions.

Councillor Chris Whately-Smith, Three Rivers District Council Portfolio Holder for Leisure & Community, said:

"We are committed to building a healthy community, and William Penn Leisure Centre is already a very successful and popular facility. By making this major investment we can give it a new lease of life, and ensure that even more people of all ages will be able to enjoy it for many years to come.

We are particularly delighted that the new William Penn Leisure Centre will be making imaginative use of green energy technology."

Although the existing swimming pool will be closed during the refurbishment, all other parts of the building, including the fitness suite, sports hall and squash courts are remaining open.

The main contractors for the refurbishment are Gee Construction Ltd, who have recently begun a year-long construction programme which is due for completion in early 2008. The architects for the scheme are Atkins Designs Solutions.

William Penn Leisure Centre is managed by Hertsmere Leisure on behalf of Three Rivers District Council. For more information about the facilities on offer residents can call 01923 771050 or visit www.williampennleisure.co.uk.