The first stage of building work is set to begin on Cambridge-based Saunders Boston Architects’ design of a £10.7 million state-of-the-art leisure centre in Sheringham, Norfolk – which will replace the existing ‘Splash’ facility.
The project, which has now been granted planning permission, will include a six-lane, 25-metre pool; a 13-metre learner pool with a moving floor to cater for different activities and user groups; a fitness suite; community spaces; multi-purpose studios; a spin studio; and a café.
Nathan Swift, Director at Saunders Boston Architects, said: “We are celebrating the news that planning permission for this exciting project has been granted and the local community will soon be able to benefit from an improved, accessible facility. Our design was developed around community aspirations with the aim of providing excellent sports facilities to all members of the local community.”
The contemporary new design pay homage to the character of the existing Splash facility through the use of a barrel-vaulted roof, whilst also creating its own identity deriving its concept from the ‘longshore drift’ of the North Norfolk cost line. The design incorporates a combination of; water saving measures, air source heat pumps and solar hot water making the building more sustainable, both environmentally and economically.
The project supports North Norfolk District Council’s commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of its residents. Working with Sport England, the Council is seeking to increase participation in sport and fitness activities and contribute to increased social and leisure activity in the community. Recognising the community benefits of the centre, Sport England has invited the Council to submit an application to Sport England’s Strategic Facilities Fund for financial support towards the project.
Robert Young, Head of Economic & Community Development at North Norfolk District Council, said:
“Saunders Boston’s contribution to our project has been fantastic. The role of architect and lead designer is one thing but SBA went way beyond that in their endeavours to ensure the design met our brief but also the requirements of our key funding partner Sport England.”