Sands Centre pool viewing area undergoing 'final completion'

The £27 million redevelopment opened its doors to the public on Monday, November 14 before the official opening last week with British cycling legend and chair of Sport England, Chris Boardman in attendance.

The construction for the leisure centre has yet to be finished however, with extra work needed in the pools viewing area before it can open to the public.

Although the majority of the Pools viewing area is completed, additional balustrades are set to be installed.

This will not impact of the overall viewing area which will remain as it has already been constructed but there are additional features to be added.

Some users have also complained about the lack of cycle racks, but Carlisle City Council say there are existing cycle parking facilities at the rear of The Sands and additional cycle racks are being installed near the front entrance.

A spokesperson for Carlisle City Council said: “Final works are taking place at the Sands Centre redevelopment with the majority completed or nearing completion.

“The majority of the facilities - the new Pools, gym and exercise studios were ready to use when the building reopened earlier this month.

“Some areas of the site are still undergoing final completion - the new downstairs restaurant area, the Pools viewing area and the installation of additional cycle racks.

“Subject to final works being completed, the viewing area should be open within a few weeks. In the meantime, the new café areas (ground floor and first floor) - which look on to the Pools - are available to use.

“All outstanding works form part of the overall budget.”

Membership of the brand-new facilities, which include two pools, a four-court sports hall with a spectator gallery, a state-of-the-art gym, a spinning studio and dance studios, costs £36 per month, with cheaper off-peak and concession rates also available.

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