New pool on its way for Norfolk town after £11m scheme approved
A new swimming pool is on its way in a Norfolk town after councillors agreed plans for the £11m project.
Fakenham's sports and fitness centre in Trap Lane expansion will now progress after North Norfolk District Council's development committee unanimously approved the scheme.
As well as a 25m pool, other elements of the project include refurbished exercise studios, a 55-station fitness suite and new changing areas.
What the new pool could look like (Image: Saunders Boston Architects)
It is made possible thanks to government funding, confirmed last year by Labour, having been first proposed by the former Conservative administration.
The approval of the plans will mean people living in Fakenham will again be able to swim in the town after the previous pool closed in 2014.
At a meeting this week, Christopher Cushing, a Fakenham Conservative councillor, said: "News that Fakenham will get a new pool has been received enthusiastically by the majority of the town.
"It is the best form of exercise."
READ MORE: Flagship swimming pool project pushes up council tax
Design plans have been revealed for Fakenham's swimming pool and 3G pitch (Image: Saunders Boston Architects)
During the debate, councillor Angie Fitch-Tillett, also praised the project, highlighting that Norfolk had some of the highest rates of drownings last year in the country.
She said: "We have more water than anywhere else. It is absolutely vital that people learn to swim."
The eco-friendly elements of the project were also praised by councillor Adam Varley.
"It is fantastic to see what we are doing with our future estates," he said.
While there has been a huge amount of support for the pool, Fakenham's town brass band has previously complained about the project.
What the new fitness suite could look like (Image: Saunders Boston Architects)
The pavilion, where the band used to rehearse, will be demolished to make way for the project, which upset some members.
Sports England also raised concerns that a cricket pitch will be lost through the development.
But ultimately, councillors voted unanimously for the plans to go ahead.
A 3G pitch will also be developed and will be able to offer an all-weather outdoor sports facility but this is subject to a separate application.
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