Local sports centre reaches crucial stage of development

3 November, 2009

Kentish Town’s sports centre build programme has entered a key stage of its refurbishment (14 October 2009).

Toasted with a topping out ceremony, which marks the building having reached its highest point prior to completion, guests included the Mayor of Camden and local councillors. They gathered to celebrate the design and build contract which will provide local residents with a refurbished 6,000 m² sports facility.

The event was hosted by Wates Construction, the building contractors carrying out the refurbishment on behalf of Camden Council. The authority is investing around ₤25 million in this project for residents.

The development involves the complete refurbishment of the Grade 2 listed, Victorian building – with particular focus on the retention and restoration of the magnificent, terracotta façade and other historical features.

The refurbishment also includes the replacement of the old Grafton pool and learner pool with two new pool tanks, and a major renovation of the Willes Pool, which was part of the existing development.

A number of local jobs have also been created on the back of the project, with all trade involvement being procured from in and around Camden. This is of particular importance to both Camden Council and to Wates Construction, who are committed to supporting the prosperity of the local community.

Councillor Flick Rea, Executive Member for Culture, Camden Council, said: ″We’ve made a significant investment in renovating this popular sports centre. This demonstrates our commitment to making sports and physical activity more accessible for residents. I’m also delighted the project remains within budget
and on schedule for an opening in the summer holidays next year.″

Andy Wall, Wates Construction’s Managing Director for London and the South East, said: “I am delighted that we have reached such a significant stage of the build programme for the Kentish Town Sports Centre. This new facility will have a positive impact on the Camden area – not just by restoring the original building back to its former splendour with greatly enhanced facilities, but by giving back the local
residents something that has been dear to their hearts and their families for generations. My team and I look forward to seeing it through to a successful completion.”

The project went to site on the 5th January 2009 and is due to open in the Autumn of 2010.

Categories: refurbishment, local authority frameworks, culture and heritage, events, london & south east

Tags: Camden, London, Wates Construction