Work to the £10.5million refurbishment project at Albert Avenue Pools has reached its halfway point with the project moving at a rapid pace.
Due for completion summer 2023, the work will see the construction of a new large gym and fitness studio, remodelling, refurbishment and redecoration of the existing building, replacement of all mechanical and electrical systems, alongside new heating and ventilation systems.
The scheme also includes the construction of a brand-new outdoor lido, replacing the original one which closed more than 30 years ago. This new heated lido specification will create an improved experience for users, as well as meeting international standards that will be able to accommodate top-level kayak polo and competitive swimming.
In the existing building, all high-level works to the large indoor pool have now completed and tiling is continuing at the small pool changing area. Walls that will form a new changing village for the large indoor pool and lido are completed and electrical work is now starting.
The scale of the new gym extension can now be seen as external cladding is added with space for large panoramic windows.
The reconstruction of the iconic lido continues, with the full base of the enormous outdoor swimming pool almost complete. The reinforced steel cages for the pool walls are now in place with concrete due to be poured in the next few weeks.
Contractors Esteem and Hobson and Porter invited Councillor Drake-Davies and Councillor Pritchard along for a tour of this major redevelopment project.
Councillor Paul Drake-Davis, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, said:
“It’s fantastic to see the amazing progress being made at Albert Avenue. The extended gym is a welcome addition with fitness studio meaning the centre will offer aerobic classes for the very first time.
“The new lido is now really taking shape and I’m really looking forward to seeing many families from across the city enjoying the only public outdoor swimming pool in the region/city in the summer.
“Albert Avenue Pools will have a whole new lease of life once it reopens and know residents of the city will make great use of the top spec facilities on offer.”
Contractors Hobson & Porter are delivering the works in partnership with Esteem.
Richard Hunter, Managing Director for Hobson and Porter said;
“We’ve reached a key milestone in the build now as the scale of both the new gym extension and the re-constructed lido can be fully appreciated.
“We always knew these were sizeable investments in the leisure complex at Albert Avenue Pools, but to be able to stand inside them and fully appreciate their scale is really exciting.”
Work will continue through the autumn and winter months as new filtration and heating systems are installed into larger plant room areas. The refurbishment of the main building will continue with tiling work completed through the pool areas.
Gavin Barley, General Manager for Hull Esteem added;
“Getting the green-light on such a multi-faceted project to transform Albert Avenue Pools was such a huge deal for all parties involved, and we’re delighted to see such great progress on site.
“The work to improve such an important leisure facility for the community is coming on brilliantly, and it will not only be a massive benefit to the local area once complete, but we’re sure it will become an attraction for those visiting our city.
It is hoped the building will reopen to customers summer 2023. Until then, leisure users can access facilities at Beverley Road, Woodford and Ennerdale Leisure Centres and Costello Stadium.