A planning application for Spalding’s new swimming pool and leisure centre has been submitted.
The £26m project has been validated and will be assessed by planning officers at South Holland District Council.
Work should get under way in the winter with the main building of the Health and Wellbeing Hub open for the summer of 2026.
A second phase, including an extra care housing scheme on the site of the current pool, will be submitted in the next few weeks.
The first phase includes a two-pool swimming facility, outdoor splash pad, sports hall, gym, fitness studios, wellbeing spaces, cafe and play zones.
A 3G artificial football pitch and separate multi-use games area are also included in the major project.
The district council says 5,000 residents responded to its consultation leading to some changes from proposals.
The authority says this includes additional, accessible toilet provision on the first floor, amendments to site security out of hours, changes to the spectator seating layout at the swimming pool and the inclusion of a raised end in the pool for competition starts.
However the new facility is set to not have a sauna, something it currently does obtain.
A district council spokesman said: “Unfortunately, within the budget available for the project, not all suggestions could be added to the plans.
“Due to the extremely high installation, operation and maintenance costs the project is not expected to be able to incorporate sauna or steam room facilities, instead prioritising a wider range of sport, wellbeing and physical activity opportunities.
“Purpose-built balcony or tiered spectator seating for the swimming pool is also not possible within the current plans, but approximately 250 permanent and temporary seats will be available around the main pool for competitions, whilst still ensuring that the facilities cater for the wider community and daily users.”
Councillor Gary Taylor, the council’s project sponsor, said: “I am really pleased that we are able to take another significant step towards making this incredible project a reality, and creating brand new facilities that will cater for our whole community for many years to come.
“Thank you to everyone who took the time to be part of the consultation process or who has helped to shape the designs so far. Feedback from those who will visit, enjoy and live near the site is invaluable in making sure we can create a truly transformative and well-used Hub for South Holland’s residents.”
The submitted plans can be viewed and commented on by visiting www.sholland.gov.uk/FindandComment and searching the planning reference number H16-0462-24.
