A steel signing ceremony has been held as construction of Newport's new leisure and wellbeing centre reaches its latest stage.
Representatives of Newport City Council, which is leading the project, Welsh Government, Wynne Construction and Newport Live, signed the final steel beam that will complete the metal framework of the building.
“It is really exciting to see the centre taking shape,” said Councillor Dimitri Batrouni, leader of Newport City Council.
“It will be a fantastic facility where residents of all ages and abilities can relax, have fun and keep fit.”
More than 55 per cent of the costs are being met by external funding including the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme and the UK government.
Cabinet Secretary for housing and local government, Jayne Bryant, said:
“It’s great to see this new leisure and wellbeing centre, built to the highest environmental and sustainability standards, progressing so well.
“That’s exactly what the Welsh Government Transforming Towns programme was set up for: to support community-driven and sustainable projects that help breathe new life in our town centres.”
The centre is being built on a brownfield site in the city centre, close to the River Usk, by Welsh firm Wynne Construction.
Chris Wynne, managing director of Wynne Construction, said:
“All the team have embraced the challenges of this unique site, working collaboratively to move the project forward safely and efficiently. We are very proud to be delivering a landmark facility that will support the health and wellbeing of Newport for generations to come.”
Kevin Ward, Newport Live chairman, said:
“Today marks a significant milestone for our city. This new centre represents our commitment to creating healthier, more active and connected communities, and it’s inspiring to see the vision becoming a reality. We’re proud to be a part of this fantastic net-zero facility, which will benefit residents for generations to come.”
The new centre is expected to be among the UK’s first net zero facility of its kind, powered entirely by electricity from renewable sources.
Play equipment for children, including slides, and a lazy river are planned for the leisure pool with swimming lessons and exercise sessions held in a separate learning pool.
It will have a café and relaxation area, fitness suite, modern changing facilities and a large active space for things like group activities and children’s parties.
Work is due to complete on the construction of the new building by the end of this year before its final “fit out”.
