The project will see a new roof installed in the swimming pool and vital mechanical and electrical works take place behind the scenes. Several other areas of the centre will also receive a refreshed finish and the facilities are being made more accessible so all ages and abilities can keep fit and active.
While the majority of the centre – including the 90-station gym, group exercise studio, activity hall and squash court – have remained open throughout the duration of the work, the swimming pool and changing rooms closed earlier this year to allow the transformation to happen.
"he repair of the pool roof structure has been more difficult than anticipated due to the age and condition of the building and the need to use specialised materials.
Unfortunately, it was only possible to discover these issues once the roof was opened during construction and we were able to fully assess the roof area" said a spokesperson.
"This has resulted in an unavoidable extension to the construction period for the roof replacement which means moving the reopening from December to March. The increased construction costs resulting from the additional works are forecast to be contained within the project contingency budget. "
Jill Whitehead, Chair of the Environment and Neighbourhoods Committee said:
“The new swimming pool roof and leisure facilities will be a significant improvement on what was there. The investment we are making will enhance the local area and comes at a time when many councils are cutting back on facilities.
“The project is a significant undertaking and not without its challenges. The need for extra work on the swimming pool roof could not have been foreseen. The delay to opening is unfortunate but will be worth it in the end. Everyone who uses the centre and neighbours have been very understanding and we thank them for their patience whilst the works are taking place.”
Everyone Active General Manager, Jodie Morris, said:
“We would like to apologise for the delay and to anyone who would have liked to use the swimming facilities during this time however this is not uncommon when working on older buildings such as Cheam Leisure Centre, which has been at the heart of the local community since 1935.
“We expect to be able to reopen the pool and changing rooms on 30 March 2015. Once completed the investment will greatly enhance the quality of leisure facilities for the local community and provide a fresher, more pleasant environment for customers to enjoy.”