Dear Member,
I wanted to take the opportunity to introduce myself and share an update on the improvements taking place at Strode, along with some exciting plans for the future.
Firstly, I'd like to thank all our customers for their patience and support during the pool closure. Since joining Strode, I've spent time meeting many of our users, listening to feedback and gaining a better understanding of what matters most to the local community. It's clear how important this facility is, and we're committed to making the improvements needed to secure its long-term future.
Pool Improvement Works
I'm pleased to report that good progress continues to be made on the pool improvement project, with contractors achieving several key milestones over the past week.
Work completed so far includes significant upgrades to the pool's circulation and filtration systems, including the capping of 97 pool inlets and the installation of new pipework. These improvements will help deliver better water circulation, improved filtration performance and enhanced water quality for the future. Subject to the successful completion of these remaining works, we are hopeful that the pool will be ready to begin refilling towards the end of next week.
Once the pool has been refilled, there are several important steps to complete before we can safely reopen. This includes bringing the water up to temperature, carrying out water quality testing and completing final safety checks to ensure everything is ready to welcome swimmers back. While we know everyone is eager to return to the pool, these essential checks help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience from day one. As this is a large pool, we anticipate this final commissioning process taking approximately 10-12 days.
However, we want to avoid committing to a reopening date until all testing and checks have been successfully completed.While we appreciate the closure has been disappointing, these works represent a significant investment in the future of swimming at Strode and will provide long-term benefits for all pool users.
The future of Strode Swimming & Fitness
Alongside the pool improvements, we've already made investments to improve accessibility at the centre, including the installation of a new pool hoist and poolside wheelchair. These additions will help ensure more people can enjoy the benefits of swimming and physical activity.
Whilst the upstairs fitness facilities remain available, the downstairs gym remains temporarily closed while further drying works are completed following previous water damage. Once this phase is complete, we will begin restoration and redecoration works to create a refreshed fitness environment for our customers.
Looking ahead, customers can expect to see continued investment in facilities, programmes and services across the centre. We're particularly excited about plans for our group exercise programme, which will receive a refresh in January, bringing more of the classes you love alongside some exciting new additions.
Positive Progress Across East Somerset
Across the wider East Somerset partnership, we've seen a number of encouraging developments since Freedom Leisure took over management of the centres.
Highlights include:
- Strong growth in our Learn to Swim programme, helping more children and adults gain confidence in the water.
- Increasing membership numbers across our centres.
- New health and wellbeing programmes supporting people of all ages and abilities.
- Continued support for talented local athletes through the FLAIR athlete scheme.
- Funded swimming opportunities delivered through partnership working with local organisations.
- Completion of condition surveys across the estate, helping identify priorities for future investment alongside Somerset Council.
There is still work to do, but I'm incredibly positive about the future of Strode Swimming & Fitness and the opportunities ahead. We remain committed to improving facilities, developing programmes and creating an even better experience for everyone who uses the centre.
Thank you again for your continued support. We will keep you updated via our website, app and social channels and we look forward to welcoming swimmers back to the pool as soon as possible.
Ben Crookes
General Manager
Strode Swimming & Fitness - Freedom Leisure