Plans to reopen Purley Pool have taken a huge step forward. Reopening the pool is a key pledge from the Mayor following its closure by the previous administration in March 2020.
Mayor Perry is in discussions with the developer Polaska, who is the long-term leaseholder of the site, on an exciting wholesale regeneration of the area which will includes a new leisure centre, with a six-lane pool, training pool, gym, studio, café, and car park, an enhanced public square and pleasant route from the High Street to Purley station and a later-living housing development.
The surrounding area will be revamped, including the former supermarket, and the overall aim (as well as opening the pool) is to increase footfall to the town and boost the local economy.
What’s more, the aim is for the construction of the pool to be fully funded through the development and the council will run and operate the new facility.
Polaska is hosting public exhibitions this week at Christ Church. I attended yesterday’s session which is why I’m so positive and excited about what it can bring to the Purley and Kenley area – and as a swimmer, I am delighted to have a new pool right on my doorstep.
If planning permission is granted, work is due to start on the site in the autumn of 2024 with the pool opening in the first part of 2026.
There is another exhibition taking place tomorrow (23rd June) from 4-7 and there will also be a stall at the Purley Fete on 24th June from 12pm to 4pm. For more information about the proposals and plans, see the consultation website https://purleypool.co.uk/
Do take a look at the proposals and have your say.
