But campaigners say the consultation sessions are being offered at too short notice
RESIDENTS will get a chance to have their say on controversial plans for Pentwyn leisure centre next week when Cardiff council present them to the community.
The latest plans are for a 25-metre pool with an adaptable moving floor to change the depth of the pool, and to keep the slide from the old pool.
Alongside this, the changing rooms will receive a full refurbishment, and the sports hall, mini 3G pitch, gym, and studio will all be re-opened.
The council also aims to make the centre more environmentally-friendly with solar panels being installed on the roof and an air source heat pump being fitted to heat the pool.
Cardiff Rugby’s contract to train at the centre expires in May and they have decided not to renew it, instead improving facilities at Cardiff Arms Park.
Throughout their tenure, residents have been campaigning against the club’s use of their local hub, and last year a petition against their new 3G pitch on Parc Coed Y Nant received almost 4,000 signatures.
The pool has also been a controversial topic. Initially the council said they would replace the old much-loved pool with shallow access with a 20m by 8m pool. Ward councillor Joe Carter said: “It was a glorified paddling pool.”
The council then announced the pool would be 25m by 12m with a depth of 1.4m. Although this was comparable to other Better Cardiff leisure centres, residents were disappointed that it removed features that made the pool accessible for people with disabilities.
Some residents say they haven’t been given enough notice about the consultation, with it taking place during the first week of the Easter holidays.
Rhian Vernall, who set up the Save Pentwyn Leisure Centre group, said: “We have been chasing a date for weeks. We’ve been given less than one week’s notice and it’s during Easter when lots of people will be away.”
A council spokesperson, said: “These revised plans offer an affordable pathway towards doing what the council has always remained committed to doing – getting Pentwyn Leisure Centre, including a swimming pool re-opened.”
- The consultations will take place at Pentwyn leisure centre on March 26 and 27 from 10am to 6pm.
