The Manchester Aquatic centre will be reopened after a multi-million pound refit next week. Doors will open to the public on June 26, and marks the completion of the first phase of the centre’s refurbishment plan.
The reopening comes just in time for the World Para Swimming Championships, which will be taking place in late July. The centre has been closed to the public and operating at a reduced capacity since 2021.
It was purpose built for the 2002 Commonwealth Games at a cost of £32 million, and was opened by the Queen in 2000, boasting two 50m pools and 25m diving pool. It has been used for events like the Paralympic World Cup and as a training facility for the 2012 Olympics.
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The phase one refurbishment has included an upgrade to all pool areas, the building of three new gym facilities, fitness class studios, a health suite and a new cafe. There are also new accessible changing facilities as well as a new green energy heating system, with over 1000 solar panels installed on the building’s roof.
Councillor John Hacking, Manchester City Council’s Executive Member for Skills, Employment and Leisure, said: “The reopening of the Manchester Aquatics Centre is a momentous occasion for the city and it's wonderful to welcome people back to the newly renovated facility, one of the leading aquatics venues in the UK.
“The return of the aquatics centre is a key strategic goal for the council, we want to ensure that our communities have access to state-of-the-art facilities in Manchester and, make sure that we’re looking after the wellbeing, both physical and mental, of our residents.
“Thanks to the council’s large investment, the aquatics centre is now better equipped to suit the needs of our residents, who can now benefit from a wide range of brilliant sports equipment, aquatic upgrades, spa facilities and changing space - I would encourage anyone to go down to test out the new facilities.”
Andy King, CEO of Manchester Active, added: “The centre is a key player in contributing to Manchester’s reputation as an international city of sport and remains one of the most important legacy outcomes of the 2002 Commonwealth Games in the success of GB Para Swimming.
“Not only will we welcome back a thriving events programme with national/international reach and significant economic value to Manchester, but also over 700 school children each week via Manchester school Swimming Programme and over 900 people on public learn 2 swim programmes, plus up to 14,000 health and fitness members and over 70,000 students from both Manchester universities.”
Phase two of the refurbishment will begin in September, and will include an overhaul of the facility’s basement area.
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