Swimming Pool Upgrades Coming to St Austell and Liskeard – Here’s What You Need to Know

Exciting upgrades are set to transform the swimming pools at Better leisure centres in St Austell and Liskeard this autumn, with significant work beginning soon.

Liskeard Pool Refurbishment

From 4th November to 27th January, Liskeard’s pool will undergo a £400,000 refurbishment. The upgrades will include fully relining the pool tank and surrounding areas with resin, helping to safeguard the stainless steel structure. Additionally, the wet side changing rooms will be completely redone.

The pool is scheduled to reopen on 2nd January, with changing rooms expected to be completed by 27th January. During this period, customers are encouraged to come “pool ready,” similar to the Covid-19 pandemic measures, or make use of the gym and studio changing rooms.

St Austell Pool Upgrades

St Austell’s swimming pool will close from 18th November to 2nd January for a £74,000 refurbishment. The work will involve relining the pool, reintroducing splash features, and improving the pool’s surroundings. These upgrades coincide with the centre’s fiftieth birthday, which will be celebrated on 30th November.

Temporary Closures and Member Options

While the pools are closed, Better members have options to either use alternative Better facilities or freeze their memberships until the pools reopen. GLL, the not-for-profit social enterprise that operates nine Cornish leisure centres under the Better brand, is handling the upgrades on behalf of Cornwall Council.

Wider Investments Across Cornwall

In addition to these pool refurbishments, a further £559,000 is being invested to upgrade key fitness equipment in eight other Better centres across Cornwall. Functional fitness areas will also be introduced at leisure centres in Saltash, St Ives, and Bodmin.

James Curry, GLL’s Head of Service in Cornwall, explained the importance of these projects, noting that Liskeard’s pool has not seen improvement work in 20 years, and the St Austell centre, as a busy venue, was in need of major refurbishment.

“These are very exciting projects and, whilst some disruption will necessarily be caused over the next few months, they’ll make a considerable difference,” said James.

For more details on the upgrades and temporary arrangements, visit the Better website.