Hexam Swimming Pool

Designed by GLR Architects, the state of the art building houses the UK's first biomass heated swimming pool, with fuel coming from locally produced woodchips, as well as solar panels and various other environmentally aware design features. The main 25M six-lane competition-standard pool is flanked by two much smaller pools for use by adults with babies and toddlers.  There is also a separate "Studio" pool, 15M long, which has an adjustable floor like the competition pool, but also boasts the UK's first hydraulically adjustable pool steps and a higher water temperature for easier use by people with all levels of disability.  The building also houses an extensivley tiled changing village to cater not only for the swimmers and gym users, but also for the runners using the adjacent athletics track. The project has not been an easy one, however by working closely with the main contractors Sir Robert McAlpine and the designers GLR, we have produced a high quality finish to the complete satisfaction of the client and their partnership organisations.  Tynedale Council's Chief Executive Richard Robson was delighted with the quality of work and said "This is the kind of project that councils should be all about". Speaking about the eco friendly facility, Frances Rowe, Rural and Environment Manager at OneNorthEast said "The new Hexham Pool will be a great demonstration of how renewable energy can work in sport, leisure and the community"