All systems go for February opening at Meridian Leisure Centre

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THE much anticipated Meridian Leisure Centre in Louth could be open in early February, East Lindsey District Council has said.

The project was delayed after contractor, UCS Civil, which was overseeing the build, fell into financial difficulty but the Council quickly appointed a new contractor, Gelder Group, to finish the project without too much of a delay.

Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Councillor Adam Grist, explained: 'I'm pleased we've been able to continue apace with the work on the Meridian Leisure Centre. My thanks go to the local people looking forward to using the Leisure Centre for their patience and also to those staff and contractors who have worked hard to keep the delay to a minimum. In January we will be in a position to announce the firm opening date. Once the Leisure Centre opens, it will provide local people and families with high quality facilities that can, and I'm sure will, make a real and positive difference to their lives.'

As planned, the current Louth Swimming Pool and Fitness Suite on the Riverhead will close on Friday, January 8, 2010, to allow the staff to be trained ready for their move over the Meridian Leisure Centre.

As the current Pool is held under Charitable Trust Status, the Council is encouraging local organisations with the same charitable objectives to contact them if they think they could be entitled to some of the proceeds from the site, if it is to be sold. For more information on the objectives or for an application form, visit www.e-lindsey.gov.uk or contact Mark Humphreys, Business Manager for Leisure Facilities on 01507 601111.

The 12m Meridian Leisure Centre will boast a 25m eight lane pool with moveable floor; fitness Suite with sauna and steam room; Child Care Area with outdoor and indoor play areas; a leisure pool with flume and other features; a Sports Hall and Multi Purpose Room; Dance Studios; an IT Suite and Exhibition Space; a Cafe and social area; plus Outdoor changing rooms and Car Park and cycle bays.