Plans to revamp a swimming pool into a £18.8 million leisure centre have been submitted by the council.

St Albans City and District Council wants to transform Harpenden Swimming Pool into a leisure centre for various sports, as well as the sports centre into a modern arts and cultural centre.

This will include a larger learner pool which is three times the size of the current one, along with a balcony in the arts and cultural centre with up to 511 seats.

There will also be a multi-purpose room, a cultural and heritage exhibition space, and bars on two floors including a café overlooking Rothamsted Park.

Cllr Annie Brewster, who is responsible for Sports, Leisure and Heritage, said: “These proposed new leisure, arts and cultural facilities will serve Harpenden, Redbourn, Wheathampstead and the surrounding area for generations to come.

“So, great care has been taken in developing the current plans for these amazing modern facilities.”

St Albans & Harpenden Review:

An artist's impression of the development.   

The plans have been influenced by a consultation with residents, sports clubs, arts and cultural societies, gym users and councillors.

Cllr Julian Daly, who represents Commercial and Development, added: “The redevelopment of leisure, arts and cultural facilities in Harpenden is part of an ongoing strategy to upgrade facilities across the district.”

The cost of development is expected to be met from increased revenue generated from the new facility.

Find out more here: www.stalbans.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/facility_ developments/default.aspx