Steelwork boosts Carlisle leisure options

Working on behalf of main contractor Wates, Border Steelwork Structures has erected 418t of steel for the redeveloped Sands Centre in Carlisle.

Said to be the region’s premier entertainment venue, the project consists of new sport and leisure facilities that will be linked to and share an entrance with the retained concert arena.

New facilities will include a 25m-long eight-lane pool; a learner pool with a moveable floor; a four-court sports hall with a spectator gallery; a 120-station fitness suite; two dance studios; a spinning studio; changing rooms; an NHS physiotherapy suite, and a reception desk with offices.

Leader of Carlisle City Council, Cllr John Mallinson, says: “The Sands Centre redevelopment is a major project that will provide significant benefits. It represents a cornerstone in our plans to support our communities to continue to improve their health and wellbeing. There is a necessity to do the work. Carlisle desperately needs new swimming facilities. This is a one-off opportunity with a dual benefit of all the facilities being on one site.”

Replacing old sports facilities, the new build consists of a steel-framed structure, stabilised by vertical bracings around the perimeter walls and horizontal roof bracings.

“Steel was the obvious choice for the project because of the long spans in the sports hall and pool area,” said Buro Happold Project Engineer Kathleen Higgins.

“Another benefit of using a steel-framed solution is the fact that we’ve been able to reuse some of the existing foundations for the new columns. An alternative framing solution would have increased the weight and consequently couldn’t have used the existing pads.”

The redeveloped Sands Centre is due to open in Summer 2022.