Member Article

Planning permission granted for new Durham pool

Planning permission for a new city pool has been unanimously granted by councillors. A special meeting of the City of Durham’s Development Control Committee agreed the plans for the new 25m pool in Durham, which will replace the old swimming baths in the Old Elvet district. Measures to make the new building carbon neutral are also being considered. This includes ensuring that the electricity is provided by a green energy supplier who is committed to renewable energy.Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr Grenville Holland said: “Some views were expressed about the new pool not being a carbon neutral building - that is a great aspiration and certainly we are striving for a highly energy efficient building. “Our appointed NME Engineers, Max Fordham are world leaders in sustainable developments and built the first carbon neutral office in Europe. Carbon neutral has not been achieved any where in this country as yet. Our approach in using the experience of Max Fordham has involved considering every possible option for heating, lighting and ventilation knowing that this kind of facility is by its very nature a high energy user. “I am confident that we will have a facility that the people of Durham will enjoy and be proud of.” It is anticipated that work on site may start in 3 or 4 months.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .