Pool proposal is on schedule, says council

From the archive, first published Tuesday 8th Apr 2003.

Plans to build a swimming pool in Barton, Oxford, are on schedule.

The Sports Lottery Board has already approved a stage one application from the council for a £1.6m grant to build the £2.8m pool in the grounds of Bayswater Middle School in Bayswater Road.

Members of the executive board yesterday agreed to spend an initial £75,000 to prepare stage two of the application.

As a precaution, strategic director Mark Bowler warned councillors that there was no guarantee that the stage two application -- which includes details of contractors, design and construction -- would be accepted. He said rejection of the application could leave the council facing costs of £200,000.

But Peter Johnson, executive member for leisure, said: "We're following proper project discipline. We've recognised the risks and are managing them."

The city council is committing £1m towards the 25m pool development, which will also have a fitness room, dance studio and reception area.

A decision from the Lottery board is expected in July.

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