The Planning Application is in. The reference number to view and comment on this application is 21/01153/APPM.

I hope as many of you as possible will make use of this Application to give your views on the project.

The original proposal was for an Olympic sized pool with diving facilities and state of the art fitness suite and studios, complete with a multi-purpose hall. This was an upgrade on the existing Citadel. Cost - £35m.

Now, what are we getting – a similar size pool to the Citadel. Diving facilities, squash courts and multi-purpose hall are all off the plan. Cost - £45m and climbing. For an inferior facility.

Be aware that some potential high costs are not included in the budget, viz. sinking deep pilings to ‘take the weight’ of the pool; removal of asbestos in Hourstons; buttress supporting of Hourstons façade amongst other items. The final cost is in fairy tale land – nobody knows.

Please keep the pressure on SAC – they are not making any sense with this project.

Many thanks and Merry Christmas.