FARNHAM Sports Centre looks set to benefit from new and improved facilities under a £1.8 million "major refurbishment" as Waverley prepares to roll out its new sport and leisure facility strategy. The money, which will help to revamp the 25- year -old centre and replace many of the original fittings and machinery, has been welcomed by general manager Andy Webb. "We've got a wish list and we know we can't do everything we want but we're focusing on what we really need," he said. "The centre was 25 years old this September and most of the plant and machinery is original with a life expectancy of 20 - 25 years." He highlighted the fact that alterations to the building's interior were very much "must do" things and mentioned that a lot of the money will be going towards the air recovery system, energy efficiency and new boilers. Despite these "essentials," the centre will be receiving plenty of work to things visible to visitors, including a total refurbishment of the pool area, changing rooms and reception area. The squash courts and main hall will also be worked on and new flooring will be going down throughout the building. "Nothing is absolutely confirmed yet, but we aim to have the reception area, changing rooms and the activities areas done over the next three to six months. After that, it's the major revamp of the swimming pool and the other larger jobs." Mr Webb also hinted at the possibility of installing a state-of-the-art ultra-violet water-treatment system in the swimming pool but that work will take until May 2008 to complete. "We're very grateful for the funding and we look forward to working hand in hand with Waverley to make sure we have a smooth development." Byron Grainger-Jones, portfolio holder for leisure, said: "This long-term approach will see Waverley investing in facilities that will meet the sporting needs of the community as never before. In developing the draft strategy, Waverley created a vision for leisure as well as undertaking thorough consultations - focus groups and consultations were held with users, non-users, young people, older people, families and hard to reach groups. "The options that are being considered will reflect what residents want from their leisure facilities, and are intended to be deliverable within the strategy's time period and provide good value for money."
