NEWS

Both companies – plus the teams and individuals involved – have considerable expertise in leisure facilities, pools and lidos. Working in partnership with FoOL, FMG and Saunders Boston undertook market analysis examining the supply and demand for potential activities and facilities, developed concept designs (including indicative capital costs), and produced financial operating models for each concept design in order to deliver outline business plans.

At feasibility stage, the approach is indicative rather than definitive. However, the study provides a robust analysis and a blueprint for the site and its potential development. This shall be further refined as the project progresses when more information is available and in light of the results of stakeholder consultations.

​The study established a feasible and viable plan to sustain a heated pool – open seasonally for six months of the year – as the centrepiece of a year-round community, health and wellness hub.​ This represents our ‘full development’ scheme.

A ‘transitional phase’ – delivering the majority of the ‘dry’ facilities and retaining the ability to add the ‘wet’ facilities at a later date – was also developed as a contingency. Whilst this is not our preferred approach, it is a pragmatic solution which addresses some of the risks associated with projects of this type.

Both schemes include a welcoming, free to access community hub – comprising café, riverside terrace and WCs – to augment the existing riverside amenities and address current deficiencies thereby enhancing the experience for all users of the riverside.

We have listened to our stakeholders and incorporated the ideas and feedback received over a number of years into the concept designs. Therefore, we have been delighted to receive overwhelmingly positive feedback from key stakeholders.

In February 2025 we submitted our proposals for the site and outline business plans to Leeds City Council which owns the site. ​We are awaiting the Council's response and – subject to its continued support – shall continue to progress the project. This includes undertaking further stakeholder consultation including with our community. Please be assured we are listening and there shall be further opportunities for your input in the future!

Our website has been updated to reflect the recent study and you can read more about our proposals for the site, a summary of our business plan, etc. in the ‘Our Plans’ section.