TAKE a look at how Winchester’s new leisure centre is coming along.

These photos show the progress that has been made since work started at the Garrison Ground in March 2019.

According to the city council’s strategic director, its door are still due to swing open next Spring – but an exact date is yet to be decided.

Chas Bradfield told a sport forum meeting: “As you can see the progress made has been spectacular, but it wouldn’t be responsible to set an exact date right now – there are too many variables.”

Speaking on the initial £38million budget for the project, he added: “We are currently within, but there is still some work to be done, and Covid and its delays must be taken into account.

“These haven’t been nearly as bad as they could’ve been but there is no guarantee.”

At the same meeting Matt Dubber of construction contractors Willmott Dixon gave an update.

He detailed the energy saving techniques that the centre will feature.

“We have installed 849 square metres of photovoltaic panels which equates to a 140kw system,” he said. “This would translate to the PV system being able to power around 600 running machines or 1,000,000 kettles.

“It is designed such that energy produced will be consumed by the building but we can also feed back into the grid if there is excess power produced.

“The glass being installed within the building main reception is Okulux Evo, which have glass fibres inserted within the inter panes, the glass fibres help reduce solar heat gain and the subsequent cooling required in the building.”

When the centre opens it will be run by operators Everyone Active.

Representing the company, Alison Sutherland said that, alongside the River Park Leisure Centre staff that will be transferring, many more positions are still available.

She added: “We still need to hire additional life guards, gym coaches, trainers, physio therapists and more.

“Our launch plan is still being finalised and will be completely finished when know exactly what will be permitted when the centre opens.”

In recent months, the city council has constructed an access roundabout and crossing in Bar End Road.

It has also put new bus stops on Barfield Close, added cycle lanes near the centre and installed new street lighting along Domum Road.

Totems, fingerpost signs and traffic directional signs to direct people to the centre have all been ordered.

Willmott Dixon will give another update on the progress at the next Winchester City Council Sports Forum meeting.

Members of the public will be able to attend and ask questions.