Funds approved for Fakenham to built its swimming pool

Fakenham, which has not had a pool since 2014 after the facility at Fakenham Academy closed, has been given the go-ahead for a new £11m project.

This involves an extension to the Trap Lane recreation ground and includes a 25 metre pool and new outdoor sports facilities.

The Conservative government said it would contribute £9.9m to the project during its autumn budget in 2023 after a long campaign for a new site in Fakenham.

North Norfolk District Council said the government has confirmed it will be fulfilling its predecessor's pledge towards building a swimming pool (Image: Everyone Active) However, the project's final sign-off was put on hold until after the election.

Plans were then thrown into doubt when the new Labour government launched a review of the previous administration's pledge and North Norfolk District Council said it would not be continuing with the project until it had the funds to do so.

But following last week's budget, NNDC said the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government had given it the green light to proceed.

Tim Adams, the council leader, said he was "very pleased" to receive the confirmation of the Levelling Up funding for the leisure centre.

Christopher Cushing, district councillor for Fakenham Lancaster North Ward, said the project would deliver "huge health benefits" for the town.

Christopher Cushing said the facility is desperately needed for the town (Image: North Norfolk District Council) "I'm delighted that the funding for the new swimming pool has been confirmed," he added.

"The last government recognised the desperate need we have for a pool as we are the only major town in Norfolk without easy access to one.

"As a young boy I learned to swim in one of pools in the town that has since closed."

Angela Glynn said she was "delighted" by the announcement (Image: Angela Glynn) Angela Glynn, chairman of the Fakenham Town Council, said: "We were surprised and delighted to hear that funding for the project had been granted given the uncertainties around funding since the election.

"Along with the multi-use games area, it will bring superb sporting facilities to our town for many years to come."