Plans for Purley Pool have reached a significant milestone as developer, Polaska, prepares to submit plans for the regeneration of Purley High Street including a new six-lane swimming pool, training pool and gym.
When elected in May 2022, Executive Mayor Jason Perry pledged to reopen Purley Pool following its closure by the previous administration in March 2020.
The Mayor has listened to calls from residents to have a pool back in the heart of the Purley community and has been in discussions with developer Polaska, who have been the long term leaseholders of this site for some time. Polaska is now bringing forward proposals for a pool, a later living housing development and new public space and shops to regenerate the high street.
The leisure centre would include a six-lane main pool, smaller training pool for swimming lessons, fitness studio and gym, as well as a soft play area for children and a café.
The early-stage designs – which will be unveiled at a public exhibition being held by Polaska on 20 and 23 June – also include a revamp of the surroundings, including the closed former supermarket building. Proposals for a new public square, an improved walkway to Purley railway station and high street shops to increase footfall to the town and boost the local economy are also included.
The aim is for the construction of the pool to be fully funded through the development and the council will run and operate the new facility. Residents will be consulted on the designs ahead of a planning application being submitted to the Council for consideration.
“Residents have been asking for the return of their much-loved pool and I have listened to them and have been working hard to bring a pool back to Purley.
“It is now clear that re-opening the former pool would not be sustainable due to the extensive disrepair allowed by the previous Administration. So we have been looking at different options. These are exciting proposals for modern leisure facilities, housing and a new public square in the heart of Purley town centre, which will help to revive the high street for everyone locally to enjoy.
“We are still at the early stages, but we will be working closely with Polaska to ensure that any new development is right for the local area and brings benefits to residents, businesses and the wider community.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
Russell Pedley, Director and Co-Founder of Assael Architecture, said: “I am delighted to be the lead architect bringing forward the plans which will deliver a new pool to Purley. Having learnt to swim at Purley Pool, I know first-hand how important this facility is to the area, and how essential it is that we work with the community to refine our plans for new homes, commercial and public space that will unlock the delivery of a new leisure facility.
“Our public exhibitions mark the start of a programme of consultation events, which will be taking place across the coming months. What matters to you, matters to us and we encourage you to visit us in person or view our material online to give your thoughts and feedback.”
Polaska is hosting public exhibitions on Tuesday 20 June, from 5-8pm, and Friday 23 June, from 4-7pm, at Christ Church in Purley. There will also be a stall at Purley Fete on Saturday 24 June, from 12pm to 4pm. For more information see the consultation website.
