Plans approved to bulldoze pool at Temple Park leisure centre in South Shields

Planning chiefs have given the green light to demolish the closed swimming pool at Temple Park leisure centre.
Temple Park Leisure Centre.Temple Park Leisure Centre.
Temple Park Leisure Centre.

Council chiefs revealed in June that plans had been submitted to demolish the closed pool section of the complex in South Shields.

Now officers on South Tyneside Council’s planning department have officially granted consent for the building to be razed.

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The application stated: “Demolition of Temple Park Leisure Centre’s swimming pool including associated changing village and footbridge.

“Plus the construction of a new two storey gable wall to the south elevation, together with minor remedial works to the east elevation of the Gymnastics’ Centre and associated external works.”

The popular attraction, which was opened in the 1970s, was one of the first to have a wave machine in the region which was enjoyed by scores of youngsters.

However, the pool was closed in October 2013 where residents were given the chance to have a farewell swim for just £1.

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It’s replacement was the £16m Haven Point pool and leisure complex in Pier Pavilion, South Shields, which was opened later that same month.

The demolition work is due to start this winter - but the John Reid Road leisure centre will be open for business as usual.

Once the pool section is gone the land will be landscaped to fit in with the surrounding area.

A spokesman for the council said: “We plan to demolish the disused pool section of Temple Park leisure centre and landscape the area.

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“However, this decision does not affect the rest of Temple Park Centre which will remain open with minimum disruption to users.

This means there will be more green space added to Temple Memorial Park which was gifted to the people of South Shields in recognition of their efforts during the Second World War.

In recent months the land has courted controversy after South Shields Cricket Club proposed plans to built a sports club on the site which would include tennis and squash courts.

However, after much objection from The Friends of Temple Memorial Park, the plans were pulled in February.