Derby’s ‘world-class’ swimming pool back on the agenda

City of Derby swimmer Adam Peaty’s gold medal triumph at the Rio Olympics has led Derby City Council to renew its ambition to build a “world-class” swimming pool at Moorways.

This week, Peaty smashed his own world record to win the 100m breaststroke in 57.13 seconds and end Great Britain’s 28-year wait for a men’s Olympic swimming title.

The Labour-led City Council says it wants to push on with building a 50m pool and leisure water complex, adding it “wants to keep Derby swimming”.

Councillor Baggy Shanker, Derby City Council cabinet member, said: “We understand the many benefits swimming can offer to people of all ages, from toddlers and schoolchildren to Olympic athletes and the elderly.

“We are making progress on our ambitious plans for a new pool, but it will take time and we want the swimming community in Derby to be involved in this process.

“Together, we need to explore every opportunity for external funding and make sure that our plans deliver the maximum benefit to residents across the city.

“I look forward to Adam’s return from the Olympics and would welcome his input into our plans for swimming and the new pool in Derby.

Councillor Martin Rawson, deputy leader of Derby City Council, said: “Obviously, building the pool is a really positive step forward. We’ll continue to work with the City of Derby and Derventio Excel clubs about what they need to spur forward the next generation of swimmers.”