An agreement to refurbish the Grade II-listed Oasis Leisure Centre in Swindon has been signed, which could pave the way for a planning application later this year.
Swindon Borough Council has exchanged contracts with SevenCapital on a new development agreement which will allow the developer to agree terms with a tenant to run the famous domed swimming pool and finalise plans to refurbish and reopen it.
Once the refurbishment works and lease have been completed, the Oasis and North Star sites would be sold to SevenCapital, with the council having the option to purchase the revamped Oasis.
As part of the development agreement, safeguards are in place to retain the swimming pool’s slides and a wave machine, while the lease to the tenant will also include a 10-year ‘keep open’ clause.
The council expects a planning application for the Oasis will be submitted in the third quarter of this year.
Council leader Cllr Jim Robbins said: “I am really pleased that after many months of working with SevenCapital we have delivered a deal which will not just see the Oasis reopened, but will preserve the famous dome, the wave machine and of course the fabulous slides that were synonymous with the facility for so many years.
“These were what local people said they cherished most about the leisure centre and we have made keeping them a priority.
“We have also inserted a buy-back option for the Oasis and a keep-open clause because it is vital we have safeguards in place to ensure what has happened previously does not happen again.
“We are closer than we have ever been to seeing the Oasis reopened for local people to enjoy once again and now the ball is firmly in SevenCapital’s court to agree a lease with a tenant and confirm the specifications that will give the Oasis a long-term sustainable future.
“I look forward to seeing the planning application coming forward later this year.”
Damien Siviter, group managing director of SevenCapital, said: “SevenCapital and Swindon Borough Council have a mutual goal of breathing new life into the Oasis for the community and future generations to enjoy.
“We’re delighted to have reached this agreement, which marks a positive step forward, and look forward to a continued close working partnership with the council as we push ahead with our plans.”
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