February 11, 2015 3.23 pm This story is over 108 months old

North Kesteven Sports Centre rebranded in £3.6m makeover

One NK: North Kesteven Sports Centre will be rebranded as part of its £3.6m refurbishment.

Phase two of work to revamp North Kesteven Sports Centre into a new £3.6 million facility has begun, with local contractors secured for the build.

North Kesteven District Council (NKDC)’s redevelopment of the centre in North Hykeham is set for completion in March 2016, when it will be relaunched as One NK.

As previously reported, the scheme was set for £2.5 million of investment before the council agreed to allocate a further £1.1 million of its New Homes Bonus.

The name change comes after the idea was welcomed in a public consultation.

The council’s project board voted on a number of different options, with One NK coming out on top due to the nature of the name — one place to go to the gym, swim, take a class, theatre or even go to school.

With the second phase of the project underway, NKDC appointed local contractors Lindum Group to take on the work.

A plan of the areas allocated for improvements on the ground floor of the centre. Image: NKDC

A plan of the areas allocated for improvements on the ground floor of the centre. Image: NKDC

The next part of One NK’s journey sees the introduction of two multi-purpose activity studios. The studios will feature a semi-sprung cushioned vinyl floor; an acoustic suspended ceiling system; modular lighting and air conditioning, alongside glazed screens to see into the studios.

The cafe will be relocated on the ground floor and there will also be improved air conditioning, heating and lighting, new dry changing rooms with private cubicles and showers, and a unisex assisted changing facility.

An Artists' Impression of how the first floor of the centre will look after redevelopment. Image: NKDC

An Artists’ Impression of how the first floor of the centre will look after redevelopment. Image: NKDC

By the end of the project, work will also be carried out to improve the swimming pool facilities.

The flume will be replaced and relocated to enable better spectator viewing during gala activities, the area surrounding the pool will be re-tiled, the pool hall modernised, a Toddler Splash activity area created, the heating system renewed and the building re-roofed.

A new 3G all-weather all-purpose football pitch is already open after construction was carried out by Woodhead.

In addition, the gym will be relocated and enlarged, more studio space will be provided and the building will be re-roofed.

Lindum say they aim to keep disruption to a minimum, however people should expect a few temporary changes. These include the contractors making use of some of the parking and tennis courts, closure of the spectator gallery and the café operating from the Theatre Foyer until its new location is complete.

Council Leader Marion Brighton OBE said: “Our main aim with the North Kesteven Centre project is to meet the needs of the customer. Through consultation we listened to what is required and remain committed to arts and leisure in the district.

“With the help of Lindum Group Ltd, we believe this will be carried out to a high standard and look forward to seeing the results over the next year.”

Kevin Damarell, Managing Director of Lindum Building and Maintenance Services in Lincoln added: “Being a local contractor we understand what these facilities mean to the community, and will put our heart and soul into the project to make sure it meets everyone’s needs.”