Michael:

Lets see LBL conduct a proper competition between architects where they are told "our budget is ?7.5M, we want two pools and dry leisure facilities. If you need to generate extra monies to cover an increased budget, you may include housing on the site. The community is deeply split over any decision on preserving the existing buildings, so your design may include or demolish the Superintendant's block of the pools (and/or possibly Louise House). Louise House has been Grade II listed and would need the relevant consents before being demolished."

The resulting designs could then be short listed before being put out for consultation.

A two pool solution on the site of the existing pools is feasible (as proven by Capita options 4 and 6 in 2006). Option 4 (retaining the Superintendant's block) was costed at ?8.3M, while option 6 (new build) was costed at ?7.5M (2008 pounds). Both provided parking, community and fitness facilities. If Louise House is used for the dry fitness and community facilities, then the new building would only need to be single storey which would save money (and could then be used for the refurbishment).