Overwhelmingly positive opinions were expressed at public drop-in meetings ahead of official planning permission for a new sports centre and pool.

Goodwin sports centre, which is owned by the University of Sheffield, is also open to members of the public, who had a chance to view emerging plans, ask questions, and voice any concerns at a series of drop-in meetings last week.

Dominic, 56, a Sheffield local who has been coming to the facility since his student days 35 years ago, said he was excited to see what was next.

“I miss the swimming pool not being there anymore, and the plans are looking good, a smart new layout, things move on and it’s time for a new one.”

Floor plans of new centre- images produced by Faulkner Browns architects.

Many others echoed excitement for the new pool, after the previous one closed in 2023 amidst building safety concerns, many Goodwin users have been forced to travel further to Ponds Forge, or other pools, to access swimming facilities.

Andy Cox, the Director of Sport for the University said that the new pool is a focus point for the plans, to attract high-level competition, and offering a facility for locals.

Fran, who lives on a road directly neighbouring the centre, said that once the pool was “round the corner” she would definitely be a regular.

Representatives from the architects, Faulkner Browns, and commercial property consultants Montagu Evans were at the meetings, as well as many members of the University sports and physical activity staff, who were answering concerns from the public.

Although the vast majority of feedback was positive, there were a few concerns voiced at the meetings.

Dominic said: “What I am considering, is what is going to power the heating for the pool?

“Are they going to take an opportunity to use ground source or something, or will they simply build a diesel engine, I would like to know.”

Taken from a poster displayed at the public meeting – images produced by Faulkner Browns architects.

It is something that was unanswered at the time, but the public meetings were there as much to feedback to the planners, as it was to inform the public.

There will be a period of time for changes and finalisations before planning permission is submitted.