York’s ruling Executive will receive an update on the huge progress being made to deliver the York Stadium Leisure Complex when they meet on 27 September.
Construction works are on target, with completion scheduled for May 2019, followed by post-construction follow-up and test events to allow for a July 2019 opening.
Major milestones have been achieved on the project since the last full report was brought to Executive in October 2017, including:
- Construction work started in December 2017 with much of what the complex will look like now visible, including the steelwork for the stands. The main swimming pool and learner pool have been constructed and the leisure centre is now having its external cladding added.
- A new partner joining the York Leisure Complex, Little Gym, a children's gym offering activities for kids including parent/child classes, kids dance, gymnastics, sports skills and karate.
- Since December 2017 GLL have been successfully operating Energise and Yearsley Swimming Pool as part of the long term leisure contract signed in November 2017.
- GLL have now reached a formal legal agreement with the Stadium Operator. York City have set up a specific company to operate the stadium which will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the stadium part of the site. GLL will be responsible for the overall management of the York Stadium Leisure Complex site.
At the meeting councillors will be asked to note the progress and agree to extend the proposed financial support towards the York City Knights’ first team playing arrangements at Bootham Crescent, up until the new stadium is operational. This will be up to the net cost of £30,000 for the 2019 Rugby League season, it is proposed this will be paid for from the existing project budget.
Councillor Ian Gillies, Leader of City of York Council said: “Once complete the York Stadium Leisure Complex will offer top class facilities which all our residents can enjoy, with a wide range of improved facilities in addition to the actual sports stadium.
“It is exciting to hear all the positive progress being made with as we work towards opening next summer.”
Once complete, the York Stadium Leisure Complex will feature an 8,000 all-seat community sports stadium hosting professional football and rugby league games. There will also be new leisure facilities with a swimming pool, gym, dance studio, indoor and outdoor climbing facilities and a sports hall with spectator seating.
A commercial development on the stadium site will include a cinema complex, with IMAX screen, five restaurants and up to three retail units.