Rights Managed > Historic England > The way we were > Leisure
Leisure pool JLP01_10_15002
Filename: jlp01_10_15002.jpg
Size: 6516 x 5144 (6.5MB)
Date: 23rd February 2022
Source: Historic England
Credit: A© Historic England Archive. Joh
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Source: Historic England Archive
Owner URL: https://images.historicenglandservices.org.uk/
© Historic England Archive
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Leisure pool JLP01_10_15002
Kingfisher Leisure Centre, Fairfield Road, Kingston upon Thames, Kingston upon Thames, Greater London. The beach and lagoon zones of the swimming pool at Kingfisher Leisure Centre, with the acoustic absorbent panels suspended from the roof structure above.
In April 1982, a turf-cutting ceremony marked the symbolic start of construction of a new leisure swimming pool, squash courts and cafeteria at Fairfield Road for the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. The scheme design and detailed brief had been provided by the borough in December 1981. The main swimming pool hall was designed to approximate an outdoor pool setting, with a large curvilinear form, shallows accessible by wheelchair, a waterspout, waves and a beach area. A lane zone for competitive swimming and separate teaching pool were also housed in the building. The main pool and beach were lit by natural light through the roof and vertical glazing. Acoustic absorbent panels were suspended from the roof structure; these also contributed to a simulation of outdoor noise dispersal. The completed pool, known as the Kingfisher Leisure Centre, was handed over to the Mayor on 2nd December 1983
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 24397176
© Historic England Archive
1980s Baths Blue Recreation Sport Swimming Pool Tranquil Council Leisure Centre
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Sports
> Sports venues
> Public baths and swimming pools
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the stunning beach and lagoon zones of the Leisure pool at Kingfisher Leisure Centre in Kingston upon Thames, Greater London. The image captures the essence of this remarkable swimming facility, with its unique design elements and innovative features. In April 1982, a momentous turf-cutting ceremony marked the symbolic beginning of construction for this state-of-the-art leisure pool. The Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames had provided a detailed brief and scheme design in December 1981, ensuring that every aspect was carefully planned. The main swimming pool hall was ingeniously designed to replicate an outdoor pool setting, complete with a curvilinear form, wheelchair-accessible shallows, waves, and even a beach area. Natural light flooded through the roof and vertical glazing, illuminating both the main pool and beach zone. One notable feature is the acoustic absorbent panels suspended from the roof structure above. These panels not only enhance sound quality within the facility but also contribute to simulating outdoor noise dispersal. After months of meticulous planning and construction efforts by various parties involved, including A© Historic England Archive who captured this timeless image, on 2nd December 1983, Kingfisher Leisure Centre was proudly handed over to the Mayor. This exceptional facility continues to provide endless hours of enjoyment for residents and visitors alike in Kingston upon Thames.
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