Doors to Dulwich Leisure Centre's restored Victorian swimming pool re-open on Friday 24th September 2010 marking the completion to Phase 1 of the £6.1million facelift to the leisure centre in East Dulwich.

The transformation sees an upgrade to the building and facilities while preserving and enhancing its historical Victorian features.

The works have been far reaching. The pool area has been completely retiled, and the new pool hall roof, insulated and re-glazed, now floods the space with natural light.

The pool itself has undergone total refurbishment and been fitted with a UV filter to remove the majority of pollutants and microbes which will improve water conditions and also help to reduce chlorine levels. In addition, to improve environmental efficiency and help keep running costs down, roof mounted solar thermal panels have been installed to preheat water and reduce demand on the boilers.

The first phase of the multi million pound project has also seen the construction of a brand new reception area with comfortable seating and a cafe. The contemporary reception is part of the eye catching new entrance which can now be found on Crystal Palace Road.

One of the significant improvements across the site is access for those with a disability or visual impairment. Now, step free access, lowered counters, dedicated accessible changing and clear signage, contribute to a centre that is fully inclusive to all.

Peter Kay, chief executive officer of Leisure Trust, Fusion Lifestyle, which runs the centre, said: The redevelopment of Dulwich Leisure Centre is a tremendous project, and these refurbished facilities provide an enormous asset for Southwark. The project is testament to the Council's support for the future of leisure, and the first class facilities created here offer a place not just for sport and fitness, but also relaxation and fun."

Councillor Veronica Ward, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure, Sport and the Olympics, said: "Everyone involved in the redevelopment of Dulwich Leisure Centre has worked tremendously hard and all the effort getting the pool area up and running has paid off. The centre will offer locals a superior facility which I hope will inspire them to get active and healthy and as a place to socialise and enjoy themselves."