Pic: London Borough of Lewisham

Residents of Forest Hill were greeted with the sight of the newly re-opened Forest Hill Pools this weekend.

Just under nine million pounds have been spent on improving the pools’ facilities since redevelopment began in September last year.

The doors were unlocked on Saturday and local families were able to enjoy the site’s new energy-efficient and eco-friendly attractions. Facilities include a 25-metre pool, a learner pool, a fitness suite, and an exhibition area.

Sir Steve Bullock, Mayor of Lewisham, was at the re-opening. He said: “This is a very exciting day for Lewisham.  I am thrilled to be here today in Forest Hill at yet another fantastic new facility for the borough.  It’s a real tribute to the hard work and energy of everybody involved.”

A celebration on Saturday, September 22, ‘Forest Hill Celebrates’, will see a day of taster sessions at the Pools, including a game of underwater hockey.

While tours and exhibitions will be free to view at the site, there will also be events on throughout Forest Hill. The Forest Hill Library will have a day of storytelling, poetry readings and gaming on the Nintendo Wii.

There will also be an opportunity to hear more information about the Portas Pilot scheme, in which 25 towns around the UK will get funds and mentoring to rejuvenate their high streets. Sydenham and Forest Hill were chosen in August to be part of the project.