A new building is being considered for the swimming pool and sports hall

The most recent reports on the condition of the swimming pool and sports hall predict either expensive renovations or the construction of a completely new sports center.

In the risk assessment of consulting firm Vanhanen Oy carried out in September, the cost of the renovation is estimated to be more than 20,4 million euros, as the repair rate of the properties is 71,6 percent.

According to research, used in pool structures the concrete is of poor quality and does not meet the requirements set for the concrete structures of pools, for example regarding the tightness of the concrete. The problems are similar to those in the much-controversial Tapiola swimming pool.

─ The long-term maintenance of the concrete structures of the pools depends on those installed in the pools of water pressure insulation in reserve. The condition of the water pressure insulation must therefore be monitored annually, even if they are renewed during the renovation, CEO of Mitra Imatra Rakennuttaja Oy Lassi Nurmi says.

Individual indoor air studies have been carried out in the property. Temperature and other air quality problems have also been observed. There are roof leaks on the side of the sports hall and the underground parts are risky structures. In the property as a whole, the condition of the heating pipes also needs renovation.

A repair is at least as expensive as a new building

According to the report, there is a lot involved in the overhaul risks. Many risks are realized in structures shorter in service life.

─ If architecture the functionality is appreciated and the risks of renovation are wanted to be taken, then the building can be renovated. During the renovation, the construction period of about 1,5 years, when the facilities are closed, should also be taken into account, says Nurmi.

Both properties have a conservation label.

Nurmi reminds us that if the water pressure insulation starts to crack one day, the property must be immediately banned from use.

Nurmi estimates at this stage that a similar new building can be implemented even at the price of a basic renovation.

Decisions maybe still this year

On Tuesday, the city council stated that investigations into the new building will be started.

Both the current Pässiniemi plot and Ukonniemi are explored as locations.

─ Decisions on whether to build a new sports center or renovate the old one will be made when calculations of the costs of new construction and estimates of the effects of the alternatives are completed. At the earliest, the time for decisions is at the end of the year, chairman of the city board Anna Helminen says.

The board also gave preparatory instructions for the removal of the protection mark of the swimming hall and sports hall in the plan to be started.

For more information:

Anna Helminen, chairman of the city council, tel. 040 548 3790, give. pearlimatra.fi

CEO Lassi Nurmi, Mitra, p. 05 235 2850, lassi. grassmitra.fi (lassi[dot]nurmi[at]mitra[dot]fi)