The council is seeking £4.2m for the three-year delivery phase of the project, with a decision expected between February and March 2027. If successful, improvements are anticipated to begin shortly afterwards, focusing on enhancing the visitor experience and safeguarding the area's unique wildlife. The council's immediate priority is the reopening of the Woodland Walk.
Cllr Stephen Giles-Medhurst OBE, Leader of Three Rivers District Council, stated that the bid, if successful, would enable significant works including new landscaping to create a welcome hub outside the café and river restoration. He also confirmed that £1.4m in external funds, including a council contribution, has already been secured for the three-year programme.
Cllr Chris Lloyd, Lead Member for Leisure, highlighted the Aquadrome's popularity among residents and visitors, acknowledging the feedback received from engagement events over the past year. He expressed gratitude to the public for their input and to the council officers for their work on the application.
While we wait for the decision, you can keep up to date and read more about the project on the Rickmansworth Aquadrome Project webpage.
Last year, Three Rivers District Council received £736,515 from National Lottery players to develop a Master Plan and detailed designs, which informed the current funding application for the £5m Delivery Phase.
