Inspiring aquatic excellence

Ponds Forge was designed to be enjoyed by locals and athletes alike. The multi-functional space includes a 50m pool with 2,500 spectator seats, a competition diving pool, 650m² of leisure water containing a 25m warm-up pool, a multi-use sports hall with 1,200 spectator seats, and a health and fitness suite with gym, sauna, steam and spa pool. A crafted web of tubular, steel arches form the 90m x 60m pool hall, inspired by the steel-making heritage of Sheffield.

The facility has unrivalled conditions for training and competing, meaning it continuously hosts British Swimming and Swim England events. The venue has even been lovingly described as ‘too fast’, with top swimmers posting record-breaking times.

Our design for Ponds Forge marked a shift towards a new generation of sports centres that serve as both world-class competition venues and public facilities. The building harnesses flexibility to meet the strict international requirements of competition facilities while meeting the needs of recreational users, who would be using the space more than 90% of the time.

The 25m warm-up pool, used by competitors before and after races, was also equipped with a wave machine and a 100m long lazy river. Moveable floors and bulkheads allow the Olympic-standard 50m pool to be transformed for swimming lessons, kayaking, scuba diving and more. This adaptability has created a truly inclusive and versatile space for all.