Highlight Opens For Business

Highlight opened on Monday – the culmination of the ambitious two-and-a-half-year construction project.

Hartlepool Life photographer Michael Gant was there to capture these images of the first townsfolk to visit the impressive building at the town’s Marina.

Among them were Hartlepool Life readers David and Rosemary Brereton, who enjoyed the new swimming pools, young mums Becky and Eloise and their children Zakariya and Emma, who visited the cafe and soft play area, and David and Allison Waller, who registered to bring their grandson for swimming lessons.

Visitor Carol Owen said: “I had a brilliant swim this morning. The pool is fabulous, it’s a fantastic building and has everything you could wish for to keep fit and healthy – lovely friendly staff and a nice cafe. What more could you want?” while Katrina Irvine commented: “Well done to everyone. It was a great morning, and wishing you all a great success,” and Balin Wheetman added: “Brilliant! It’s no Mill House, but I hope it all goes – well,  swimmingly!”

Hartlepool Borough Council’s Gemma Ptak, council leader Graham Harrison and town ward councillors Robert Darby, Brenda Harrison and Scott Gaiety were all there to see the Highlight open on this historic day for the town.

Coun. Harrison said, “We are incredibly proud to see this landmark facility open its doors. We have created a space that will support people to live healthier, happier lives for years to come. I have no doubt that Highlight will become a focal point for our community – a place where people of all ages can be active, connect and thrive.”