Our brand-new sensory lighting and sound system at Kings Hedges Learner Pool is officially live, thanks to £45,000 of Section 106 developer contributions. This investment has allowed us to significantly enhance the environment within the learner pool, creating a more inclusive, supportive and calming space for children and young people with sensory needs.

The newly installed system combines carefully designed lighting with an integrated audio–lighting setup. Together, these features help create a soothing and adaptable atmosphere, supporting swimmers who may benefit from reduced sensory overload or a more controlled environment. By allowing lighting and sound to work together, the space can now be tailored to different sessions and needs, making the facility more accessible and welcoming for a wider range of users.

To mark the reopening, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the pool, drawing exceptionally strong attendance from councillors and community representatives. It was fantastic to see such clear support for improvements that directly benefit local families and young people. Those present included Deputy Mayor Cllr Richard Swift, Cabinet Member for Safety, Wellbeing and Tackling Homelessness Cllr Mike Todd-Jones, Leader of Cambridge City Council Cllr Cameron Holloway, and Kings Hedges ward councillors Cllr Martin Smart and Cllr Jenny Gawthrope Wood.

A particularly special part of the event was the involvement of pupils from Martin Bacon Academy, a specialist SEND academy. The students were invited to attend the reopening and were the first to experience the upgraded facility. Watching them explore the pool and interact with the new sensory features was a highlight of the day. Their excitement, curiosity and enjoyment created a genuinely uplifting atmosphere and showed exactly why projects like this matter so much.

Improvements like this help ensure our community facilities are inclusive and accessible for everyone. By investing in thoughtful design and modern technology, we can create spaces where more children and young people feel comfortable, supported and able to take part in activities like swimming.

This upgrade represents a fantastic boost for our community and a meaningful step forward in making our public spaces work for everyone.