Jacques Rogge Sports Centre official opening In 2013 the plans for the current development including the visionary Sports Centre were approved by the BSB Board and all the authorities involved. The end result ensured that the different materials used connected with the outside: the wooden roof beams over the swimming pool for example, continue into the wall with the same thickness, which is very unusual. This provides a certain rhythm and movement to the room giving speed and energy that we hope helps to inspire the students. Most sports centres of this kind use cement and need columns, breaking up that rhythm. Explained Jos in an earlier interview in Tapestry in 2016. Called Project 3-2-1 denoting 3 key ‘elements’ of the building (sports hall, gym and swimming pool) 2 years to build, and our new address (despite the fact that we did not physically move!) being N°1. Paperwork signed, documents and planning agreed, new logo, lots of hard work and excitement and fun – 2016 the long-awaited Jacques Rogge Sports Centre (JRSC) was officially opened by Mr Jacques Rogge himself in September – on time and on budget! Along the way there was a ‘laying of the first stone’ event, a ‘topping together 50 Learning inspiring success
out ceremony’, a ‘handling over of the keys’ ceremony and a ‘burying of the time capsule’. Achieving the BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) award at the ‘excellent’ level required consideration and commitment of reusable and sustainable materials to be a priority throughout the entire project – and that meant even if the building might be demolished well into the future!
Hundreds of guests attended the official opening and some familiar faces from the years of working together reconnected.
