A ROYAL visitor made a splash when he opened a £5m library and swimming pool complex.

Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex, toured the site in Church Road, Biggin Hill, and met library users and swimmers.

Looking around the facilities he saw the focal points of the development, the 25m six lane pool and the library, as well as the public meeting area and the café.

The Biggin Hill Memorial Library and Swimming Pool was built on the site of the town’s former library after a 10,000 household consultation showed a strong preference to build a pool.

Executive councillor for renewal and recreation Cllr Julian Benington said: “There had been much talk about the need for a swimming pool over the years and we listened very carefully to what local residents were saying.

“The results are evident for everyone to see.

“This is an investment for now and for the future and already these first rate facilities are becoming a focal point for the wider community.

“Old and young alike are benefitting with swimmers and readers enjoying these facilities in the heart of Biggin Hill.”

Other services available on site include free internet, wi-fi access and parking facilities.

The building has memorial in the title in recognition that land was given as a memorial to respect and remember the role that the crews based at the Biggin Hill airfield played in the Battle of Britain.

It is run by Bromley Mytime, the charitable leisure provider, and is open seven days a week.