Last Friday (February 8) he was given a preview of the long-awaited 25-metre replacement pool before it opened fully to the public on Monday.
The pool is part of the second phase of the £7.4 million redevelopment of Monmouth Leisure Centre – which has been rebranded as Monmouth’s Premier Facility – and also includes a health spa and beauty treatment rooms.
The treatment room is run by Vicki Goodway who used to have a salon in the town.
The health spa features a Jacussi, sauna and steam room.
Mr Simpson is a keen swimmer who looks forward to regular visits.
Centre manager Nick Butler said the new-look centre was already drawing in people from the Forest and south Herefordshire.
Deputy leader of Monmouthshire Council, Cllr Bob Greenland (Con, Wolvesnewton) said: “Our aim from the beginning was not to make it like an ordinary local authority leisure facility but to make it much more like a private facility. We have achieved that.”
He said that people living in other parts of the county would be asking when they were going to get similar facilities.
“It’s a very great pleasure and privilege to celebrate a successful project three years in the making.
“At a time when other councils were closing leisure centres, we committed to this new modern facility and we now see the fulfilment of our promise to the people of Monmouth and the surrounding areas.
“I’d also like to recognise the contribution of development specialist Alliance Leisure which has supported the council throughout the project and the ISG construction services company for its wonderful work here in Monmouth.
“Thanks to the work of so many people it has come in on time and in budget.”
Part of the cost was met by the Welsh Government.