Articles Tagged with: local authority leisure

Works Progressing on £17m Transformation of Walnuts Leisure Centre

Significant progress continues on site at the multi-million pound transformation of Walnuts Leisure Centre, including extensive works to the pool hall, window replacements and the completion of works to the roof.

The centre is set to reopen in Spring 2026 following the major £17m refurbishment, which is being funded and delivered by Bromley via Alliance Leisure using the U K Leisure Framework. Residents can also get a better sense of the new competition-length pool and leisure centre spaces, including the café and reception, thanks to newly-released images showing the anticipated new design of the centre.

Councillor Yvonne Bear, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing, said:

I know there is great anticipation for the reopening of this much-loved leisure centre next year and I hope these new designs really give residents a sense of the complete transformation we are delivering for Orpington. This refreshed centre will be a huge boost to the borough’s leisure offering and will act as a hub for regional sporting activity while creating a welcoming space for families and visitors to enjoy, all while cutting our future maintenance liabilities on behalf of council taxpayers.

Ruth Ripsher, Delivery Manager at Alliance Leisure said:

Having supported Bromley Council throughout this project, it is incredibly exciting to see the work now coming off the ground. These new designs reflect a vision we have been working toward for some time, and as the development partner, we are proud to be turning those plans into a reality that will serve Orpington for generations.

Alongside the new pool at the Walnuts, reconfigured changing rooms with new showers and lockers will also be delivered, as well as an improved gym and a new exercise studio with brand new state-of-the-art EGYM smart strength training equipment. This new equipment recognises user’s profiles and adjusts each workout to their body and strength levels, ensuring each session is safe and effective. Essential repairs and a completely new heating system will also reduce running costs at the centre and help ensure the smooth running of the site.

The works at the Walnuts are being progressed alongside the creation of a new West Wickham Leisure Centre, which Alliance Leisure are also delivering through the UK Leisure Framework (owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd), with Etec Contract Services acting as the main contractor for both projects.

For updates about the leisure centre works, visit the council’s dedicated microsite for the projects which was developed and is being maintained by our Engagement Team.

Construction Begins on £12m Droitwich Refurbishment Project

Work officially started this autumn on the £12.7 million redevelopment of Droitwich Spa Leisure Centre that we are delivering for Wychavon District Council.

Following the completion of initial enabling works, the main project is now underway. Designed by Watson Batty Architects and implemented by main contractor Speller Metcalfe, the redevelopment promises a major transformation of the much-loved community facility.

The upgraded centre will feature a brand-new 8x12m learner pool, housed within a modern extension that also includes a welcoming new reception and café area. The addition will allow a full programme of swimming lessons to run without impacting the main pool’s timetable, helping residents of all ages to develop swimming as a vital life skill.

Commenting on the plans, Gillian Dunster, Business Development Manager at Alliance Leisure, said:

This refurbishment is about more than bricks and mortar; it’s about growing confidence in the water, removing barriers to activity and futureproofing a vital community asset. We’re proud to support Wychavon’s net-zero ambitions while enhancing the experience for every visitor.

Alongside the new pool, the project will deliver extensive modernisation across the centre. Upgrades include the renovation of changing areas, the addition of three flexible-use treatment rooms, and improved mechanical and electrical systems. A key focus is sustainability, with air source heat pumps and solar panels helping to boost energy efficiency and support the council’s target of achieving net zero by 2030.

Cllr Dan Birch, Wychavon’s Executive Board Member for Wellbeing, Social Mobility and Transformation, said:

I’m delighted to see how quickly work is progressing on delivering this vital upgrade to Droitwich Spa Leisure centre. You can already see the foundations of the learner pool begin to take shape and I’m excited to watch the scheme develop over the coming months. This is part of our multi-million-pound investment in leisure and wellbeing in the town. We are committed to progressing these schemes at pace to ensure the full leisure offering in Droitwich is delivered in a timely manner for the benefit of our residents.

The first phase of the refurbishment, covering the ‘dry’ side of the centre including the gym and changing rooms, is now progressing well. Excavation for the new learner pool is already underway, with early phases expected to be completed before Christmas. Work will continue through 2026, with the fully refurbished centre due to reopen later in the year.

Reflecting on the milestone, Mark Hudgeon, Regional Director at Speller Metcalfe, said:

We are delighted to be bringing the Droitwich Spa Leisure Centre redevelopment to life. Working closely with Alliance Leisure and the Council, we are committed to delivering a facility that the local community can enjoy for years to come, combining modern design with sustainable solutions.

As a separate contract, the Droitwich project will also see upgrades and expansion to the car park and a new skatepark and pump track installed, further supporting Wychavon’s multi-million-pound investment in leisure, health, and wellbeing in Droitwich Spa.

This project was procured using the UK Leisure Framework, which is owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd (DLL).

Exterior Façade Works Completed at Citadel Leisure Centre

The Citadel Leisure Centre in Ayr has received a major facelift as part of its exciting refurbishment programme.

We are proud to have reached this milestone in the larger project that we are delivering for South Ayrshire Council alongside Robertson Construction Central West. The brief: to deliver a modern, visually striking exterior at the busy facility. The construction of the centre’s brand-new entrance façade was completed earlier this month, and fully encapsulates the council’s objectives.

Works included curtain walling glazing, a new roof overlay above the entrance and cladding. With the façade now complete, focus will now shift to the internal fit out of the new entrance area.

A series of critical infrastructure upgrades are also being carried out to modernise the facility. These include roofing repairs; essential pool plantroom works; a major electrical upgrade and other enabling works.

Councillor Alec Clark, Deputy Leader and Policy Lead for Commercial/Operational Services, comments:

It’s wonderful to see this modern, welcoming entrance take shape at the Citadel as part of the wider improvement programme. It’s a visible sign of the investment being made to ensure the leisure centre continues to serve the community for years to come.

Whilst Jonny Curley, Alliance Leisure’s Director for Scotland, adds:

We are proud to be managing this transformative project on behalf of South Ayrshire Council and South Ayrshire Leisure. The progress on the façade is a clear indicator of the excellent collaboration between the Council, the design team, and the contractors on site. Every milestone achieved, from the early façade demolition to the installation of the final panels, brings us closer to delivering a first-class facility for the community.

The Alliance Leisure Engagement Team has also been working tirelessly behind the scenes to support South Ayrshire Council with their branding, customer engagement, and more. A primary feature of ongoing community engagement has been the creation and management of a dedicated microsite for the project, which contains all of the latest updates and plans for locals to peruse.

This project was procured using the UK Leisure Framework, which is owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd (DLL).

Alliance Leisure appointed to deliver Troon Leisure Club upgrade

South Ayrshire Council has confirmed plans to upgrade and extend Troon Leisure Club, with Alliance Leisure engaged as delivery partner for the programme.

Subject to planning permission, the project is expected to commence in November 2025 and run for approximately 12 months.

South Ayrshire Council’s Depute Leader and Policy Lead for Commercial/Operational Services, Councillor Alec Clark, said:

“I am pleased to confirm our investment in the upgrade of Troon Leisure Club, which will deliver modern, high-quality amenities for the local community. This development reflects our continued commitment to improving Sport and Leisure provision across South Ayrshire.”

The scheme combines retained, refurbished and new-build elements, including:

A new fitness gym and multi-functional studio
A new building frontage, entrance, reception and circulation area
A refurbished wet changing area
A new dry changing area
New baby change, accessible changing and toilet provision
Alterations to external parking, access and landscaping

To maintain access to health and fitness facilities during the refurbishment, a Community Fitness Hub will open at Muirhead Activity Centre in November. A selection of fitness classes will also be introduced, with extended operational hours at Muirhead to accommodate increased use.

Jo Cameron, Delivery Manager at Alliance Leisure said:

“We’re excited to help deliver a sustainable, future-ready leisure destination in Troon, which supports health, wellbeing and social connection across the community. Alliance Leisure is committed to on-time, high-quality delivery, and we look forward to bringing these plans to life with South Ayrshire Council.”

The development is being delivered through the UK Leisure Framework, which is managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd (DLL), and the project team includes Thomas Johnstone, Axiom Project Services, Holmes Miller, Struer and Wallace Whittle.

Bury Leisure Centre upgrades to begin in November

Bury St Edmunds Leisure Centre is set to undergo key improvements, including new water play features, updated changing facilities and complete decarbonisation of the site.

Works at the centre are expected to start in early November and will be completed in phases to minimise disruption to users of the centre.

West Suffolk Council has been successful in securing a decarbonisation grant that enables the leisure centre to replace gas plant with heat pumps.

The proposed enhancements to the leisure centre, combined with the decarbonisation works, will improve the facilities and services to better meet the needs of the community.

West Suffolk Council and Abbeycroft have worked together with Alliance Leisure, the specialist leisure development partner, to design the refurbishment works to reflect the consultation responses and bring this project to fruition.

The first phase includes the installation of a new dedicated Spin Studio and the existing Fitness Suite will be redecorated and new equipment installed – including the enhancement of E-gym offering modern smart fitness technology.

Also included in the first phase is work to the existing health suite, which will be refurbished with a modern sauna, steam room and new solarium facilities. The room finishes will be enhanced to create a more natural tone, creating a light and relaxing environment.

The project was procured using the UK Leisure Framework, owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd (DLL), with the project team consisting of Etec Group, Saunders Boston, Varsity Consulting, Hippo Leisure, Hensall and Leisure Energy.

For the latest updates on this project please visit https://www.abbeycroft.org.uk/bury-leisure-centre-improvements/

I am delighted to announce that the refurbishment work is beginning on the leisure centre this November. This is a well-needed upgrade and enhancement, which has been designed to reflect the needs of our residents and communities, ensuring they are the best fit to enable our community to thrive. Careful consideration has been given to how the works will be completed, and the phased approach means the community can continue to access services that benefit their health and wellbeing.

Cllr Ian Shipp

Cabinet Member for Leisure at West Suffolk Council

We're really excited to see these improvements get underway — they represent a major investment in the future of health and wellbeing for our community. While we anticipate some disruption along the way, we're doing everything possible to minimise it and ensure that our customers can continue to enjoy the facilities they value. Our goal has always been to provide opportunities for everyone to be more active and live healthier, happier lives, and this refurbishment will help us do just that for years to come.

Tracey Loynds

Operations Director, Abbeycroft

We are proud to be overseeing the transformation of Bury St Edmunds Leisure Centre for West Suffolk Council and Abbeycroft. A lot of careful work has taken place to ensure that the new centre fits the local community's unique requirements, and we know that residents will be thrilled with their new facility as a result. What's more, the site's decarbonisation ensures that the facility benefits both people and the planet, making the revitalised leisure centre a true asset to the community.

Ruth Ripsher

Delivery Manager at Alliance Leisure

New Leisure Centre marks sixth successful project with Hyndburn Council

New Cath Thom Leisure Centre marks sixth successful project with Hyndburn Council

The new Cath Thom Leisure Centre at Wilson Sports Village has opened to the public, the latest project successfully delivered by Alliance Leisure for Hyndburn Borough Council.

Funded by the Council and Sport England, the circa £13 million scheme sets a new benchmark for delivering cost-effective, inclusive and sustainable facilities tailored to the needs of the local community.

The project faced a setback following the collapse of the original contractor, ISG, which went into administration in September 2024. Works restarted in January 2025 after the appointment of Universal Civils and Build under the UK Leisure Framework, allowing the development to complete in line with the original scope, specification and quality standards.

We are incredibly proud to be delivering our sixth project with Hyndburn Borough Council, and this one feels particularly special. The Cath Thom Leisure Centre will make a real difference to people's lives, creating opportunities for the community to be active, to connect and to thrive together. This journey hasn't been without its challenges, but the determination and vision shown by the Council has been inspiring. We are delighted to play our part in bringing this landmark facility to life, and we can't wait to see the positive impact it will have for future generations.

Tom Gardner

Business Development Manager, Alliance Leisure

Designed by Pozzoni, the facility is one of the key environmentally responsible buildings in the borough, achieving an impressive A-rated energy efficiency thanks to high-performance construction materials, innovative design features and rigorous quality controls.

The centre’s fossil fuel-free heating, cooling and hot water systems are powered by energy-efficient technologies and supported by solar panels, dramatically reducing the building’s carbon footprint. These measures reduce carbon emissions and running costs, while placing the centre on the cusp of an A+ rating, supporting the Council’s ambition to achieve net-zero carbon activities by 2030.

Named in honour of Cath Thom, the late Councillor for Clayton-Le-Moors, Mayor of Hyndburn and Honorary Alderman, the single-storey building is fully accessible with full level access throughout and wide corridors and doors to make movement easier for everyone. Other features include dedicated accessible showers, toilets and changing facilities as well as a fully equipped Changing Places room for those who need extra space and support.

The 25m swimming pool is equipped with the Poolpod 3.0; a platform lift system offering a safe, dignified and independent entry experience. The centre also has clear and concise signage with added symbols and Braille, while blinds installed between the café and pool area give users the option of privacy when using the pool. The centre has also made provision for accessible parking spaces, with ramps, handrails and outdoor seating to help visitors feel welcome and comfortable.

Set within Wilson Sports Village, alongside woodland paths, a running track and outdoor pitches, facilities at the centre also include a fitness suite, multi-purpose studio, sauna and steam room, café, changing village and external changing facilities for outdoor sports users.

The Cath Thom Leisure Centre has been a real success story for Hyndburn. Alliance Leisure's experience and hands-on approach helped us deliver the project to a high standard. Their experience during a difficult period in the early construction was invaluable. With support from Sport England and other partners, we've created a fantastic, accessible, low carbon leisure facility which will provide opportunities for sport and physical activity for generations to come.

Cllr Munsif Dad

Leader of Hyndburn Borough Council

The project follows decarbonisation and energy efficiency works at Hyndburn Leisure centre in addition to the refurbishment of the centre’s 3G pitch and LED lighting. All works have been delivered by the UK Leisure Framework, which is owned by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, with Alliance Leisure appointed as the council’s development partner.

PSDS works start at Tipton Leisure Centre

PSDS works start at Tipton Leisure Centre to cut carbon and costs

Alliance Leisure, acting as Sandwell Council’s development partner and Leisure Energy, principal contractor, have begun works at Tipton Leisure Centre to deliver a Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) project that will lower running costs and carbon emissions.

The programme replaces ageing fossil fuel gas boilers with a unique sector leading air source heat pump solution, anchored by Leisure Energy’s Net Zero Pod®, alongside new air handling units and a pool heat exchanger. Once operational, the upgrades are expected to achieve a 100% reduction in annual gas consumption and cut around 200 tonnes of CO₂ per year.

Backed by £2 million of investment, largely from Government funding administered by Salix, the project is scheduled to complete by March 2026, supporting Sandwell Council’s commitment to become carbon neutral by 2030.

The Project team, appointed via the UK Leisure Framework (owned by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd), includes Leisure Energy Ltd (principal designer and contractor), Sandwell Leisure Trust (operator), Omega Design Consultants and ORSA Projects Limited.

Through the UK Leisure Framework, we've brought together a turnkey team to fast-track delivery and maximise carbon savings for the community facility.

Dave Spencer

Busienss Development Manager, Alliance Leisure

With the installation of the Net Zero Pod®, this investment makes Tipton Leisure Centre greener and more resilient to energy price volatility, while helping progress towards the Council's net zero ambitions.

Matt Jones

Project Manager, Leisure Energy

New Outdoor Sporting Hub Opens for Burgess Hill

The Arc: New Outdoor Sporting Hub Opens for Burgess Hill

Mid Sussex District Council, in partnership with their development partner Alliance Leisure, has completed The Arc – a new, first-class outdoor sporting destination for Burgess Hill and the wider Mid Sussex community.

The development forms a key part of Brookleigh, the Homes England-led regeneration that will deliver 3,500 homes (30% affordable), public spaces, infrastructure and community facilities. Developed alongside the master developer for Brookleigh, Homes England, the scheme was brought to life by a project team including Hadron Consulting and TG Escapes.

Delivered by sports construction-specialists S&C Slatter, The Arc brings high-quality, durable playing surfaces and support facilities to an 8.6-hectare site, including:

Floodlit 3G football pitch
Artificial grass rugby pitch
Three junior natural turf football pitches
Full-size natural turf football pitch
Artificial cricket wicket with turf outfield
New changing pavilion designed and built by modular specialist TG Escapes, featuring four Sport England-compliant changing rooms, officials’ changing, kit stores, DDA-compliant WCs and a welcoming reception

The Arc is a fantastic addition to Burgess Hill and a testament to what can be achieved through strong partnerships and a commitment to community development. The new sporting facility has been designed by the local community for the local community, ensuring it becomes a valued and integral part of local life. We're excited to see it become a hub for sport, health, wellbeing and connection.

Councillor Robert Eggleston

Leader of the Council

At the heart of the development is a net-zero, timber-frame changing facility using modern methods of construction, eco-friendly materials and integrated technologies to deliver an efficient, warm and inviting space that sits sympathetically within its natural surroundings.

Refined over three years through extensive community engagement, consultation and data analysis, the scheme complements existing sports infrastructure across the district and creates a focal point for sport, health and social connection.

As the government's housing and regeneration agency, we're pleased to be working in partnership with Mid Sussex District Council on the Brookleigh development, a sustainable new community in Mid Sussex. The Arc plays a vital role in this, as a new state-of-the-art sports centre to be enjoyed by the local community.

Graham Hyslop

Director of Projects (Large Sites) at Homes England

The Arc has been part-funded through Section 106 developer contributions, ensuring the benefits of nearby growth are directly reinvested into community facilities. Sustainability has been a guiding principle throughout, from the pavilion’s MMC timber system to a carefully planned site layout that protects and enhances the local environment.

On completion, Places Leisure, the leading social enterprise operator, will manage The Arc, adding to its portfolio of three other leisure facilities in the region.

The project was procure via the UK Leisure Framework, which is owned by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd (DLL).

Work starts on South Holland Health and Wellbeing Hub

Alliance Leisure starts works on South Holland Health and Wellbeing Hub

Alliance Leisure has started work on the new South Holland Health and Wellbeing Hub, after South Holland District Council received £20m of government funding towards the project to address local health and wellbeing outcomes.

Replacing Castle Sports Complex in Spalding, Lincolnshire, which consists of swimming pool and sports buildings in separate locations, the project will deliver an integrated hub. It will combine new swimming pools with a wide range of indoor and outdoor facilities alongside health provision and community spaces.

South Holland has the fourth worst adult activity rate in England, with 40% of adults and 48% of children failing to meet recommended exercise levels. The new Health & Wellbeing Hub is key to addressing these levels of inactivity with facilities and services targeted to families, older people and those interacting with wellness services, as well as enhanced facilities for those who are already engaged.

The population is projected to rise from 98,000 in 2022 to 107,000 by 2036, with people aged 65 and over set to become the largest age group. This shifting demographic will place increasing pressure on health services in South Holland.

I'm delighted that this bold and ambitious project is now underway, and I am looking forward to working with our partners to deliver these new and improved sport and wellbeing facilities for the people of South Holland. This once-in-a-generation funding opportunity is about setting the foundations and creating an attractive, accessible and inviting hub to help our residents to live healthier, more active lives, now and for many years to come.

Councillor Gary Taylor

South Holland District Council's project sponsor

The new multi-million-pound Hub is being delivered by Alliance Leisure on behalf of South Holland District Council, through the UK Leisure Framework, which is managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd (DLL).

The project includes a new swimming complex with a six-lane 25m pool and a six-lane, 20m teaching pool for schools, learners, families, physiotherapy and rehabilitation. A modern changing village and with spaces for families and groups will enhance the offer.

Inside the Hub, facilities will include a sports hall, gym, indoor cycling and fitness studios, play zone and a coffee shop type area. Dedicated spaces will support assisted exercise and health services, including mental health, diabetes and dementia support. The Hub will be fully accessible, with new Changing Places facilities also provided.

Outside, the Hub will offer a full size floodlit 3G football pitch, learn-to-cycle area, BMX and mountain bike facilities and a track for walking, cycling and athletics training.

South Holland has some of the lowest activity levels in the country. This project will create modern sport, leisure and recreation facilities and put essential health and wellbeing services at the heart of the community. The new Hub will help address inactivity, reduce health inequalities and support healthier futures for all residents.

Sean Nolan

Regional Director

Designed with sustainability and reducing carbon emissions firmly in mind, the new centre will be all-electric and completely gas free, featuring air source heat pumps, extensive solar PVs and electric vehicle chargers.

Led by Alliance Leisure, the project team includes contractors Willmott Dixon, Saunders Boston Architects and project managers Hadron Consulting.

The Hub is expected to open to the public in early 2027.

Alliance Leisure Welcomes On-Site Start at £24M Haden Hill Leisure Centre Redevelopment

Alliance Leisure is delighted to announce that major works have now commenced on the £24 million redevelopment of the Haden Hill Leisure Centre, a landmark project that will deliver a state-of-the-art facility for the local community and support health, fitness and social inclusion across Sandwell.

Contractor Speller Metcalfe has moved on-site and begun initial strip-out and demolition of the existing facility, paving the way for full construction to begin in January 2026, with the centre anticipated to open in spring 2027.

The new Haden Hill Leisure Centre is designed to offer a wide variety of modern, flexible amenities to meet the needs of all ages and abilities. Key features include:

A main swimming pool and a learner pool
Two multi-purpose studios for fitness classes and activities
A 100-station gym
A 27-station indoor cycling studio
A four-court sports hall
A dedicated community room to host local groups and events

Procured via the UK Leisure Framework (managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd), the scheme is a partnership between Sandwell Council, Sport England and the Council’s development partner Alliance Leisure. The project team also includes Roberts Limbrick architects, Axiom Project Services, Design Active Ltd and Greenwood Projects.

The £24 million redevelopment is being backed by £20 million from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund, supplemented by contributions from Sandwell Council and Sport England.

While initial on-site activity is underway, the core construction phase will formally begin in January 2026, with full delivery of the new centre by spring 2027.

From Alliance Leisure’s perspective, the project represents not just a building, but a long-term investment in health, equality and social value. As Julia Goddard, Regional Director at Alliance Leisure, commented:

We have worked tirelessly with the council and our other project partners to produce a scheme that will truly change the lives of local residents for the better. The new centre will deliver a modern, inclusive, health-focused facility, and also generate construction jobs, supply chain opportunities and community engagement throughout the delivery period.

It is fantastic to see work start on this new community facility which will benefit thousands of people's health and activity levels and I am so looking forward to it opening to the public. Over the past decade, we have built five new leisure centres including the magnificent Sandwell Aquatics Centre. This investment at Haden Hill Leisure Centre will ensure we are maintaining our high-quality leisure offer to all residents of Sandwell across our six towns.

Councillor Suzanne Hartwell

Sandwell Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Community

123