Articles Tagged with: transformingleisure

Construction Tees Off on Adventure Golf Course

Scorpions, a clocktower and a well-known seal will be testing golfer’s skills later this year, as construction tees off on the new Isle of Sheppey themed adventure golf course.

The course has been designed with input from local people and is being installed alongside the soon-to-be extended and improved leisure centre at Beachfields, as part of Swale Borough Council’s Sheerness Revival project, which sees Alliance Leisure as the appointed development partner.

The exciting new course features 18 holes celebrating the unique heritage and landmarks of the Island. The council actively sought ideas from local school children and the wider community to help shape the final designs, ensuring the course truly reflects local pride. The feedback has led to some brilliant changes from the council’s initial concepts.

Following a popular suggestion, a planned whale feature has become “Sammy the Seal” – a tribute to the friendly seal who became a familiar sight around the Island.

Another suggestion, from a pupil at Rose Street Primary School, has led to the swapping of a lighthouse design for a model of the historic High Street clock tower.

Students from EKC Secondary School proposed scorpion obstacles along with representation of the blue town wall for one hole – their tails providing a fun challenge at the end of the course.

Local input also inspired the design of the service hut, which will now resemble the iconic beach huts lining Sheppey’s coastline.

Many other public suggestions were already part of the plans, confirming the designs resonate with local heritage.

The new adventure golf course is expected to open in late July and will revive a legacy at Beachfields, which has been a destination for leisure since the 1840s and even hosted a previous course. It forms just one part of the major improvements planned for the Beachfields site under the Sheerness Revival project.

This wider regeneration includes modernising and expanding the GP practice, renovating the gym, creating a dedicated space for local charity Sheppey Matters, and installing adventure play and TAGactive facilities.

The council also plans to add a new café, a free outdoor gym, and improve accessibility throughout the public space.

This project brings back adventure golf to Beachfields, enhancing the leisure facilities available for residents and visitors, celebrating the Isle of Sheppey, and contributing to a revitalised Sheerness. They were procured through the UK Leisure Framework, which is owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd.

Work Underway for Walnuts Leisure Centre Transformation

The multi-million-pound transformation of Walnuts Leisure Centre is progressing rapidly, with the swimming pool now drained as part of the ongoing strip-out work to prepare the site for a complete refurbishment.

This eagerly awaited upgrade is being delivered by Bromley Council through their development partner Alliance Leisure and will feature a range of improvements informed by extensive community consultation, including an enhanced gym, reconfigured changing rooms with new showers and lockers, and a competition-length swimming pool. The new pool will serve both residents and local swimming clubs, reinforcing Bromley’s role as a key hub for regional sports.

A new exercise studio will also be created, equipped with power-assisted equipment to support those with mobility issues or those undergoing rehabilitation. Additionally, essential repairs will be made to the centre, and a brand-new heating system will be installed, which will help reduce costs and ensure the efficient operation of the facility. Finally, a new café will provide refreshments and the opportunity for socialising.

The project was procured using the UK Leisure Framework, owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, and the project team also comprises contractors Etec, GT3 Architects, Varsity Consulting, Hensall, CGP MEP, FT Leisure, and Myrtha Pools.

Councillor Yvonne Bear, Bromley’s Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing, commented:

I know many residents will be excited to hear of the progress being made on site as we know how important this centre is to the residents that it serves. Transforming this centre is a significant investment that we have prioritised, not only to provide an important boost to the borough’s leisure provision, but also to complete essential works to help reduce our future maintenance liabilities, ensuring the centres serves Orpington and council taxpayers effectively for many years to come.

The revamped leisure centre is set to reopen next year, following its temporary closure in January for refurbishment.

Ruth Ripsher, Delivery Manager at Alliance Leisure said:

We’re excited to be getting underway with these works and delivering these leisure improvements based on our 25 years’ experience leading on over 280 high quality leisure centre redevelopments.

Construction Partner Appointed on Trowbridge Leisure Centre Project

Wiltshire Council has announced its construction partner, Pellikaan Construction, for the new Trowbridge Leisure Centre, which is being delivered by the Council’s development partner Alliance Leisure.

Pellikaan Construction are well known to the council, having previously delivered the highly regarded Melksham Community Campus, which opened in 2022.

Throughout the project, Alliance Leisure and the council have worked closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the quality and relevancy of the new facility through public consultation, project-specific websites, and stakeholder surveys.

The new leisure centre will feature high-quality materials, including glazed facades and a prominent entrance to greet visitors. Its modern, industrial design will reflect Trowbridge’s heritage, while accessibility will be central to the interior layout. To align with the council’s carbon-neutral goal for 2030, the building will be energy-efficient, utilizing a fabric-first approach, and solar panels will help power the all-electric facility. The surrounding landscaping will create a green space in Trowbridge with walking, cycling, and wheeling routes.

The new facility is expected to include:

A six-lane, 25m swimming pool
A 7m x 13m learner pool
A gym with 120 exercise stations
Two fitness studios
An immersive spin studio
A community meeting room
A café
Adventure play area targeting young people (ages 12-16) with TAGactive activities
A ‘Live Well’ suite for older adults to exercise

Cllr Ian Blair-Pilling, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Public Health, commented:

Yet another milestone has been reached on this project, which has significant momentum – demonstration of our desire and passion to deliver this brand-new leisure centre for Trowbridge and the wider area. We’re delighted to be working with Pellikaan Construction on another significant project, and they showed how professional and community-focussed they are with their work on the hugely popular Melksham Community Campus.

The location of our new leisure centre in Trowbridge will not only provide quality health, fitness and wellbeing facilities for our communities and help unlock wider work in the area to complement our overall vision for Trowbridge and enhance connectivity. Work will be getting underway very soon and the whole project team can’t wait to see our vision start to take shape.

Wiltshire Council has partnered with Alliance Leisure, the delivery partner for the UK Leisure Framework (UKLF), which is owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, to bring the project to fruition. This collaboration ensures an end-to-end solution, covering the design, procurement, and construction of a sustainable leisure centre for the local community. The expert project team also boasts Roberts Limbrick architects and Hadron Consulting.

Julia Goddard, Regional Director at Alliance Leisure, said:

With our extensive experience in developing over 280 leisure projects, we are committed to leading a team of top-tier experts to create an exceptional new leisure facility for Trowbridge. Our goal is to design a sustainable and inclusive leisure centre that caters to the needs of the local community, fostering long-lasting improvements in physical and mental health and wellbeing.

Construction is expected to begin in Spring 2025.

£13.7m New Leisure Centre Completes Ahead of Schedule in Shropshire

The much-anticipated Whitchurch Swimming & Fitness Centre has officially been completed, marking a significant milestone for the community.

The state-of-the-art facility, developed in partnership with Alliance Leisure and procured through the UK Leisure Framework (UKLF), is set to open its doors to the public on the 19^th March. The new leisure centre for Shropshire Council replaces the former facility, which was closed in 2020 due to structural issues.

The new centre boasts a 25-metre, six-lane community pool with a movable floor, a 41-station fitness suite, multi-purpose rooms, accessible changing rooms, and a café. This modern facility aims to provide vital services to the community, attract visitors from nearby regions, boost economic growth, and create new opportunities for local businesses. Additionally, five local primary schools will benefit from access to these state-of-the-art facilities.

The building has also implemented a vast range of sustainability initiatives in order to reduce its impact on the environment and be designed to BREEAM Excellent standards. It has been designed using a ‘Fabric First approach’, whereby thermally efficient cladding, roof structures, and glazing will reduce heat loss. Further, solar panels have been installed on the roof to supplement electricity usage, and highly efficient air source heat pumps will provide heating and cooling within the building.

Robert Macey, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet Lead for Culture and Digital, commented:

I am thrilled to see the progress we have made with the Whitchurch Swimming and Fitness Centre. The build quality is exceptional, and the range of facilities on offer will cater to all members of our community. This project is a testament to our commitment to providing high-quality leisure services and promoting a healthy lifestyle for our residents.

The £13.7m project, funded by the council, is opening a phenomenal 10 weeks early thanks to the collaboration of all parties involved, The project was delivered using the UK Leisure Framework, owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, alongside Pellikaan Construction, Roberts Limbrick architects, Greenwood Projects as the Principal Designer, Design Active as the council’s technical support, and Axiom Project Services as Project Managers. The centre will be operated by Serco.

Gillian Dunster, Business Development Manager at Alliance Leisure who oversaw the project, said:

The new Whitchurch Pool & Fitness Centre is a testament to what can be achieved through early, successful collaboration. This incredible new facility will absolutely revolutionise the way that local residents from Whitchurch and the surrounding rural areas can get active and socialise. We have worked closely with the council to develop a facility mix that befits the community’s needs, and we can’t wait to see the centre fulfil its objectives upon opening.

Transformed Market Halls Open in Leek

Leek’s historic indoor market has opened to the public following a £3.4 million refurbishment, led by Alliance Leisure, designed to preserve its role at the heart of the Staffordshire Moorlands community for years to come.

The project saw a complete refurbishment of the historic Victorian Butter and Trestle Markets to attract new and varied customers and traders, whilst also creating space for community use in creative and artistic ventures.

Installation of three new food and beverage lock-up units
Addition of a new entranceway, allowing the two market halls to operate independently and enabling weekend and evening events to be held in the Trestle Market
Victorian character of the shop fronts has been restored at the Butter Market Hall to improve the customer experience and provide modern, flexible retail units
Installation of Wi-Fi, CCTV, insulation and heating to improve customer experience
Replacement of the trestle tables with lighter-weight alternatives

Sustainability was a key consideration on this project due to the council’s Net Zero targets, so solar panels and air source heat pumps were installed along with replacement of the Trestle Market roof to improve insulation.

Planning Permission Granted for Leisure Centre in Kingston

The new leisure centre for Kingston town centre is one step closer to reality as planning permission has been granted for the project.

The approved design will offer a variety of activities that our communities have requested, housed in a sustainably designed building. The centre will feature a 25m x 8 lane swimming pool, a training and teaching pool, a new health suite, gym, cycling and activity studios, sports hall, squash courts, soft play area, and café.

Accessibility and inclusivity are key aspects of the project. It will create new pedestrian links into the town centre, alongside a range of landscaped public spaces throughout the scheme, as well as a new and improved play area.

Gaining planning permission is a huge step forward, and we are excited to get on and deliver the new centre that meets the highest standards of quality, sustainability and accessibility, and meets the needs of our communities. We are moving swiftly towards putting a spade in the ground, and are on the final stretch of the procedures needed on a project of this scale, so that we can bring forward a fantastic new facility for all in the borough.

Cllr Alison Holt

Portfolio Holder for Economic Development and Leisure

Final committee approval for the construction contract will be sought in March. If granted, construction is expected to begin in Spring 2025, with the new building set to open in Spring 2027.

In a notable change from the previous project, construction experts Pellikaan have been involved much earlier in the process to provide better assurances around costs and scheduling as the project progresses. Designed by award-winning architects Roberts Limbrick, the project continues to be overseen by Alliance Leisure, procured through the UK Leisure Framework, which is owned by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd (DLL). They have assembled the expertise needed to deliver the project, including project management from Hadron Consulting.

We are delighted that this hugely significant project has now taken another large step towards being delivered for Kingston. We are looking forward to continuing at pace through the final stage of pre-construction, and working with our expert partners to deliver this exciting new centre that meets the needs of the borough for many years to come.

Tom Fairey

Development Director, Alliance Leisure

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Kingston Development Website

Boathouse Restoration Project Begins in the Lake District

Work has begun on the Low Bank Ground Activity Centre in Coniston.

The £484,000 project, which is being delivered by Alliance Leisure for Be Well, Wigan Council’s health and wellbeing arm, is set to enhance the offering at a well-loved outdoor adventure centre.

Due to complete in May of 2025, the council-funded development revolves around the refurbishment and extension of Low Bank Ground Activity Centre’s existing boathouse. The centre hosts weekly visits from schools and group stays over the weekends, so these works are instrumental in increasing the breadth of activities available at the centre. Not only will this improve activity levels of attendees, but also drive extra revenue for Wigan Council.

Utilising the UK Leisure Framework, which is owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd., arrangements for the project have been effective, and Alliance Leisure were able to assist in the arrangement of some of the more challenging approvals and licenses, in particular.

The team of experts working on this project alongside us are Universal Group, Bradshaw Gass and Hope, and Axiom Project Services.

Stuart Holden, Service Manager for Be Well, said:

The Low Bank Ground Outdoor adventure centre on Lake Coniston is a special place cherished by many residents of the borough who experience the best that the Lake District has to offer in such a unique setting. For many young children, its often the first time that they spend time away from their families and the outcomes that the centre generates are often life changing.

Wigan Council are committed to investing into the future of the centre. Alliance Leisure, our trusted partner for this project and the team that they have comprised have demonstrated a real understanding of the centre and what is required to successfully deliver the project in this setting. We look forward to entering the construction phase now planning has been secured and bringing the boathouse back into action for the summer.

Tom Gardner, Business Development Manager at Alliance Leisure, adds:

This project is an exciting opportunity to enhance the current offering at Low Bank Ground Activity Centre, creating a more engaging environment for schools and group visits. By refurbishing the boathouse and expanding access to outdoor activities it will promote healthier lifestyles, inspiring a love for adventure, and support the long-term sustainability of this valued community asset.

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Alliance Leisure Appointed to Lead Brighton Project

Alliance Leisure Appointed to Lead Momentous Brighton Project

Brighton & Hove City Council has selected Alliance Leisure to oversee the design and construction of a new sports and leisure facility, which will replace the outdated King Alfred Leisure Centre.

For the next phase, which involves finalizing the design and submitting the planning application, the professional team, brought together by Alliance Leisure, will be led by GT3 Architects, known for their expertise in designing energy-efficient sports facilities. GT3 previously worked with the council on their Sports Facilities Investment Plan and have a solid understanding of the city’s vision for sport and leisure.

Alongside GT3, the core design team is made up of civil and structural engineers Engenuiti, Van Zyl & de Villiers (VZDV), the project’s building services and engineering consultant, and Hadron Consulting, serving as technical project managers.

The team has been brought together through the use of the UK Leisure Framework, owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure, which facilitates the procurement process and enables early engagement from all parties.

Councillor Alan Robins, Cabinet member for Sports and Recreation at Brighton & Hove City Council, commented:

This is a really exciting step to move forward long-overdue plans for a new leisure centre.

I’m really pleased to have Alliance Leisure on the project. I’ve seen what they’ve delivered elsewhere – and they understand the challenges that are unique to the sector better than anyone.

It’s crucial we come up with the best possible solution, which offers value for money and provides residents with a modern, energy-efficient sports centre that makes the most of the seafront location.

I’m confident that, with the team’s experience, we can deliver a facility the city can be proud of.

In the coming months, the professional team will refine the designs, ensuring they meet modern sports and energy standards while delivering value for money. The facility will be designed to blend seamlessly with its seafront setting.

The design process will incorporate existing feasibility studies around practicality, financial viability, and health and wellbeing, along with insights gathered from the community over the past two years.

Tom Fairey, Development Director at Alliance Leisure, said:

Alliance Leisure is delighted to partner with the council to progress this significant project for the regeneration of the King Alfred Leisure Centre, procured through the UK Leisure Framework.

Alliance Leisure brings extensive experience, along with our specialist partners, and we look forward to working collaboratively with the council to shape a new, sustainable and inclusive leisure centre that meets the needs of the Brighton & Hove community, providing long-lasting improvements in physical and mental health and wellbeing.

While the new facility is being developed, the council aims to keep the existing facility operational for as long as possible.

Cllr Robins added:

The 80-year-old King Alfred Leisure Centre is beyond the end of its life and challenging to operate, but it remains one of the most well-used facilities in the city. We’ll continue to do what we can to keep it open for as long as feasible, while we progress our exciting new plans.

The council and Freedom Leisure are committed to investing in the existing King Alfred Leisure Centre and making improvements where needed, to ensure residents continue to have access to a safe and accessible sports centre that meets the current needs of local residents.

Planning approval for the project will be sought at a Cabinet meeting in summer 2025, the council will seek agreement on the design and the landowner’s consent for submission of a planning application, with said application due to be submitted by the end of 2025.

Learn more about the background and development of the new leisure centre here.

Work Begins On Pioneering ‘Cultural House’ In Skegness

Work Begins on Pioneering ‘Cultural House’ in Skegness

Alliance Leisure has begun the transformation of the historic Embassy Theatre in Skegness into one of the UK’s first Scandinavian-inspired ‘culture houses.’

This ambitious redevelopment supports East Lindsey District Council’s vision to enhance local engagement with the arts, celebrate diversity, and create a venue with year-round appeal.

Works on this trailblazing project are being delivered through the UK Leisure Framework, bringing together a proven team of leisure development specialist including Universal Construction and LK2 Architects. Axiom is overseeing day to day project management, with Alliance Leisure responsible for the overall project delivery.

The project incorporates two new, single storey extensions, adding to the venue’s current footprint. Works will include significant upgrades to seating within the auditorium, enhanced backstage access and facilities, the creation of a new feature entrance and a multi-purpose space to the rear of the building. A new external seating area will be introduced and there will be upgrades to existing changing rooms and toilet areas throughout.

Andy Newman, Director, LK2 Architects, explains:

The Embassy improvements are based on the founding design principles of the Scandinavian ‘culture house’. The development will provide larger areas for multi-use operations for Arts, Culture and Theatre use. The design provides a visible and attractive frontage with light airy arrival spaces offering maximum functionality and appeal to encourage the public to engage with the arts whilst providing new and refurbished staff and theatre areas to improve existing operations.

These latest works, funded through the Towns Fund, Arts Council England and East Lindsey District Council capital, form part of the Skegness Connected Coast Town Deal and Arts Council England’s Cultural Development Fund project.

Councillor Steve Kirk, the council’s champion for the project, says:

I am delighted to see another of our transformational Towns Fund projects getting underway in Skegness, and cannot wait to enjoy the cultural offer and opportunities it brings first-hand.

This project will help to allow residents and holiday-goers alike access to the highest quality of performances, workshops and more, and provide a platform for new creative businesses to develop and grow in East Lindsey and attract more visitors throughout the year.

Working with Alliance Leisure, through the UK Leisure Framework, gives us confidence that the project will be delivered on time and on budget. The timing of this project is absolutely critical. We need to be able to welcome visitors back into the main auditorium at the beginning of March because from that point on the theatre has a full schedule of shows booked.

Seb Rowe, Project Delivery Manager, Alliance Leisure, concludes.

Having served the town since 1926, the Embassy Theatre is a much-loved part of the town’s history. This investment and needs-based design will ensure the venue continues to deliver quality arts and cultural experiences to the community for many generations to come.

Works are due to complete in April 2025. The venue will continue to be managed by Magna Vitae, registered charity and partner to East Linsey District Council.

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£4m Pool Redevelopment Opens in South Norfolk

British Paralympic swimmer Jessica-Jane Applegate and council Chair Sharon Blundell cut the ribbon at the opening of Diss Swim Centre, which has undergone extensive improvements to ensure the facility serves the community for many years to come.

Delivered by Alliance Leisure through the UK Leisure Framework (owned by Denbighshire Leisure), the project brought together a team of specialist suppliers, locally sourced where possible, combining quality craftsmanship with a focus on supporting the local economy.

Alliance Leisure assembled a team of leisure specific partners. These included Saunders Boston Architects, Real Consulting providing PM and QS services with Principal Contractor DDi Projects supported by KGO Electrical and Woodwards Mechanical. Long-standing council supplier and pool development experts, Hydrospec handled the pool reprofiling and plant room upgrade. Acting as development partner, Alliance Leisure provided a single point of contact for the council, overseeing the project from start to finish.

“Diss Swim Centre has been a cornerstone of the local community since the 1950s, originally as an outdoor lido,” explains Steven Peet, Strategic Leisure Development Manager at South Norfolk Council. “This significant investment has modernised the facility to meet the needs of today’s users, securing its future for many years to come.”

“Children and adults benefit from swimming lessons at the centre with thousands of families enjoying time together during our open swim sessions. With the adaptions to the pool and extended changing facilities we have improved the overall experience for all our visitors as well as increasing capacity for swimming sessions and classes. These improvements, alongside the previous PSDS energy efficiency works, have safeguarded the future of the facility.”

In the pool area, upgrades included reprofiling the main pool tank to enhance programming, making it ideal for lessons and classes—re-rendering and tiling, and modernising the pool plant to enhance water quality and additional equipment to improve accessibility. The changing areas were expanded into a larger, more accessible changing village with a new viewing area integrated to improve visibility for parents. Updates to the entrance lobby and reception area also deliver a more welcoming environment.

Prior to this phase of works, the council had also secured £1. 2 million from the government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme of PSDS funding to deliver carbon efficiencies to support the council in the achievement of its 2030 net cardon ambitions. These works were delivered directly by the council and included upgrades to the building fabric via cladding and insulation, the removal of fossil fuels from the site, the installation of Air Source Heat Pumps and solar panels on the roof.

Steven Peet continues:

It’s fantastic to see the community enjoying the upgraded facilities. This project came with unique challenges due to the site’s long history, with the pool having undergone multiple adaptations over the years. A lack of technical information and unforeseen issues, such as the need to replace defective flooring in the changing area, added complexity.

Alliance Leisure and the project team tackled every challenge with expertise, delivering cost-effective and timely solutions. Their experience was instrumental in supporting completing the works for our reopening date —something we could not have achieved with a less seasoned team.

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Construction Tees Off on Adventure Golf Course

Construction Tees Off on Adventure Golf Course

Work Underway for Walnuts Leisure Centre Transformation

Work Underway for Walnuts Leisure Centre Transformation

The multi-million-pound transformation of Walnuts Leisure Centre is progressing rapidly, with the swimming pool now drained as part of the ongoing strip-out work to prepare the site for a complete refurbishment.

Construction Partner Appointed on Trowbridge Leisure Centre Project

Construction Partner Appointed on Trowbridge Leisure Centre Project

Wiltshire Council has announced its construction partner, Pellikaan Construction, for the new Trowbridge Leisure Centre, which is being delivered by the Council’s development partner Alliance Leisure.

£13.7m New Leisure Centre Completes Ahead of Schedule in Shropshire

£13.7m New Leisure Centre Completes Ahead of Schedule in Shropshire

The much-anticipated Whitchurch Swimming & Fitness Centre has officially been completed, marking a significant milestone for the community.

Transformed Market Halls Open in Leek

Transformed Market Halls Open in Leek

Leek’s historic indoor market has opened to the public following a £3.4 million refurbishment, led by Alliance Leisure, designed to preserve its role at the heart of the Staffordshire Moorlands community for years to come.

Planning Permission Granted for Leisure Centre in Kingston

Planning Permission Granted for Leisure Centre in Kingston

The new leisure centre for Kingston town centre is one step closer to reality as planning permission has been granted for the project.

Cllr Alison Holt

Tom Fairey

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Boathouse Restoration Project Begins in the Lake District

Boathouse Restoration Project Begins in the Lake District

Work has begun on the Low Bank Ground Activity Centre in Coniston.

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Alliance Leisure Appointed to Lead Brighton Project

Alliance Leisure Appointed to Lead Momentous Brighton Project

Brighton & Hove City Council has selected Alliance Leisure to oversee the design and construction of a new sports and leisure facility, which will replace the outdated King Alfred Leisure Centre.

Work Begins On Pioneering ‘Cultural House’ In Skegness

Work Begins on Pioneering ‘Cultural House’ in Skegness

Alliance Leisure has begun the transformation of the historic Embassy Theatre in Skegness into one of the UK’s first Scandinavian-inspired ‘culture houses.’

Browse our completed projects

£4m Pool Redevelopment Opens in South Norfolk

£4m Pool Redevelopment Opens in South Norfolk

British Paralympic swimmer Jessica-Jane Applegate and council Chair Sharon Blundell cut the ribbon at the opening of Diss Swim Centre, which has undergone extensive improvements to ensure the facility serves the community for many years to come.

Browse our completed projects

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