Work on new leisure centre in Morpeth to start soon

The development of a new state-of-the art leisure centre and community hub in Morpeth has taken another step forward with the appointment of the contractors.
An artist’s impression of the new leisure centre and community services hub in Morpeth.An artist’s impression of the new leisure centre and community services hub in Morpeth.
An artist’s impression of the new leisure centre and community services hub in Morpeth.

After a rigorous tender process, Willmott Dixon has been appointed as the official contractor to build the large facility.

The £21million scheme is being funded by Northumberland County Council and will be built at The Terrace site on Gas House Lane.

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It is hoped that work will start on site in November, with the centre complete and open to the public in summer 2022.

The facility will include a six-lane swimming pool with spectator gallery, a learner pool, a spa, a four-court sports hall, a new 100 station fitness suite, a dedicated cycling studio, large fitness studios, a café area and soft play.

The plans incorporate a new community services hub that will see the town’s library move back to its former home on Gas House Lane.

There will also be a customer service centre and a new adult learning provision with classrooms for STEM lessons and catering.

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County council leader Glen Sanderson said: “I am delighted that we are one step closer to creating outstanding sports, leisure and community facilities for Morpeth and the wider area.

“The new centre will be a real asset for the town and a wonderful place for residents and visitors to enjoy for many years to come.

“When work does commence, Willmott Dixon will be implementing strict social distancing to ensure the health and safety of its staff and that the wider community is not compromised in any way.

“All of the measures on the site will be compliant with Government guidelines and Public Health England guidance.”

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The new sports complex will be run by Active Northumberland, the charitable trust that manages leisure services across the county.

Its acting chief executive, Mark Warnes, said: “This modern new centre and the facilities within it have been designed so there will be something for all members of the local community to realise their fitness, lifestyle and sporting goals.”