Search for Partner to Develop New Water and Leisure Complex in Basingstoke
Image: Courtesy of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council
(eap) The official search for a partner to build a new water and leisure complex to replace the Aquadrome in Basingstoke, Hampshire (UK) is underway. Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council is seeking initial bids from leisure specialists interested in designing, building and operating the new energy-efficient centre to replace the council-owned Aquadrome, subject to planning permission being granted, as part of a competitive procurement process. Until Friday, December 20th, leisure professionals and companies can submit their proposals for the first phase. It is expected that a preferred partner will be selected, approved by the council and commissioned by May 2026.
In addition to the construction of the new water and leisure complex, the procurement process also includes the management of the council’s existing leisure facilities in the borough. This includes the management of Basingstoke Golf Centre, while the council continues to explore options for the provision of the facilities currently offered on the site, following an agreement in principle with Great Wolf Resorts which, subject to planning permission, paves the way for the construction of a new indoor water park on the site.
Following a previous consultation, facilities at the new complex are expected to include a 25-metre competition pool with eight lanes, a 20-metre teaching pool with four lanes, a leisure pool with waterslides, a 150-station gym, three studios and a spinning studio, an indoor climbing activity, an indoor soft play attraction, party rooms and a café.
The proposals for the new complex include its relocation to a more central site in Basingstoke Leisure Park, on land that is currently used as a car park next to Buzz Bingo, subject to planning permission being granted. The move would allow the current Aquadrome to remain open to users until the new water and leisure complex is completed.
Cabinet Member for Major Projects and Regeneration Cllr Onnalee Cubitt said: “Replacing our much-loved Aquadrome continues to be a key priority for us and we are delivering on our commitment to build a brand new leisure complex that our residents deserve, as part of a massive investment in our borough’s leisure and wellbeing activities. We have been working tirelessly to progress the delivery of this fantastic new facility as quickly as we can. I am super excited that we have reached this important milestone to find a partner with specialist experience to work with us and deliver a new, modern and energy efficient complex that our residents can be proud of and enjoy for years to come.” ■
