Work to build a new £21m state-of-the-art leisure centre and community hub in Morpeth is progressing at pace and is on track to open to the public in early 2023. 
 

Contractors Willmott Dixon are in week 81 of a 100-week programme with the latest phase of work involving the installation of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels on the roof of the centre. 

The PV panels will convert light to electricity which will be used to help run the leisure centre’s fans, pumps, lighting and new heat pumps. 

The electricity generated will dramatically reduce the amount of electricity being drawn from the grid and will help to reduce the carbon footprint of the new centre; It is expected to run with a 69.7% carbon emission reduction per year, compared to the current Riverside Leisure Centre. 

Other high efficiency building materials that are being installed include high density insulated cladding, high energy-efficient glazing with thermal screening, air source heat pumps which use outside heat to help power the buildings and LED lighting throughout. The ventilation systems at the leisure centre will also use the latest ‘smart’ technology to increase control and efficiency through the building management system.  

The new county council funded leisure centre will incorporate a six-lane swimming pool with spectator gallery, a learner pool, spa facilities, a four-court sports hall, a new 100 station gym, a dedicated spinning studio, two fitness studios, a cafe area and soft play.  

It will also incorporate a new community services hub which will see the town’s library move back to its former home on Gas House Lane, a customer service centre and a new adult learning facility with classrooms for STEM learning and catering 

Northumberland County Councillor Jeff Watson, cabinet member for healthy lives has recently paid a visit to the site on Gas House Lane, to see the progress that has been made.  He said: 

“This amazing centre is really starting to come to life and is set to provide a fantastic sport and leisure environment for Morpeth and its surrounding communities. 

“The measures we are putting in place during the construction of this new centre will help to significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions and are another step towards the council’s ambitious plans to be carbon net zero by 2030.” 

Local ward member David Bawn added: 

“We made a commitment to Morpeth residents to provide a top-quality leisure facility and it’s great to see it becoming a reality.  I’m impressed with the progress we’ve seen on site in recent months. We can now clearly see what a fantastic building this is going to be.” 

Mark Warnes, chief executive of Active Northumberland said: 

"It’s really exciting to see the leisure centre start to take shape. It will be bright, modern, accessible and inclusive for all ages and abilities. 

“I look forward to the day when the doors to these first-class facilities open and we can welcome the public in.” 
 

The new centre has been designed by GT3 Architect. Willmott Dixon is the official contractor and Advance Northumberland is overseeing the project management.