A pre-construction contract has been signed with Willmott Dixon. This allows initial works to begin on the site of the new Cascades Leisure Centre.
The pre-construction phase is a significant milestone in the project. By enabling early engagement with a construction partner, it will help with the planning of logistics and site set up works, alongside the development of the technical design of the leisure centre.
Earlier this year, the green light was given for the allocation of £20 million from the government’s Levelling Up Fund. The money will be used to support a ‘hub and spoke’ model to improve health, wellbeing, employment and skills across the borough.
£17 million of the funding will be used to help replace the ageing Cascades Leisure Centre. The project will see a new, £42.9 million low-carbon building that can host regional events alongside an improved family-fun offer.
The remaining £3 million, will be used to deliver a range of initiatives within the borough’s urban areas, to improve public spaces, create new workspaces for small businesses, and accommodate new community uses.
Under the pre-contract agreement, Willmott Dixon will work with the project architects Space & Place on the final design and specification of the new centre.
They will also carry out several site surveys, including an asbestos survey of Regan’s Bar ahead of demolition of that building later this year.
The pre-contract agreement runs until August 2026. At this point a main contractor will be appointed to build the new leisure centre. The new centre is due to be completed in December 2028.
The existing Cascades Leisure Centre will remain open throughout the construction of its replacement.
Cllr John Burden, Leader of Gravesham Borough Council, said: “It’s good to have Wilmott Dixon on board for this important stage in the development of our new Cascades Leisure Centre.
“They will have an important role in achieving value while ensuring that the overall brief, vision, and intent of the leisure centre is not compromised.
“I know we are all committed to delivering a high-quality, energy-efficient, low-carbon centre that our residents can enjoy and be proud of for years to come.”
As part of the agreement, Willmott Dixon has committed to achieving social and economic benefits for Gravesham’s residents and businesses during the pre-construction phase. They will deliver on a social value plan which includes targets for jobs, local supply chain support, and engagement with local schools and colleges.
Richard Poulter, Managing Director Construction South at Willmott Dixon said: “We are proud to be working in partnership with Gravesham Borough Council to help shape the future of leisure provision in the borough.
“Signing this pre-construction contract marks a key step forward in bringing the vision for a modern, low-carbon, and inclusive Cascades Leisure Centre to life.
“Our team is committed to delivering not only high-quality design and construction expertise, but also meaningful social value through jobs, skills development, and community engagement.
We look forward to helping create a facility that supports the health and wellbeing of local people for generations to come.”
The Government funding for the new leisure centre was secured with the support of Gravesham’s MP, Lauren Sullivan. Who said: “This long-awaited new leisure centre at Cascades is being met with excitement from children across the borough, with the prospect of a new fun play pool as well as the opportunity for Gravesham’s children and young people to train and harness their talents in a training and then a regional standard pool.
“That’s as well as the exciting soft play which currently does not exist in Gravesham.
“This leisure centre will enable fun activities as well as being a new regional hub for many more sports. I cannot wait to see it being built and enjoyed by families and budding athletes alike.“