press release: Places Leisure
Places Leisure named as preferred bidder for new leisure centre in Basingstoke
The first look at the new energy-efficient water and leisure complex to replace the Aquadrome in Basingstoke has been revealed, marking a major milestone for the town’s leisure park.
Following an extensive search for a game-changing partner and subject to contracts being signed in May, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has announced Places Leisure as the preferred bidder to take forward plans for the new state-of-the-art facility.
Shaped by residents’ feedback, facilities look set to deliver thrills and fitness for all, including a 25-metre eight-lane competition pool, 20-metre four-lane teaching pool, leisure waters with flumes, a 150-station gym, three group exercise studios, a cycling studio, indoor play activities, party rooms and café.
Places Leisure, part of the PfP Group, which is the UK’s leading social enterprise, is also proposing further investment to bring even more high-quality facilities to ensure the complex keeps up with the latest leisure trends. This will include a luxury health suite, Reformer Pilates studio and padel tennis courts.
Subject to planning permission, the new action-packed complex will move to a prime spot in the centre of the leisure park on land next to Buzz Bingo. This will allow the current Aquadrome to remain open until the next-generation centre is ready.
Cabinet member for major projects and regeneration Cllr Onnalee Cubitt said: “We’re laser-focused on delivering the ultimate energy-efficient leisure attraction that our residents will rave about and doing it as fast as we can. As well as creating a fantastic destination, we are investing in the long-term health and wellbeing of everyone in our borough.
“Appointing a delivery partner is a huge step forward in bringing our vision to life. We are looking forward to working closely with Places Leisure who are just as passionate as we are about creating an ultra-modern water and leisure complex that we will all be proud of.
“Transforming our leisure park into a must-visit hotspot and bringing fresh vibes for young people in our borough is so important to us and we are looking at other improvements that can be made, including opportunities for adrenaline-pumping leisure activities and attractions.”
Dan Walker, business development director at Places Leisure said: “We are thrilled to be named as the preferred bidder for this incredible project as well as taking over the operation and management of the golf facility in the town and Tadley Health and Fitness Centre.
“The new landmark leisure destination is an investment in health and wellbeing for the entire community. Beyond providing modern facilities for people to be more physically active, this centre will be a welcoming and inclusive space where people of all ages can connect, learn new skills and come together.
“We are excited to bring our experience in creating high-quality, community-focused facilities to this area. We look forward to working closely with local partners, colleagues, residents and community groups to shape a facility that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of the area.”
A planning application for the new Aquadrome is expected to be submitted in 2026 and, subject to approval, the facility could open in 2029.
As well as progressing plans for the new water and leisure complex, Places Leisure will take over the management of the Aquadrome, Basingstoke Golf Centre and Tadley Health and Fitness Centre from January 2027.
For more information, visit www.basingstoke.gov.uk/leisure-park-aquadrome
Dan Walker, business development director
Tatiana Hagan, finance director
Tom Goodhand, operations director
Keiron Butcher, IT director
Keith Evans, director of safety and risk
Our services have something for everyone no matter their life stage. We have swimming lessons for both adults and children, support sessions for wellbeing groups, gym classes for adults, and several tailored programmes which are helping to make physical activity more accessible to all.
