A formal search for a partner to deliver a new water and leisure complex to replace the Aquadrome has been launched.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has started inviting initial proposals from leisure specialists interested in designing, building and running the new energy-efficient centre to replace the council-owned Aquadrome, subject to getting planning permission, as part of a competitive procurement process.

The search is the latest milestone in the project after the council’s decision-making Cabinet approved the range of new facilities and how the new centre would be delivered, in February.

Leisure specialists are being invited to submit first stage proposals by Friday 20 December. Following detailed work with short-listed suppliers that demonstrate the relevant interest, experience and capability to deliver the project, it is anticipated that a preferred partner would be identified, approved by Council and awarded with the contract in May 2026.

As well as delivering the new water and leisure complex, the procurement exercise will include 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 to re-provide the facilities currently on offer at the site, following an in-principle deal with Great Wolf Resorts which, subject to planning permission, paves the way for it to build a new indoor water park resort on the land.

Following previous consultation, facilities at the new complex look set to include a 25-metre eight-lane competition pool, 20-metre four-lane teaching pool, leisure waters with flumes, a 150-station gym, three studios and a spin studio, an indoor clip and climb or similar adventure-style activity, indoor adventure soft play, party rooms and café.

And proposals for the new complex would see it moved to a more prominent central site at Basingstoke Leisure Park on land currently used for car parking next to Buzz Bingo, subject to getting planning permission. 

The move would allow the current Aquadrome to remain open for users to benefit from the facilities until the new water and leisure complex is ready.

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.”

For more information, visit www.basingstoke.gov.uk/leisure-park-aquadrome

November 2024