There are high hopes that a new water and leisure centre could open by 2029, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has said.
Plans for the complex, to replace the Aquadrome, are being prepared ahead of the search for a leisure specialist to design, build and run it.
Following consultation, facilities 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, indoor adventure soft play, party rooms and café.
READ MORE: Basingstoke Aquadrome users welcome plans for new complex
Cabinet Member for Major Projects and Regeneration Councillor Onnalee Cubitt said: “Replacing our much-loved Aquadrome is a key priority for this Cabinet. Investing in leisure and well-being activities for our residents is a key priority for us.
“The Leisure Park should have been re-energised and revitalised by now. We will deliver a brand-new energy-efficient facility to meet your needs.
“You have been promised a new Aquadrome for a long time. This Cabinet knew it was essential to approve plans for this fantastic modern complex to be built as soon as possible. We have done this."
Work has been progressing on the proposals since the council’s decision-making cabinet, in February, approved the range of new facilities and how the new energy-efficient centre to replace the council-owned Aquadrome would be delivered, subject to getting planning permission.
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.
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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.
The council is investigating how car parking could be better located and provided to support the new complex and other existing facilities and free up more space for sites for new attractions and improvements.
Cllr Cubitt added: “Moving the new Aquadrome to a more central location on the Leisure Park will ensure it remains a key offer. Most important of all, it will enable residents to continue to have access to the current Aquadrome whilst the new facility is built. We can do this because we own the Aquadrome.
“Our decision to build this new Aquadrome, alongside finalising a deal with Great Wolf Resorts, subject to planning permission being granted, has prompted super exciting discussions with other leisure operators wanting to come to Basingstoke with new attractions. We are already exploring some amazing opportunities with the leisure industry. Basingstoke is a great destination.
“Council officers are progressing the delivery of this fantastic new facility approved by Cabinet and are in the process of finding a leisure specialist to design, get planning permission for, build and run the new centre. A planning application for the new Aquadrome will be submitted in summer 2026 and the facility could open in 2029."
For more information, visit www.basingstoke.gov.uk/leisure-park-aquadrome
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