£21 million Morpeth leisure centre takes major step forward

A building contractor has been appointed for a new £21 million leisure centre in Morpeth.

Designed by GT3 Architects, the mixed-use leisure scheme will be constructed by Willmott Dixon on behalf of Advance Northumberland, the economic regeneration arm of Northumberland County Council.

The complex will be operated by Active Northumberland, the charitable trust that manages leisure services across the county.

It aims to deliver a first-class leisure centre, library and community hub for the market town and is located on the edge of the town centre beside the River Wansbeck.

In addition to the Morpeth venture, GT3 Architects is also designing the £20 million Berwick leisure complex, which has already made progress with steelwork in place.

Paul Reed, associate director at GT3 Architects, said: “We send our warmest congratulations to Willmott Dixon and we look forward to working alongside an experienced team as Morpeth Leisure Centre progresses to this next, exciting phase.

“Providing a new base for the local library provision in the centre of town is an important development. It will enable everyone in the community to access learning in a modern setting.”

The Morpeth centre will also include a six-lane swimming pool with a gallery for spectators, spa facilities, a four-court sports hall, a 100-station fitness suite, a dedicated cycling studio, a café, fitness studios and soft play.

Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council, added: “We are one step closer to creating outstanding sports, leisure and community facilities for Morpeth and the wider area.

“The new centre will be a real asset for the town and a wonderful place for residents and visitors to enjoy for many years to come.”