Exciting progress is underway in the creation of the new Cranleigh Leisure Centre, with Willmott Dixon selected as the preferred bidder - Waverley's top choice to carry out the project - and construction expected to begin next summer.
Portfolio Holder for Planning and Development at Waverley Borough Council, Councillor Liz Townsend said: “We’re delighted to be moving forward with this exciting next phase, working together with Willmott Dixon to agree final designs, costs and timelines. The new leisure centre is a significant development for Cranleigh and the surrounding villages.”
Willmott Dixon brings extensive experience in delivering sustainable community infrastructure, including buildings like Eclipse Leisure Centre, Hackbridge Primary School and Harris Academy Sutton.
Councillor Townsend added: “Sustainability is at the heart of this project, and partnering with a contractor who shares our ambition for carbon neutrality by 2030 is absolutely vital. Together, we’re creating a truly groundbreaking Passivhaus leisure centre shaped by our residents’ feedback and built to stand as a community asset for many years to come.”
Planning permission for the new leisure centre was granted last spring and came with several conditions that took time to resolve. During this period, market conditions changed significantly, prompting a thorough review of the project. As a result, the timeline has been revised: construction is now expected to begin next summer, with the new leisure centre scheduled to open in winter 2027.
Neighbours will get updates on what to expect in due course. The council will keep everyone informed and work with the community throughout the project.
The new build will be a modern, inclusive and environmentally responsible facility created to support healthier lifestyles for all ages and abilities.
When completed, the centre will offer:
Everyone Active will continue to manage the new leisure centre on behalf of Waverley Borough Council.
Steve Little, Everyone Active Contract Manager said: “We’re proud to be supporting the development of the brand new Cranleigh Leisure Centre – a facility that will truly put community health and wellbeing first. The new centre will offer something for everyone, from families and children to dedicated fitness enthusiasts, and we look forward to helping bring this fantastic vision to life.”
Visit our project website www.waverley.gov.uk/clcnewbuild to find out more about the new leisure centre, including visuals of the design, accessibility, sustainability, the timeline, our FAQ and more.
Image: Visual of the new Cranleigh Leisure Centre.