WORK has officially started on the massive £12.7million revamp of Droitwich Spa Leisure.
The scheme has been funded by Wychavon District Council and, following the completion of initial enabling works, the main project is now under way.
Designed by Watson Batty Architects and delivered by main contractor Speller Metcalfe, the redevelopment promises a major transformation of the much-loved community sports and leisure centre.
The new-look centre will feature a brand new 8metre by 12metre learner pool, housed within a modern extension which also includes a welcoming new reception and cafe area.
The addition will allow a full programme of swimming lessons to be run without impacting the main pool’s timetable, helping residents of all ages to develop swimming as a vital life skill.
Gillian Dunster, Alliance Leisure’s business development manager, said: “This refurbishment is about more than bricks and mortar – it’s about growing confidence in the water, removing barriers to activity and futureproofing a vital community asset.
“We’re proud to support Wychavon’s net-zero ambitions while enhancing the experience for every visitor.”
Other features
There will also be an extensive modernisation across the centre with upgrades including the renovation of changing areas, three flexible-use treatment rooms being added and improved mechanical and electrical systems.
A key focus is sustainability, with air source heat pumps and solar panels helping to boost energy efficiency and support the council’s target of achieving net zero by 2030.
Coun Dan Birch, Wychavon’s Executive Board Member for Wellbeing, Social Mobility and Transformation, said: “I’m delighted to see how quickly work is progressing on delivering this vital upgrade to Droitwich Spa Leisure Centre.
“You can already see the foundations of the learner pool begin to take shape and I’m excited to watch the scheme develop over the coming months.
“This is part of our multi-million-pound investment in leisure and wellbeing in the town.
“We are committed to progressing these schemes at pace to ensure the full leisure offering in Droitwich is delivered in a timely manner for the benefit of our residents.”
Timeframe
The first phase of the refurbishment – covering the ‘dry’ side of the centre, including the gym and changing rooms – is now well.
Excavation for the new learner pool is under way, with early phases expected to be completed before Christmas.
Work will continue through 2026, with the fully refurbished centre due to reopen later in the year.
Speller Metcalfe’s regional director, Mark Hudgeon, said: “We are delighted to be bringing the Droitwich Spa Leisure Centre redevelopment to life.
“Working closely with Alliance Leisure and the council, we are committed to delivering a facility that the local community can enjoy for years to come, combining modern design with sustainable solutions.”
Speller Metcalfe has a strong track record working with Alliance Leisure as a delivery partner for the UK Leisure Framework, owned by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd (DLL).
Current projects include Brough Leisure Centre in Leek, Thorne Leisure Centre in Doncaster, and Haden Hill Leisure Centre in Cradley Heath.
As a separate contract, the Droitwich project will also see upgrades and expansion to the car park and a new skatepark and pump track installed, further supporting Wychavon’s multi-million-pound investment in leisure, health, and wellbeing in Droitwich Spa.
