Willmott Dixon has secured a £38 million contract to build a new sport and leisure centre at Bar End in Winchester.

The facility will replace River Park Leisure Centre and construction is scheduled to start next year, with completion in 2021.

Designed by architects Stride Treglown, features include a 50-metre swimming pool, a separate teaching pool with movable floor, an eight court sport hall, four squash courts, 200 gym stations, two large studios and one spin studio. There will also be a hydrotherapy suite and eight treatment rooms along with a clip and climb facility.

Cllr Lisa Griffiths said: "This is an exciting announcement showing real progress is being made to deliver the new sport and leisure centre. In practical terms, it means Willmott Dixon and the architects can now shape the design and share their considerable experience of delivering these types of facilities.

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"Appointing early allows us to hit the ground running once planning consent is granted and work can get started. The council has selected this contractor to ensure we can deliver the project on time and to budget when we have the planning green light. Failure to do this could lead to delays in delivery of what is a top quality facility to the people of Winchester district."

Richard Pouter, Managing Director at Willmott Dixon, said: "We are delighted to be Winchester City Council’s contractor of choice for this fantastic project. This new facility will create an inspiring and inclusive physical environment, serving all residents.

"We are proud to be part of the team delivering more than just a sports and leisure facility but instead a scheme that will have a long standing and lasting legacy on those who use it and the environment it sits within."

(LM/MH)