Construction is officially underway on the £20 million Marple Community Hub, a major development that will bring cutting-edge leisure, health, and library facilities to the heart of the town.

A ceremonial groundbreaking was held recently in Marple Memorial Park to mark the start of the project. The event was attended by main contractor Willmott Dixon, local councillors, partners and representatives from the NHS, Sport England and Life Leisure. The new centre is expected to open in 2026.

Funded in part by the Government’s Levelling Up Fund and procured via the Procure Partnerships framework, the hub will deliver a five-lane swimming pool, 60-station gym, modern library, café, and a new home for Marple Clinic. Designed as a one-stop community facility, the centre will promote healthier lifestyles, social connection and improved local services.

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Darren Palmer, Director for Willmott Dixon in the North,said: "We share Stockport Council’s passion for ensuring this vibrant and innovative community hub creates opportunities for the people of Marple.

"In recently delivering Stockport Interchange and Viaduct Park, our team worked alongside incredible local organisations such as PURE College and we proud to be doing so again.

"To date on the project, we've created six new employment opportunities including for local people from barriered backgrounds. We've supported 47 apprentice weeks and delivered a bespoke skills and training 'Building Lives Academy' programme alongside HMP Styal resulting in two employment opportunities.

"We are also running our monthly free after-school Construction Club for children at All Saints Primary School and we have delivered 11 careers in construction sessions with local school and college students."

Once complete, the Marple Community Hub will feature sustainable building design, improved access for walking and cycling, and inclusive spaces designed to support wellbeing, connection and civic pride.