Plans for a new water and leisure complex to replace the Aquadrome are being firmed up as Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council prepares to start the formal search for a leisure specialist to design, build and run it. 

Work has been progressing on the proposals since the council’s decision-making Cabinet, in February, approved the range of new facilities and how the new energy-efficient centre to replace the council-owned Aquadrome would be delivered, subject to getting planning permission.

Following consultation, facilities look set to include a 25-metre eight-lane competition pool, 20-metre four-lane teaching pool, leisure waters with flumes, a 150-station gym, three studios and a spin studio, an indoor clip and climb, indoor adventure soft play, party rooms and café.

And proposals for the new complex would see it moved to a more prominent central site at Basingstoke Leisure Park on land currently used for car parking next to Buzz Bingo, subject to getting planning permission. 

The move would allow the current Aquadrome to remain open for users to benefit from the facilities until the new water and leisure complex is ready.

The council is investigating how car parking could be better located and provided to support the new complex and other existing facilities and free up more space for sites for new attractions and improvements.

Cabinet Member for Major Projects and Regeneration Cllr Onnalee Cubitt said: “Replacing our much-loved Aquadrome is a key priority for this Cabinet. Investing in leisure and wellbeing activities for our residents is a key priority for us.

“The Leisure Park should have been reenergised and revitalised by now. We will deliver a brand-new energy-efficient facility to meet your needs.

“You have been promised a new Aquadrome for a long time. This Cabinet knew it was essential to approve plans for this fantastic modern complex to be built as soon as possible. We have done this.

“Moving the new Aquadrome to a more central location on the Leisure Park will ensure it remains a key offer. Most important of all, it will enable residents to continue to have access to the current Aquadrome whilst the new facility is built. We can do this because we own the Aquadrome.

“Our decision to build this new Aquadrome, alongside finalising a deal with Great Wolf Resorts, subject to planning permission being granted, has prompted super exciting discussions with other leisure operators wanting to come to Basingstoke with new attractions. We are already exploring some amazing opportunities with the leisure industry. Basingstoke is a great destination.

“Council officers are progressing the delivery of this fantastic new facility approved by Cabinet and are in the process of finding a leisure specialist to design, get planning permission for, build and run the new centre. A planning application for the new Aquadrome will be submitted in summer 2026 and the facility could open in 2029."

 

For more information, visit www.basingstoke.gov.uk/leisure-park-aquadrome