First steelworks put into place at £20m North East leisure development

Work on a £20m leisure complex has hit the next level as the first steelwork is put in place.

The mixed-use leisure scheme, which is in Berwick, has been designed by Newcastle-based GT3 Architects, and is now well underway with the first steelwork about to be put in place.

The £20m complex will feature a five-lane, 25 metre swimming pool, a teaching pool, leisure pool and spa facilities.

It will also include a sports hall, indoor bowls, fitness studios, cafe and a sensory room.

It is a sister project to the recently approved £21m leisure centre in Morpeth, with both projects being funded and led by Northumberland County Council.

Paul Reed, associate director at GT3 Architects, said: “With the announcement just through that our design for Morpeth Leisure Centre has been approved, it is very satisfying to see the great progress that has been made in the construction of its sister project at Berwick.

“This is going to be an absolutely fantastic facility for local residents and another significant North East investment project aimed at positioning the town as a tourist destination of choice.

“Despite restrictions faced by the government lockdown, the work has commenced in stages following planning permission in September 2019 with concrete works for the swimming pool now at an advanced stage.

“Crucially, the first steelwork is going up in July and the centre is expected to be completed during the summer of 2021.”

Northumberland County Councillor Cath Homer, cabinet member with responsibility for leisure, said: “GT3 Architects was appointed based on a balance of price, quality of work and the experience of its team.

“Following the easing of lockdown restrictions, our contractors are back working on site at Berwick while implementing strict social distancing to ensure the health and safety of staff and the wider community is not compromised in any way.

“The new centre, with state-of-the-art facilities, will provide fantastic opportunities for fun, fitness and relaxation for residents and visitors to the town.”

Mark Warnes, acting CEO, Active Northumberland, said: “The fantastic new development at Berwick will ensure we continue to support our local communities in getting people active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

“With the range of facilities which have been designed with this vision in mind, it will enable us to open up more activities for residents and visitors to Berwick and its surrounding areas to enjoy for many years to come.”