‘Much-loved’ Doncaster leisure complex set for multi-million-pound refurbishment works

A multi-million-pound investment to fund significant refurbishment at The Dome has taken a step forward, having been approved by City of Doncaster Council’s Cabinet on 7 February.

The £14.4m will enable a revamp of the ‘much-loved’ lagoons, and entrance area, as well as adding to the features of the popular building. This follows the announcement of The Dome as a Grade II Listed Building last year.

Doncaster Dome has been well visited by families from across the region since the venue opened in 1989. Over the years, investment has continued to keep it fit for purpose, but the building still needs more investment, so this is much more about modernising the venue to service future generations to come. 

Cllr Nigel Ball, Cabinet Member for Public Health, commented: “Our culture and leisure centres are key to supporting the health and wellbeing of residents in Doncaster.  

“I am delighted with the refurbishment plans and our dedication as a council to continue to champion tourist attractions, and community hubs like the Dome. This investment in leisure is vital and is a testament to our dedication to health and leisure at a time where other councils are closing venues.”  

Chief Executive of Doncaster Culture and Leisure Trust, Michael Hart, added: “We are thrilled that the City of Doncaster Council’s cabinet approved the funding for the refurbishment of the Lagoons at Doncaster Dome.”

The investment in the venue will see the Lagoons area closed for up to a year. During the closure of the lagoons the ice rink, gym and other services provided at the Dome will be open while leisure swimming will be available through other pool venues across the city, Doncaster Culture Leisure Trust will be programming sessions to minimise disruption. 

These plans support City of Doncaster Council’s continued development of the culture and leisure offer across the city and add to the four-year programme of significant capital investment (£18m) to its leisure facility stock which began in 2020. 

The investment forms part of the draft budget proposals which are subject to approval at the full council meeting on 26 February 2024.