Plans advance for energy-efficient leisure centre

Plans for a new leisure centre in Surrey have taken a significant step forward following the signing of a pre-construction agreement.

Construction firm Willmott Dixon has signed a Pre-Construction Services Agreement with Waverley Borough Council for the new Cranleigh Leisure Centre, following its appointment as preferred contractor.

The agreement will see the project team finalise designs, construction plans and timelines ahead of work starting in early 2027, with the facility expected to open in autumn 2028.

Designed by architects GT3 to meet internationally recognised Passivhaus standards, the centre is expected to use around 60 per cent less operational energy than a typical leisure facility, reducing carbon emissions and running costs.

Willmott Dixon will work alongside the council, project partners and operator Everyone Active to refine the scheme and minimise disruption during construction.

Once complete, the centre will provide modern leisure facilities for local residents while supporting the village’s long-term sustainability and community wellbeing.

Richard Poulter, managing director for Willmott Dixon in the South, said: “We’re delighted to be taking the next step in delivering a new leisure centre for Cranleigh. 

“Facilities like this sit at the heart of communities. 

“They bring people together, support healthier lifestyles and create spaces that can be enjoyed by residents of all ages.

“Over the coming months we’ll be working closely with Waverley Borough Council and project partners to develop the design and delivery plans, ensuring the scheme provides the best possible outcome for the community. 

“From creating local opportunities during construction to delivering a high-quality, sustainable facility, we’re committed to leaving a positive legacy that extends far beyond the build itself.”

Marta Subh Lopez, director at GT3, added: “Reaching this milestone brings us a step closer to creating a welcoming leisure centre for Cranleigh. 

“Our People Architecture approach puts the community at the heart of the design, combining comfortable, accessible spaces that support health and wellbeing with Passivhaus principles to keep long-term energy demand low. 

“We look forward to working with the project team to bring that vision to life.”

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