Plans for a new leisure centre and swimming pool in Peterborough have taken a major step forward with the announcement that the Government will contribute £20 million to the project. The funding comes from the £240 million Growth Mission Fund, supporting local economic growth, subject to approval of a full business case. The focus key phrase Peterborough new leisure centre funding reflects both the investment and its importance for the city’s residents.
Council Leader Shabina Qayyum welcomed the announcement, saying: “This significant investment means it is full steam ahead with our plans and we will progress at pace to deliver a new facility as quickly as possible. A new swimming pool will benefit residents of all ages, supporting younger residents to learn how to swim and promoting health and wellbeing for everyone.”
Earlier in October, the council approved plans for an eight-lane, 25-metre main pool and fitness centre as the preferred option, following a feasibility study and consultation with stakeholders including city MPs, the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, ARU Peterborough, City of Peterborough Swimming Club, Friends of the Lido and Living Sport. Officers are now developing a detailed business plan for submission to the Government, CPCA, and other funders to secure the full £38 million required.
The design phase is underway with Alliance Leisure, specialists in national leisure developments, and a planning application is expected next year. If funding is fully secured, construction could begin in early 2027 with completion anticipated in summer 2028.
Local MPs and community leaders have praised the announcement. MP Andrew Pakes said: “Peterborough is the only one of the top ten fastest growing cities without a public indoor pool. Today’s news from the Chancellor means we can put that right.” Paul Bristow, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, added: “It’s another step towards the change our city centre needs. It’s important to get this pool delivered and keep pushing forward.”
ARU Peterborough Principal Professor Ross Renton highlighted the benefits for students, noting that new courses such as Exercise and Health Science could use the facilities, with opportunities for future programmes including Physiotherapy. Morgan Stevenson, co-chair of the City of Peterborough Swimming Club, said: “This £20 million commitment gets us halfway there… the city deserves a pool it can be proud of.”
The proposed facility will feature poolside and balcony seating, a 20-metre four-lane learner pool with moveable floor, café, softplay, health and wellbeing suite, community and health rooms, as well as a fitness suite with 150 stations and studios. The city centre location was chosen for accessibility and proximity to the Lido and other commercial advantages. Public consultation will follow next year, supported by social media polls to inform early design stages.
