Construction Begins on Bransbury Park Leisure Centre in Portsmouth
Willmott Dixon has officially commenced construction on a new leisure centre and healthcare hub at Bransbury Park in Portsmouth, aimed at providing modern swimming, fitness, and primary care facilities for the local community in the south-east of the city. The project, which has been procured through the Southern Construction Framework (SCF), will feature a two-storey facility that includes a 25-metre four-lane swimming pool, a learner pool, a 65-station fitness suite, and two group exercise studios, along with enhanced healthcare services.
In addition to the leisure facilities, the development will also see the creation of an improved artificial turf pitch and a floodlit multi-use games area, both of which will be accessible to the public at no charge, located at the northern part of the site. The centre is scheduled for completion in winter 2027 and is part of Portsmouth City Council’s broader investment exceeding £40 million in sport and leisure facilities over the last decade, underscoring its commitment to the mental and physical wellbeing of its residents.
A groundbreaking ceremony took place outside the Eastney Community Centre, attended by representatives from Willmott Dixon and Portsmouth City Council, marking the official start of this flagship project. The initiative is being executed in collaboration with Portsmouth City Council, GT3 Architects, Mace, and the NHS.
Richard Poulter, Managing Director for Willmott Dixon in the South, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “We are delighted to be starting work on this important community facility for Portsmouth. Drawing on our experience of delivering more than 160 leisure centres nationwide – including over 100 swimming pools – we bring proven expertise in creating high-quality, accessible facilities that enhance local health and wellbeing.” He added, “We will ensure that creating opportunities for the local community is at the heart of this project, working closely with local suppliers and supporting employment and training pathways throughout the construction phase.”
Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, remarked on the significance of the project, saying, “This is an exciting moment for the Bransbury Park project and for the communities who will benefit from this much-needed centre. The start of work means we’re one step closer to delivering a modern, accessible facility with swimming, fitness and healthcare provision. We apologise in advance that construction will cause some temporary disruption, and we are grateful to residents for their patience while we build a centre that will serve generations to come.”
James Wright, Head of the Southern Construction Framework (South East and London), highlighted the importance of the project, stating, “SCF is proud to support Portsmouth City Council and Willmott Dixon in delivering a facility that will have a lasting positive impact on the Bransbury Park community. This project reflects exactly why the framework exists – to enable public sector partners to deliver high-quality, sustainable places that enhance local wellbeing.”
Community engagement initiatives are already underway, with Year 5 pupils from Milton Park Primary School contributing artwork that will be displayed on the site hoarding in the upcoming months.
The commencement of this project further solidifies Willmott Dixon’s status as a leading contractor in leisure facility construction, having completed over 160 leisure centres in the past decade. The company is also involved in other significant projects, including the London River Academy in Barnes, which integrates health and education, and is currently working on the Leighton Linslade Leisure Centre in Bedfordshire, as well as the heritage refurbishment of Seymour Leisure Centre in Westminster. Recently, Willmott Dixon was appointed as the preferred contractor for the £65 million transformation of the King Alfred Leisure Centre on Brighton’s seafront.
