Willmott Dixon has started construction on a new leisure centre and healthcare hub at Bransbury Park in Portsmouth, delivering modern swimming, fitness and primary care facilities for communities in the south-east of the city.

The project, procured via the Southern Construction Framework (SCF), will see Willmott Dixon deliver a two-storey facility featuring a 25-metre four-lane swimming pool, learner pool, 65-station fitness suite and two group exercise studios, alongside new healthcare provision. An improved artificial turf pitch and floodlit multi-use games area with free public access will also be created at the north of the site.

Scheduled for completion in winter 2027, the centre forms part of Portsmouth City Council’s wider investment of more than £40 million in sport and leisure facilities over the past decade, reflecting its commitment to supporting the mental and physical wellbeing of residents.

A groundbreaking ceremony held outside the neighbouring Eastney Community Centre brought together Willmott Dixon and Portsmouth City Council representatives to mark the start of works on the flagship project.

The project is being delivered in partnership with Portsmouth City Council, GT3 Architects, Mace, and the NHS.

Richard Poulter, Managing Director for Willmott Dixon in the South:

“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. 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:

“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):

“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 is already well under way, with Year 5 pupils from Milton Park Primary School contributing artwork that will be displayed on the site hoarding in the coming months.

Leisure Sector Expertise

The appointment reinforces Willmott Dixon’s position as one of the UK’s leading contractors in leisure facility delivery, having completed more than 160 leisure centres in the past decade. In Barnes, Willmott Dixon is working with the NHS on another mixed-use development, London River Academy, that brings together health and education on a co-located site.

The company is also currently delivering Leighton Linslade Leisure Centre in Bedfordshire and the heritage refurbishment of Seymour Leisure Centre in Westminster, and was recently appointed preferred contractor for the £65 million transformation of the King Alfred Leisure Centre on Brighton’s seafront.