Willmott Dixon joined local leaders and partners in Marple Memorial Park for a ceremonial ground breaking, celebrating start of construction on the new centre, which will open in 2026.

Funded in part by the Government’s Levelling Up Fund and procured via Procure Partnerships, the new hub will include a modern library, five-lane swimming pool, 60-station gym, café, and a new home for Marple Clinic — all designed to support active, healthy lifestyles and provide a much-needed boost to local services.

Cllr Mark Roberts, Deputy Leader of Stockport Council, said: “This is a major milestone for Marple — a project driven by local voices and delivered in partnership to meet the needs of residents now and for the future. The hub is a landmark investment in the future of our borough - it’s about more than just bricks and mortar. It’s about creating a vibrant, inclusive space that brings people together, supports healthier lifestyles, and strengthens our local economy.

Cllr Helen Foster-Grime, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Sport at Stockport Council, said: “The new hub will bring health, leisure and community services together under one roof, with real benefits for people of all ages. It’s a brilliant example of the kind of place-based investment we’re championing across Stockport.”

Darren Palmer, director for Willmott Dixon in the North, said:

“We share Stockport Council’s passion for ensuring this vibrant and innovative community hub creates opportunities for the people of Marple. In recently delivering Stockport Interchange and Viaduct Park, our team worked alongside incredible local organisations such as PURE College and we proud to be doing so again.

“To date on the project, we’ve created six new employment opportunities including for local people from barriered backgrounds. We’ve supported 47 apprentice weeks and delivered a bespoke skills and training ‘Building Lives Academy’ programme alongside HMP Styal resulting in two employment opportunities. We are also running our monthly free after-school Construction Club for children at All Saints Primary School and we have delivered 11 careers in construction sessions with local school and college students.”

Lisa Dodd-Mayne, Executive Director of Place, Sport England:

“Construction of the new Marple Community Hub getting underway is groundbreaking in more ways than one. The Marple Community Hub is a prime example of the smart way in which we’re investing in places across England to support more people to be physically active.

“Our investment will ensure that, on one site, communities across Stockport, will be able to access sport and leisure opportunities, NHS services, a library and community space. Importantly though, this work will also improve links and access to the surrounding memorial park and local canal network – providing many more informal opportunities to be active. Thus, regardless of how local residents want to move, there really will be something for everyone - no matter who they are or where they live.”

The event, hosted by Stockport Council and main contractor Willmott Dixon, featured speeches from key partners including Sport England, the NHS, Life Leisure and local councillors. Guests also toured the site where construction is now progressing.

Once complete, the Marple Community Hub will feature sustainable design, enhanced access for walking and cycling, and inclusive spaces to support wellbeing, community connection, and civic pride.