Major milestone reached for new Cranleigh Leisure Centre

Willmott Dixon has signed a Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA) with Waverley Borough Council, marking a significant milestone in the delivery of the new Cranleigh Leisure Centre.

The agreement follows Willmott Dixon’s appointment as preferred contractor and begins a detailed planning phase that will see the project team work collaboratively to finalise the design, programme and construction approach ahead of work starting on site in early 2027. The new facility is expected to open in autumn 2028.

Designed to the internationally recognised Passivhaus standard, Cranleigh Leisure Centre is expected to reduce operational energy demand by around 60% compared with a typical leisure centre, cutting carbon emissions and helping to shield the facility from future energy price rises. The result will be a high-performance, high quality community building that is comfortable, healthy and economical to operate for decades to come.

Throughout the pre-construction phase, Willmott Dixon will continue to work closely with Waverley Borough Council, project partners and operator Everyone Active to refine the scheme and ensure it delivers maximum value for the community.

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

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.”

GT3 has been appointed as the architect for the new Cranleigh Leisure Centre, bringing its People Architecture approach and expertise in Passivhaus leisure design to the project.

Marta Subh Lopez, Director at GT3:

“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.”

The project reflects Willmott Dixon’s extensive experience in delivering community and leisure facilities across the UK, combining sustainable construction practices with a strong focus on social value, local engagement and long-term community impact.

During the pre-construction phase, the team will continue to develop plans for construction logistics, including arrangements to minimise disruption and maintain access and parking provision throughout the build programme.

Once complete, the new Cranleigh Leisure Centre will provide a modern facility designed to serve local residents for decades to come while supporting the long-term vitality of the village.