A new leisure and library complex in Bishop Auckland is due to open in 2027, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
Built on the site of the former Woodhouse Close Library, the new community hub will combine both services in a single location.
The £28.9 million project will incorporate swimming pools, fitness suites, a Move Hub, and community spaces.
Durham County Council provided the progress update ahead of a committee meeting next week, when councillors will be invited to debate the local authority’s plans.
The project will be delivered in two phases, with the new leisure centre due to open in summer 2027. New car parking and wider site landscaping are scheduled for early winter 2027.
Plans for the redevelopment were initially approved in November 2023 but have faced several delays after a previously appointed contractor entered administration and the discovery of a gas pipe.
Despite not achieving its initial target of starting work in late 2024, the local authority said progress on site has since been “really positive” with a ground-breaking event taking place in September 2025.
A report by Tony Hanson, corporate director of regeneration, economy and growth, added: “Although work on site has progressed well, a short delay was incurred due to the discovery of a large mains gas pipe which was uncovered to the north west corner of the site. Despite extensive investigation during the design stages and engagement with statutory service providers, the pipe discovered was not in the place identified on formal plans and therefore had to be safely managed and appropriately diverted.
“This clashed with the location for aspects of the new building’s foundations and has resulted in a minor programme delay. This won’t materially affect the programme overall and although this has resulted in a cost impact, this is manageable within the overall project budget and allocated contingencies.”
The newbuild facility is supported by £2.75 million of Sport England funding.
Councillor Joe Quinn, cabinet member for resources, investment and assets, previously said: “This project is being delivered as part of our Leisure Transformation Programme through which we have been creating modern and accessible facilities across our towns to encourage more residents to engage with leisure activities and live healthier lives.
“The new centre also supports our wider ambition to build better communities and thriving towns through the provision of up-to-date facilities.”
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
