Construction starts on new leisure centre and library
THE creation of a new leisure centre and library for Bishop Auckland has reached its first major
milestone.
Durham County Council has held an official ground-breaking ceremony to mark the start of
construction of the town’s new leisure centre and library, which will see the current facilities
replaced with a new, modern community hub. When complete, the new venue will feature a fully
integrated library space; two accessible swimming pools; a cutting-edge gym and two group exercise
studios; a Move Hub with power-assisted equipment; a sauna and steam room; a soft play centre;
and a café.
Enabling works have been ongoing since the summer to prepare the site, which included the
demolition of Woodhouse Close Library, and work will now start on the new build.
Cllr Joe Quinn, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for resources, investment and assets,
said: “We’re delighted to be moving forward with the new leisure centre and library for Bishop
Auckland, with the project entering its next phase of development and work officially starting on the
new building.
“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.”
Woodhouse Closure Leisure Centre remains open to the public while works are ongoing. While
Woodhouse Close Library has now been demolished, a click-and-collect library service is available at
Woodhouse Close Leisure Centre.
Residents can continue to access full services at nearby libraries including Bishop Auckland Town
Hall, Shildon, and Coundon.
The project is funded by the council with a £2.75 million contribution from Sport England.
Construction is expected to be completed in 2027. Residents and customers will be kept updated as
the works progresses.
