A landmark leisure facility in central London is receiving a substantial £42m renovation.
- Westminster City Council awarded a significant contract to Willmott Dixon for the Seymour Centre’s restoration.
- The leisure centre’s renovation involves extensive upgrades, including enhanced wheelchair accessibility and a revamped sports hall.
- The project forms part of a broader strategy by Westminster City Council to rejuvenate community spaces.
- Scheduled for completion in 2026, this initiative aligns with the council’s sustainability goals.
In a major development for central London, the historical Seymour Centre in Marylebone is set for a comprehensive £42 million update. Westminster City Council has engaged renowned construction firm Willmott Dixon to execute the significant restoration project. The centre, a Grade II listed building dating back to the 1930s, will receive a new lease of life while preserving its architectural heritage.
The scope of the renovation is extensive and includes the installation of a new floor in the main sports hall, which will be designed to accommodate wheelchair users. This enhancement ensures that the facility is more inclusive and accessible to all members of the community.
A key element of the project is the refurbishment of the sports facilities, including the addition of a new gym in the basement. Moreover, the revamped leisure centre will now house the Marylebone Library across two floors, providing a permanent home for the local community’s literary resources.
The project also focuses on improving air circulation and ventilation, crucial for enhancing user comfort and reducing carbon emissions. In line with Westminster City Council’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2030, these improvements are pivotal.
To further enhance its offering, the centre will introduce new studio spaces for activities such as spin and aerobics classes, broadening its appeal as a community hub. An innovative pool pod is also planned, enhancing accessibility for the swimming pool area.
Make Architects has been tasked with the design, while Hadron Consulting will manage the project. The contract was procured through the SCF framework, demonstrating a collaborative approach to delivering public infrastructure projects.
This renovation continues a series of successful collaborations between Willmott Dixon and Westminster City Council. Earlier this year, the firm was appointed for the Westmead development to construct 65 affordable homes, and in previous projects, they have delivered significant residential developments, enhancing the housing landscape in the area. Willmott Dixon’s managing director, Stewart Brundell, expressed delight at continuing this fruitful partnership, emphasising the importance of rejuvenating the centre for future generations.
The Seymour Centre’s transformation is poised to revitalise community engagement and promote sustainability in central London.
