Plans to develop a new Sports Quarter leisure development in Peterborough are one step closer following the approval of a £20million government grant for a new swimming pool.
The funding, from the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade (BIST), will go towards a new eight-lane 25-metre pool.
Cabinet also approved entering into Development Management Agreements with Alliance Leisure Services (ALS) Limited to progress early works and main construction for the new facility, so that it can remain on track to open in the autumn of 2028.
The swimming pool will form part of the city’s new Sports Quarter development, which includes a 20m activity pool, cafe, family play, health and wellbeing rooms, a 150-station fitness suite and two studios, plus a spin studio.
Councillor Zameer Ali, Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Safety, said: “The confirmation from Government of this funding is so important as it brings this much-needed facility another step closer for our city.
“I want to thank our officers for their tireless work on this project and the BIST for approving this grant, demonstrating our government’s commitment to developing community-enhancing facilities such as this.
“As previously stated, our residents deserve to have access to high-quality swimming facilities, and this new leisure centre will give them a modern, accessible place to swim, exercise and enjoy activities with family and friends, while supporting our key goal of better health and wellbeing across the city.
“We are hoping to begin site clearance in November, ready for main construction to start early in the new year.”
Minister for Small Business and Enterprise Lord Leong said: “Thanks to £20 million from the Growth Mission Fund, Peterborough will get a brand-new leisure centre that will help more people of all ages dive into swimming, stay active, learn new skills and connect with their community.
“This is about creating places that communities can be proud of, improving health and wellbeing, and making Peterborough an even better place to live.”
Cabinet members also approved additional budget for the development, with expected costs exceeding the £37.1m initial budget envelope agreed by Full Council in February 2026, which was based on initial early designs and planning.
The increase is largely due to required highways-related works outside the development area, plus higher costs for steel, timber, mechanical and electrical equipment and insulation as a result of the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Iran.
