New Woodhouse Close Bishop Auckland leisure centre delayed

The £26.6 million plan to build a new Woodhouse Close Leisure Complex in Bishop Auckland was approved in November 2023.  

However, the Local Democracy Reporting Service understands progress with the development has been delayed due to issues with a gas pipe underneath the leisure centre. 

Durham County Council said it will confirm the main programme of works in due course. It initially hoped to open the new site in 2025. 

The centre is the oldest facility in County Durham, serving one of the region’s most challenged communities, and was previously deemed “no longer fit for purpose”. 

A review of the existing site found the facilities are beyond their lifespan, in poor condition, and struggle to meet modern standards.

Two new swimming pools will be created at the new site, which will offer a range of sports and community facilities, providing fitness studios, a community cafe, soft play, and a wellness hub.

Last year, the council outlined a timeline for the redevelopment, as work on the new two-storey building will take place over four phases. 

In phase one, the existing library building will be demolished. Phase two will see the construction of the new building before the current complex is demolished. New car parking will then be created as part of phase four. 

How the new leisure centre could look (Image: Durham County Council)

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A Durham County Council spokesperson said: “Work on the new leisure centre for Bishop Auckland is progressing. We are finalising arrangements for the new build, which includes utilities and services, and will confirm the main programme of works once these are in place.”

The Bishop Auckland development is part of a council project to improve leisure facilities across the region. Sites in Peterlee and Pity Me, Durham, have recently reopened after receiving upgrades. 

However, other proposed upgrades have been shelved due to funding issues. Durham County Council warned that building new leisure centres and improving existing facilities would be too risky and cost £109 million.