The well-used Aquadrome is a council facility, which is managed by Basingstoke and Deane Community Leisure Trust and run by Serco.
The council is proposing to build a new water and leisure complex to replace the Aquadrome, so it will remain a popular facility for future generations to enjoy. A modern Aquadrome would represent a significant investment in Basingstoke and the health and wellbeing of local people and is likely to be one of the largest commitments by a district council this year. It will also make a significant contribution to Basingstoke and Deane’s ambition of becoming a carbon neutral borough by 2030.
Options for an improved Aquadrome, which will be built in a new location on the leisure park, have been drawn up by sports and leisure sector experts, looking at what was likely to be most successful after exploring current usage, gaps in what is provided in the area and wider trends.
At a meeting in February 2024, the council’s decision-making Cabinet approved the range of new facilities that could be provided and how the new energy-efficient centre will be delivered.
Improvements being proposed
Improvements include a 25 metre eight-lane pool (two lane increase), 20 metre four-lane learner pool and leisure water with slides. Three large studios, a spinning studio and 150-station gym are proposed to the health and fitness facilities. Other facilities include a multi-level soft play frame, indoor adventure climbing and party rooms.
Working with potential leisure providers, other additions to the facility that could be considered could include extra water space, a sports halls or spa. And, as part of this project, the council is keen to explore whether there are options and opportunities for providing for ice skating facilities for the future, if needed.
The proposed facilities have been developed based on feedback provided as part of a consultation on a modernised or new Aquadrome ran during February and March 2022 and activities identified in the borough’s Leisure and Recreational Needs Assessment.
Next steps
Following the decision, a formal search for a leisure specialist to design, apply for planning permission for, build and run the new council-owned centre at Basingstoke Leisure Park will now begin. You can find out more about the proposed facilities and next steps on the Leisure Park and Aquadrome webpage.
It is expected that a planning application for the new complex would be submitted in summer 2026 and the facility could open in December 2028, if planning permission is approved.
