Council presses ahead with proposed Manor Leisure Centre redevelopment after contractor ceases trading
Fenland District Council is continuing to progress plans to redevelop the Manor Leisure Centre in Whittlesey following confirmation that the contractor originally intended to deliver the scheme has ceased trading with immediate effect.
Above: Artist's impression of the proposed Manor Leisure Centre redevelopment
The Council has been informed by its project delivery partner, Alliance Leisure, that Curo Construction, which had been undertaking pre‑contract design and development work for the project, has ceased trading.
As soon as Alliance Leisure was notified, they met with Curo and subsequently cancelled all ongoing pre‑contract activity. Fortunately, Alliance works with a number of construction partners and began an immediate review of other suitable firms with the capacity to continue the project without unnecessary delay.
Following this review, and in consultation with the Council, Speller Metcalfe has now been appointed to undertake the final stages of the pre‑contract RIBA Stage 4 work.
All other project partners - including project management, quantity surveyors and architects - remain the same.
Above: Artist's impression of the proposed viewing area
Speller Metcalfe is currently being fully briefed on the scheme, and a revised project programme is expected within the next week.
Cllr Steve Count, Fenland District Council's Portfolio Holder for Fenland Inspire! Manor Redevelopment, said: We recognise that residents and local businesses will have questions following the announcement that the firm has ceased trading. Our priority is to ensure continuity for this proposed redevelopment and to keep the project moving forward. Alliance Leisure acted quickly to secure an alternative contractor, and we are pleased that Speller Metcalfe is now progressing the remaining pre‑contract work. We will provide further updates as soon as the revised programme is confirmed."
The Council is planning to redevelop the centre as part of its member-led Fenland Inspire! investment campaign, which aims to enhance leisure facilities and public spaces across the district.
The project is subject to both planning permission and Cabinet approval before any construction can begin. Cabinet is expected to consider the final detailed designs and make a decision in summer 2026.
- For more information on Fenland Inspire! projects, visit: Fenland Inspire!
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May 2026
