£2million Sport England grant gives major boost to proposed Whittlesey leisure centre redevelopment

The funding supports the Council's proposed £18.67million redevelopment of the centre, part of its member-led Fenland Inspire! investment campaign to enhance leisure facilities and public spaces across the district.

Above: Artist's impression of the proposed Manor Leisure Centre redevelopment

Developed in partnership with Alliance Leisure, the project sets out a full redevelopment and expansion of the existing swimming pool building and the demolition of the separate sports hall. If approved, the scheme would replace the ageing facilities with a modern, purpose-built community hub offering a much wider range of activities and community uses.

The redevelopment proposals would also boost the wider Manor field and park area. If taken forward, a new café would be enjoyed by both leisure centre and park users, while a new artificial‑turf PlayZone - due to be constructed separately in the coming months - would further enhance the site.

The £2million grant has been awarded through Sport England's Place Capital Funding, which provides significant investment to local authorities looking to deliver large-scale improvements to their sports and physical activity facilities.

Cllr Steve Count, Portfolio Holder for Fenland Inspire! Manor Redevelopment, said: This is a huge milestone for the redevelopment of the Manor Leisure Centre. The support from Sport England not only brings vital funding to the project but also demonstrates real confidence in our plans. This investment will help us deliver a centre that meets the needs of Whittlesey's growing population for decades to come."

The project remains at proposal stage and is subject to both planning permission and Cabinet approval. Cabinet is expected to consider the final detailed designs and make a decision in summer 2026.

Lisa Dodd-Mayne, Executive Director of Partnerships and Place, Sport England, said: This £2million investment is a major boost for Whittlesey and a strong vote of confidence in Fenland District Council's vision. Their ambitious plans for Manor Leisure Centre will transform an ageing facility into a vibrant community hub, creating more opportunities for local people to enjoy sport, physical activity and time together for many years to come."

If approved, the proposed facilities would include:

• A modern entrance with café and social space, including space for buggies and mobility equipment
• A refurbished 25-metre, six-lane pool and learner pool
• A larger gym and two fitness studios
• A new, enhanced soft play facility
• Flexible event space and community room
• Three covered padel courts
• A new skate park and enhanced rifle range
• Considerable improvements to accessibility
• Enhanced links to outdoor spaces
• A larger car park

The new facility would also incorporate new roofing, additional solar panels, enhanced insulation to modern standards, and upgraded mechanical and electrical systems, ensuring the building is efficient to run and provides a comfortable environment for customers.

The planning application for the redevelopment was submitted in December 2025 and can be viewed via the Council's Public Access portal (reference: F/YR26/0179/FDC): www.publicaccess.fenland.gov.uk/publicaccess/

The application follows a public survey in September 2025, which invited residents, leisure centre users and community groups to share their views and help shape the proposals.

• For more information on Fenland Inspire! projects, visit: Fenland Inspire!

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May 2026