Future development options for the former leisure centre site
Winchester City Council is inviting residents to attend a public engagement event about the next steps and potential future options for the former leisure centre site.
Last year, the city council began an open process to find a partner to invest in the site. Commercial Property Agents- Lambert Smith Hampton, were appointed to market the site and at this initial stage, 12 expressions of interest were received.
Councillor Kathleen Becker, Cabinet Member for Healthy Communities, said: “This new year signifies an exciting time for this site, and we’re really pleased with the quality and quantity of initial interest we’ve received.
“We really encourage people to come along and find out more about this next stage in the process. This drop-in event provides people with a useful recap of our agreed approach and the opportunities and constraints of this site, learn more about the expressions of interest received and hear what comes next in the process. People will also be able to ask the project team any questions they may have and importantly have the opportunity to give their feedback and share their views.
“This council wants to keep talking to local people and organisations and maintain momentum on this project, to ensure a positive and sustainable future for the former leisure centre site.”
Winchester City Council committed to finding a new partner to invest in the site, on a long lease basis, as long as the following three conditions were met:
- The green space – whether park, sports or play area, tennis courts or access through the site - is wholly out of scope
- The public have a proper say during the process
- Provision of the skate park and indoor bowling must be absolutely protected
Drop-in engagement event:
Tuesday 27 January 2026, from 3-7pm
The Courtyard, The Guildhall, Winchester, SO23 9GH
There is no need to book. Just pop along, find out more, ask questions and tell us what you think.
Can’t make the event? Don’t worry. From the day of the public event, residents will have the opportunity to read the updated project information and tell us what they think via our website: www.winchester.gov.uk/former-leisure-centre-site