We’ve begun work on Highlight Leisure Centre
We’ve officially started work on Hartlepool’s new multi-million-pound leisure centre, Highlight.
We are a leader in the construction of sport and leisure centres nationally and bring this expertise to the project following our appointment by Hartlepool Council.
A range of preparatory site works and the discharging of planning conditions have all commenced ahead of the start of groundworks, which will include the construction of the new building’s foundations, in January.
Highlight, which will open at The Waterfront in autumn 2025, will replace the town’s existing Mill House Leisure Centre which has been in operation since 1972.
We have appointed a number of local subcontractors and are utilising a local supply chain where possible to ensure the borough and wider North-East area benefit from this project.
Highlight’s facilities will include three pools – one incorporating water play features; a gym; fitness, dance and activity studios, a soft play area, a children’s party space and a café, in addition to significant outdoor areas to make use of the stunning and unique setting for the new facility.
It is so exciting to be in the position where we have now started work on Highlight, one of the biggest investments to be made in Hartlepool for decades. It further demonstrates how we are delivering on our ambitious regeneration plans for the Borough.
A lot of hard work has been required over a lengthy period of time to reach this point, but the Council has never wavered in its determination to proceed with this scheme and make it happen.
It is going to be a truly eye-catching building with a range of fantastic facilities. There will be a real focus on family fun and it will provide so many benefits for residents of Hartlepool, whilst also attracting visitors from further afield.”
Councillor Mike Young
Leader of the Council
This project will have a huge impact on Hartlepool and we’re honoured to be working on such an ambitious, exciting build.
We’re committed to ensuring benefits are felt by the wider region beyond the fantastic new facilities that are being created, and we’re working in close partnership with Hartlepool Borough Council and our supply chain to create new jobs and education opportunities, as well as supporting community initiatives throughout construction.”
David Wingfield
Regional Director for Wates Construction – Yorkshire & North East
I am delighted that work is underway, and it demonstrates how the Council is determined to provide high-quality services and facilities for the benefit of local people.”
Councillor Bob Buchan
Chair of the Council’s Adult and Community Based Services Committee
Designed by GT3 Architects in collaboration with the Council’s own in-house team, Highlight grows in height from west to east to provide panoramic views of The Waterfront site, Hartlepool marina and out to sea.
The building’s strong linear lines are inspired by the railway tracks which ran from local timber and coal yards into the former dockland site during the 19th and early 20th centuries and will once again reanimate a site that has remained dormant for a number of years.
