Dover District Council’s Cabinet has delivered fantastic news for the community by giving final approval for the construction of the multi-million pound Deal Leisure Centre! This latest step gives the green light for building work to start immediately, following the full planning permission granted in August.
The centre will replace the Tides Leisure Centre pool building with an exciting, modern facility featuring a six-lane swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, health and fitness studios, fun pool inflatable sessions, and a dedicated toddler splash pad. Crucially, the centre is designed with enhanced accessibility in mind, boasting a new platform lift and a ‘Changing Places’ facility, which will allow the venue to host wheelchair sports and welcome everyone in the community.
While a competitive tendering process is underway to appoint a long-term operator, the centre is set for a phased opening, with dry-side facilities planned for April 1, 2026, and the full centre opening by summer 2027.
Cllr Kevin Mills, Leader of DDC, said:
“We are delighted to have given the go ahead for the construction to start on this major new investment for Deal. A brand new leisure centre with modern facilities will be a welcome addition for all residents to enjoy. We have consulted with residents and worked hard to accommodate their feedback. This centre is affordable and meets the needs of all in our community who want to stay fit and well. We are pleased to be able to deliver this exciting project despite the numerous challenges we’ve faced in recent years.”
For more information on the new Deal Leisure Centre, please see the dedicated website at www.new-deal-leisure-centre.co.uk
Important Notes:
In accordance with DDC’s Constitution, executive decisions made by Cabinet are subject to call-in by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee. The period for call-in expires four working days after the record of decision is published. Therefore, the information contained in this release may be subject to further review and changes and may not reflect the final decision.