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Search the Public Notice Portal New pictures have revealed the scale of progress at Bishop Auckland’s £28.9 million leisure centre and library complex, with council bosses saying the development remains on track.
The latest photos show a large steel framework taking shape at the former Woodhouse Close Library site, with sections of the building’s walls and roof now being installed.
Scaffolding and construction equipment can be seen around the site.
Bishop Auckland leisure centre Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
The photos give the latest indication of the sheer size of the new facility, with its main structure now becoming increasingly recognisable from surrounding roads.
Ben Kelsey, Durham County Council’s senior manager for project and performance, said: “The Bishop Auckland Leisure Centre programme remains on track, with good progress being made on the construction of the new building. Residents and passers-by will be able to see the new centre taking shape as work continues.”
The complex will bring leisure and library services together in one location, with swimming pools, fitness suites, a Move Hub and community spaces planned as part of the development.
Durham County Council said the scheme remains on schedule despite previous delays, including the discovery of a gas pipe at the site.
Bishop Auckland leisure centre Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
Plans for the redevelopment were first approved in November 2023, but the project did not meet its original target of starting work in late 2024 after a previously appointed contractor entered administration.
Work on site has since progressed, with a ground-breaking event taking place in September 2025.
A report by Tony Hanson, the council’s corporate director of regeneration, economy and growth, previously said: "Although work on site has progressed well, a short delay was incurred due to the discovery of a large mains gas pipe which was uncovered to the north-west corner of the site.
"Despite extensive investigation during the design stages and engagement with statutory service providers, the pipe discovered was not in the place identified on formal plans and therefore had to be safely managed and appropriately diverted.
"This clashed with the location for aspects of the new building’s foundations and has resulted in a minor programme delay.
Bishop Auckland leisure centre Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
"This won’t materially affect the programme overall and although this has resulted in a cost impact, this is manageable within the overall project budget and allocated contingencies."
The new build facility is supported by £2.75 million in funding from Sport England.
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Councillor Joe Quinn, cabinet member for resources, investment and assets, previously said: "This project is being delivered as part of our Leisure Transformation Programme through which we have been creating modern and accessible facilities across our towns to encourage more residents to engage with leisure activities and live healthier lives.
"The new centre also supports our wider ambition to build better communities and thriving towns through the provision of up-to-date facilities."
Construction is expected to continue through 2026, before testing and fit-out work takes place ahead of the planned opening in 2027.