Groundbreaking for new £20m Deal Leisure Centre – pictured above are DDC Cabinet Member Cllr Lynne Wright with representatives from Alliance Leisure and Pellikaan

A groundbreaking ceremony was held today to mark the start of construction work on the new multi-million pound Deal Leisure Centre.

The exciting new £20m centre is being developed by Dover District Council, working with development partner Alliance Leisure, and construction work is being carried out by contractors Pellikaan.

A range of facilities is set for the new centre, including a six lane pool, gym, health and fitness studios, pool inflatable fun sessions and a toddler splash pad, as well as a café. Enhanced accessibility includes a new platform lift and Changing Places facility.

The groundbreaking ceremony today was led by Cllr Lynne Wright, DDC Cabinet Member for Community & Corporate Property, who was joined by a range of representatives from key partners.

This follows news in Oct 25 that it was all systems go for the new leisure centre. In Nov 25, DDC confirmed that Everyone Active is to take on the management of the new leisure centre when it opens in summer 2027.  Demolition of the old leisure centre was completed in February 2026.

Cllr Kevin Mills, Leader of Dover District Council said: “We are very pleased to see the groundbreaking ceremony take place and to see construction work starting on the new leisure centre.  This is fantastic news for the district, and a brand new leisure centre with modern facilities is a major investment in facilities for our communities.”

Steve Winter-Rose, Business Development Manager at Alliance Leisure, said: “Alliance Leisure are proud to be working in partnership with Dover District Council to bring this exciting new leisure centre to Deal. The groundbreaking event marks the start of a project that will deliver a modern, accessible and sustainable facility designed to serve the community for generations to come. From high-quality fitness and swimming provision to inclusive spaces that welcome people of all ages and abilities, this development truly is fit for the future and we look forward to seeing it take shape over the coming months.”