Major plans for a new leisure centre in Deal with a six-lane pool, gym, fun inflatable sessions and a toddler splash pad have now been agreed.

Councillors have given approval for the ambitious £20m project to proceed to the next stage of development, including an additional swimming lane and leisure options.

Original plans were for a five-lane pool and no dedicated splash pad, but after considering feedback from the public following nine engagement events and further testing the financial implications, an extra lane and leisure opportunities have been included in the scheme.

This will be in addition to a new state-of-the-art gym and health and fitness studios, toning tables and cafe area. 

The new-build facilities will potentially be delivered by summer 2027 and integrated with the existing sports hall and indoor tennis centre.

Your Leisure has been approved as interim operator of the sports hall and indoor tennis centre allowing these facilities to remain open while work progresses on the £20m Deal Leisure Centre project.

Your Leisure will be offering a programme of continued activities supporting members, clubs, group exercise classes alongside a continued alternative gym offering.

Site enabling works started in July, and hoarding has been being erected around the site prior to the demolition works taking place later in the year.

The new temporary entrance and reception area is now open for customers, offering accessibility to the sports hall, gym and tennis centre while the building work takes place.

The new plans are bringing forward a range of exciting new facilities for the area, while working to ensure the project remains affordable and deliverable. Planning permission was granted in August 2025.

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To keep updated on the project, please follow the ‘new Deal Leisure Centre’ topic at www.dover.gov.uk/keepmeposted

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Proposals were given the green light at Dover District Council’s Cabinet meeting in January. 

Dover District Council’s Cabinet gave the approval for Your Leisure as interim operator in February.

The demolition of Tides Leisure Centre was agreed by Cabinet in May.

More information can be viewed at www.dover.gov.uk/meetings

Contact Major Projects

Email: MajorProjects@dover.gov.uk