Work is set to begin on site this spring for Gravesend’s new Cascades Leisure Centre, marking the start of a major transformation for the borough.
Gravesham Borough Council and Willmott Dixon are moving forward with early site activity that will prepare the ground for construction of the new low-carbon leisure facility. Demolition works will commence in early spring, clearing space for the new centre and readying the site for setup.
The new Cascades Leisure Centre (CGI below) will replace the existing ageing facility with a modern building designed to host regional events and provide an enhanced family fun offer. Plans include a 25m pool, 17m learner pool, aqua play and water flume area, spectator seating, a six-court sports hall, multi-level soft play zone, party and community rooms, and a café.
Willmott Dixon was first announced as the council’s construction partner in September 2025, when it was appointed for the pre-construction phase via a direct award through the Pagabo framework.
Richard Poulter, Willmott Dixon’s managing director in the South: “This is an exciting moment because people will start to see activity on site. The new leisure centre will be an outstanding facility for the local community, combining sustainability with exceptional family-friendly spaces.”
Cllr John Burden, Leader of Gravesham Borough Council, said: “After two years in the planning, and following extensive lobbying supported by our local MP Lauren Sullivan to secure government funding for this project, this will be a landmark day for the borough. Regular users of Cascades will testify that it is at the end of its natural life, and a modern, energy-efficient replacement is needed.
“To see shovels in the ground on site after all the hard work to get to this point will be tremendously rewarding.”
Lauren Sullivan MP added: “After a long journey it was great to see the start of this fantastic work on a brand-new regional sports and leisure centre for the people of Gravesham and beyond. This has been achieved through a working partnership between Gravesham Borough Council and the government, who have funded this. With Willmott Dixon as the construction partners – I look forward to seeing the project grow and develop into a fantastic community facility for the borough.”
