Morpeth Sports & Leisure Centre was designed by GT3 Architects and constructed by Willmott Dixon. It was funded by Northumberland County Council and delivered by Advance Northumberland – the development arm of the county council.

The facility, which acts as a bookend to the high street, incorporates a new community services hub, which includes a double height community library, a customer service centre, plus a new adult learning facility with classrooms for a number of courses.

There is also a six-lane swimming pool with spectator gallery, flexible learner pool, spa facilities, a variety of fitness spaces, a multi-use sports hall and large studio space designed to hold community events and a café, with connections to a poetry garden and outdoor terraces that act as an important social space for families and tourists alike.

“Inclusivity is at the heart of this project and that’s what makes it so different. With the modern high street in decline, this facility offers the unique opportunity to not only provide sports and leisure but a central place for residents to gather, learn and socialise – a true community hub that complements the nearby town centre offering,” said Paul Reed, director and sports and leisure lead at GT3 Architects.

The complex is now open and run by Active Northumberland, the charitable trust that manages leisure services across the county on behalf of Northumberland County Council.