Project Overview

Project Brief

The regeneration of the King Alfred Leisure Centre is a cornerstone of Brighton & Hove City Council’s 10-year Sports Facilities Investment Plan (2021–2031). The vision is to create a modern, energy-efficient, inclusive leisure destination that reflects the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s users. The new centre will replace the ageing current building with a high-quality facility fit for a growing and diverse community.

Key goals include:

  • A wider range of facilities to improve health and wellbeing.

  • An inclusive design for all ages, abilities, and genders.

  • A centre that supports elite athletes and grassroots users alike.

  • A building that achieves strong sustainability and energy efficiency targets.

Smialing Woman jogs on a treadmill
The photo shows several contractors collaborating on a project over a blueprint plan of a building site.

Designs and Facility Mix

Although full visuals are in development, the proposed features include:

  • A 25m x 8-lane swimming pool for competitions and community use.

  • A separate teaching/training pool.

  • Leisure water.
  • An 6-court multi-use sports hall.

  • A large, fully-equipped gym.

  • Assisted fitness suite.
  • Multi-use studios for group exercise and wellness and community activities.

  • Changing facilities including accessible changing.

  • A café and social hub space.

  • Provision for dry-side and aquatic spectator seating.

  • Family entertainment zone.
  • Spin/interactive cycling studio.
  • Onsite parking.

Expected timeline of events

Project begins
Summer 2022

Council begins reviewing options for replacing the King Alfred Leisure Centre.

Decision made on seafront site
July 2024

Decision confirmed to redevelop centre on the existing seafront site.

Alliance Leisure appointed
January 2025

Alliance Leisure appointed as development partner to lead the project team.

Community engagement
Spring - Summer 2025

Community engagement continues and concept design work progresses.

Planning submission
Late 2025

Planning submission expected to be submitted.

Construction begins
Early 2026

Preliminary site works anticipated to begin.

Targeted completion
Spring 2028

Targeted completion and opening of the new leisure centre.