Work set to start on new car park at Berwick Leisure Centre

Previous contractor went into administration

The new leisure centre replaces the former Swan Centre.
Author: Ally McGilvrayPublished 21st Mar 2023
Last updated 21st Mar 2023

Work's set to start on building a new car park at the leisure centre in Berwick.

The development had stalled after Tolent Construction - the company appointed to complete the project - went into administration.

But Northumberland County Council has announced replacement contractor Premier Plant & Civil Engineering Limited will start on site next week, with the first of 171 new spaces due to be available in July.

As well as a new car park, the external works also include a new playpark and landscaping, with all the works due to be fully completed by August.

READ MORE: Online fundraiser launched to help Kelso teenager 'stuck' in hospital for six months

Councillor Jeff Watson, Cabinet member for healthy lives at Northumberland County Council, said: “Advance Northumberland have been managing the build on behalf of the council and have been working with the administrators, the current subcontractors and professional advisors to appoint a new contractor as quickly as possible.

“It is great that the project is being re-started so quickly and that customers can soon enjoy the additional car parking.“

READ MORE: Selkirk defeat Melrose to lift Border League trophy

The new leisure centre - which was built on the site of the former Swan Centre - has now been operational for a year.

But motorists had complained about the lack of parking spaces following the demolition of the old building.

When completed the new car park will also boast 14 electric vehicle charging points. 

Pupils from Berwick Academy helped celebrate the opening of the new four-court sports hall in November.

Do you have a story you'd like to share on the radio? Email our reporter: ally.mcgilvray@bauermedia.co.uk

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.