Millions of Pounds to be Invested in Leisure Facilities

Berkhamsted Leisure Centre exterior

Dacorum Borough Council is making a significant investment of £23 million in its leisure facilities.

This investment will ensure Hemel Hempstead and Berkhamsted Leisure Centres continue to meet the needs of local communities and support healthier, more active lifestyles.

As part of the Council’s ‘Our Plan for Dacorum 2024–2028’, the major programme of upgrades and maintenance will enhance the quality of facilities, improve customer experience, and contribute to the health and wellbeing of residents.

The programme includes:

  • Upgrades to Berkhamsted and Hemel Hempstead Leisure Centres – including new sports hall flooring, poolside improvements and remodelling reception and café areas.
  • Re-tiling of five swimming pools at Hemel Hempstead Leisure Centre.
  • Vital maintenance works to ensure long-term sustainability including replacement windows and new external cladding.
  • Introduction of energy-saving measures to reduce carbon emissions such as new circulation pumps and LED lights across the sites.
  • Expansion of renewable energy initiatives, building on the recent installation of 762 solar panels at Hemel Hempstead Leisure Centre.

This investment reflects Dacorum Borough Council’s commitment to providing excellent leisure services that are accessible, sustainable, and tailored to the needs of the local communities.

Councillor Adrian England, Portfolio Holder for Place, at Dacorum Borough Council, said: ‘I’m smiling and full of hope and purpose for our area, to be starting this project to improve our leisure facilities. It is so good for our communities and for families, that we enable and inspire the communities we serve to lead healthier, more active lives.

‘This investment supports the Council’s broader vision for Dacorum, aligning with our goals to improve public health and wellbeing, reduce environmental impact, and create characterful community spaces.’

Everyone Active, the longest-established leisure contractor in the UK, operate both Hemel Hempstead and Berkhamsted Leisure Centres.

Steve Cox, Everyone Active Area Contract Manager, said: ‘Everyone Active is delighted that Dacorum Borough Council is moving ahead with this significant investment into the borough’s leisure centres.

‘We’re proud to work in partnership with the Council and fully support its ambition to modernise and enhance the local leisure offer. Refurbishing these much-loved facilities will help even more people in our community to get active and enjoy the benefits of a healthier lifestyle.’

Work on the sites is expected to begin in 2026.