Southampton: Outdoor Sports Centre work to start next year

The city council has given itself planning permission to upgrade almost every part of the 150-acre complex, which was built before the Second World War.

The centrepiece of the proposed development is a large "community hub" building boasting a cafe, gym, multi-function rooms and changing facilities.

The scheme includes major improvements to the outdoor ski centre (Image: Southampton City Council)

Council bosses are also planning "significant improvements" to the Alpine Snowsports Centre, including a new ski lodge with a reception area and party rooms.

The scheme also includes three indoor netball and tennis courts and three all-weather football pitches, plus a new athletics clubhouse and a 240-seat grandstand.

The former boating lake will be transformed into a "family zone" with a raft of facilities, including a children's play area.

Improved pedestrian and cycle routes across the centre are also planned, along with a woodland car park with 275 spaces.

A drone image of Southampton Outdoor Sports Centre, which is set to undergo a £30m upgrade (Image: Southampton City Council)

A council spokesperson said: "Since the opening of the sports centre in 1938 there have been some changes, modifications and improvements made to the facility.

"However, it was recognised that there was a clear requirement for a future vision to be established to develop key areas."

Community engagement events and city-wide consultations resulted in a draft improvement plan, which was approved by the council's ruling cabinet in 2022, and the submission of a planning application.

The proposed upgrade was welcomed by the public following a 12-week consultation in 2021.

The centre was opened by the Duke and Duchess of Kent in 1938 (Image: Newsquest.)

The spokesperson said 97 per cent of respondents wanted to see improvements at the centre, with 85 per cent saying they would use the centre more often if the changes were made.

The scheme will be financed by £20m from the government's levelling up fund, plus match funding and money from external bodies.

Cllr Toqeer Kataria, cabinet member for communities and leisure said: "The approval of the planning application is a fantastic milestone for the project.

"We are committed to getting more funding for the city and the successful bid from the Levelling Up Fund of £20m will enhance the opportunities available at the centre.

Southampton Bike Park is near one of the five cricket pitches at the sports centre (Image: Newsquest.)

"We understand how important it is to have open spaces which help in tackling inequalities in sport and physical activity and improve the quality of life of residents by providing inclusive access to sport and deliver sustainable economic, social, health and wellbeing outcomes."

The centre was opened by the Duke and Duchess of Kent in 1938.