Greenwich Council has confirmed that the ageing Waterfront Leisure Centre in Woolwich will be demolished to pave the way for new housing, marking a significant step in the area's ongoing regeneration.
A New Era for Woolwich Leisure
The decision to close and subsequently demolish the 30-year-old facility comes as the council prepares to open its new flagship leisure centre, Woolwich Waves, which is scheduled to welcome the public next month. The closure of the existing centre has always been part of the long-term plan for delivering the new facility.
Councillor Majid Rahman, Cabinet Member for Planning, Estate Renewal and Development, stated that Woolwich Waves will be "one of the most impressive, state-of-the-art leisure centres in the country" upon its opening.
Redevelopment Plans for the Prime Site
Once the old leisure centre ceases operations, the council intends to knock down the building to prevent issues with anti-social behaviour and the security costs associated with a vacant property. The focus will then shift to repurposing the valuable 2.25-acre site located by the River Thames, just east of the Woolwich Ferry south dock.
The council's cabinet is set to discuss and is expected to approve these plans at a meeting on Wednesday, November 19. Following demolition, the land will be prepared for a future sale through a transparent and competitive process designed to secure the best value for the borough.
Driving Forward Woolwich's Transformation
The redevelopment of the Waterfront site is a key component in addressing the pressing need for more housing in London. The project will contribute significantly to both Greenwich Council's and the Mayor of London's affordable housing targets.
This move is part of a broader portfolio of transformative projects in Woolwich. Cllr Rahman highlighted other recent developments, including the refurbishment of the Tramshed Theatre, the opening of Woolwich Works, and extensive town centre improvements, all aimed at making Woolwich a more attractive destination for residents, visitors, and businesses.
The new Woolwich Waves leisure centre, a name chosen by the public, will feature an eight-lane 25-metre swimming pool, water flumes and slides, a health suite and spa, a large two-floor gym, sports halls, and squash courts. In a related development, the council also hopes to build 557 new homes in several tower blocks behind the new facility.
