Maldon contract developments
We're investing £6 million into your centres
In December 2024, Maldon District Council awarded Places Leisure a 20-year contract for the operation and management of Blackwater Leisure Centre, Dengie Hundred Sports Centre and the Splash Park in Promenade Park. As part of the new contract, Places Leisure has committed to investing £6 million across the sites.
The investment will be completed in phases over the next 18 months, with the first phase at Blackwater Leisure Centre due to begin in August 2025.
The first phase will result in the closure of the main sports hall to allow for major work to be completed to turn the current space into a state-of-the-art Gym and Clip & Climb facility. Unfortunately, this will mean that regular users of the hall will no longer be able to use the space. Engagement through consultation with regular facility hires to provide both temporary and permanent alternative options, has lead to the vast majority of regular hires being relocated within the Maldon district. Consultation continues with the remaining hires to provide successful relocations
Please continue to visit this website for further updates regarding these exciting developments.
The below exciting facilities are coming to Blackwater Leisure Centre...
Brand-new gym - December 2025
We’re excited to announce the development of our brand-new state-of-the-art gym, designed to support every fitness journey with the latest in training technology. Our facility will feature a full range of brand new gym equipment, including Pulse IFI accessible machines to ensure an inclusive and welcoming space for all abilities. Experience the future of fitness with our cutting-edge EGYM smart strength training circuit, SmartFlex intelligent stretching stations, and Speedflex high-intensity training systems that adapt to your level and goals.
Clip 'n Climb - December 2025
We’re excited to announce the development of our brand-new Clip 'n Climb experience - a vibrant, action-packed climbing adventure featuring 15 unique climbing elements and 23 individual climbing lines. Our facility will also include a dedicated party room, perfect for unforgettable celebrations, as well as a comfortable viewing area with tables and seating for family and friends to relax and enjoy the action.
New studios - Spring 2026
We’re proud to unveil that the works of our remodelled workout studios will take place in Spring 2026. The new layout includes two spacious group workout studios and a dedicated group cycling studio equipped with 25 high-performance bikes. To add variety and flexibility to your fitness routine, we’ll be offering a wide range of live and virtual classes, all enhanced by immersive mood lighting technology that adapts to the energy of each session. Plus, we’ve invested in brand-new Les Mills Smart Tech equipment - engineered for performance, comfort, and results.
Health Suite - Summer 2026
We’re delighted to share that a brand-new Health Suite is scheduled to open in Summer 2026 - a serene space designed to offer the ultimate in relaxation and wellbeing. Once complete, it will feature an aromatic citrus steam room to invigorate the senses, a calming and detoxifying salt room to support respiratory health, and a relaxing sauna designed to purify the skin and melt away stress. The suite will also include deeply soothing heated loungers, perfect for unwinding and recharging in total comfort.
Splash Pad - Summer 2026
We’re thrilled to announce the transformation of the former jungle river area into an all-new, exciting nautical-themed splash pad! Featuring interactive river play elements, a hands-on water table, and imaginative nautical touches throughout, the splash pad offers endless fun and refreshing adventure.
As part of our commitment to sustainability, we are making significant investments in energy reduction across our facilities. These improvements include the installation of energy-efficient LED lighting, which greatly reduces electricity consumption, and a new solar PV array that harnesses renewable energy to help power operations. We’ve also implemented a backwash recovery system to reduce water waste and improve overall efficiency. Additionally, a destratification system has been introduced to optimize air circulation and temperature control, further decreasing our environmental footprint. These upgrades represent a proactive step toward a greener, more energy-conscious future.
We can't wait to share these developments with you. Keep your eyes peeled for further updates!