The refurbishment of Marylebone’s historic Seymour Centre will begin this summer as the site has now closed to begin the extensive £42m redevelopment.
Construction firm, Wilmott Dixon, are due to be appointed as principal contractors with work including an open plan gym space on the lower ground floor creating a new and accessible space for gym users. The air circulation and ventilation of the building will also be improved, and new studio spaces and leisure facilities for spin, aerobics and other classes will also be provided.
The upgrade to the five-court sports hall will also see new flooring installed to make it more accessible for wheelchair users. Additionally, the pool will become more accessible with the installation of a pool pod as well as coming in line with the council is commitment to make sure the highest level of accessible changing spaces is installed across ActiveWestminster’s portfolio. The spa on the lower ground floor will also be improved, and all changing rooms will be modernised with new male, female, gender neutral changing areas provided. The Centre’s popular climbing wall will be given a refresh.
Central to the plans is to bring the Marylebone Library into the Centre, creating a first-class library space over two floors. The ground floor library will house a dedicated space for children as well as a new café, and there will be additional space for a children’s soft play area, buggy parking, and bookable community spaces. The first-floor library will include ICT facilities and quiet reading spaces.
The council has engaged extensively with the local community through a series of events and surveys. Since 2021, over 2000 people have engaged with the consultation with the council officers facilitating over 35 workshops, stakeholder meetings and consultation events as well as more than 800 survey responses submitted. This feedback has been vital in shaping the plans for the future of the Centre to ensure that it meets the needs of local residents.
With work beginning in early summer, a target completion date has been set for of early 2026. This remains in line with council’s a commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2030 with improvements to heating, temperature and ventilation in the refurbished Centre helping to reduce carbon emissions.
Cllr David Boothroyd, Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform at Westminster City Council said:
Work to improve the Seymour Centre is fast approaching and there is a real appetite to get going with the redevelopment.”
“Transforming the Seymour Centre will ensure our residents have access to first-class facilities, giving them the chance to stay active and continue the activities they love.”
Published: 7 March 2024