The Viscount House site on General Gordon Square is currently being cleared, in preparation for construction of a high-quality sports and leisure facility, which is expected to begin in spring 2023. Cabinet Members Cllr Okereke, Cllr Smith and Cllr Khaireh visited with ward members to see how demolition of the site is progressing.

Cllr Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Council, said: 

“The Council's state-of-the-art leisure centre with a pool, gym and spa, nearly 500 high quality homes, commercial space and a community square in Woolwich town centre has got another step closer, following on from planning permission being granted in September. These facilities are at the heart of our investment in the town centre alongside the refurbishment of Tramshed Theatre and improving public areas around Powis Street and Beresford Square."

Cllr Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Equality, Culture and Communities, said: 

"The Woolwich Leisure Centre scheme will offer a range of facilities, including swimming pools, a gym, and spa, sports hall, squash and badminton courts, and five-a-side football pitch. Flexible community spaces, a creche, soft play area and a café will also be provided.

"The first phase has seen major refurbishment works taking place at the Tramshed Theatre next door. The refurbished theatre is due to reopen in December with an exciting programme of activities for young people and adults, including those with learning difficulties.

"With top quality venues like Woolwich Works and Tramshed, Woolwich’s cultural scene has so much to offer, both to local families and visitors from across London - there will be something for everyone."

Cllr Aidan Smith, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said:

"The Woolwich Leisure Centre scheme will bring so many benefits for local people - accessible, high quality leisure facilities, affordable new homes and nearly 140 construction jobs alone as well as apprenticeships and training opportunities. 

"Four hundred and eighty-two new homes will built by our development partner, The Hill Group, including 168 affordable homes, made up of 117 homes for shared ownership and 51 homes for rent by local people on the Council's housing list."

Find out more about the Woolwich Leisure Centre project.