University’s £36m sports hub handed over

The construction of a £36m sports hub at the University of Warwick has completed.

Delivered by construction company Willmott Dixon the 16,684 sq ft Sports and Wellness Hub replaces all former on-campus health and fitness facilities.

Designed by David Morley Architects, the main hall is a multi-functional space and offers a 15m-high climbing wall with 144 different route while the gym has 230 stations.

Externally, there are 3G sports pitches, car parking, and netball courts, with the hub acting as the training ground for Coventry’s Wasps Netball Superleague team.

The swimming pool features a boom – a floor that can be raised or lowered to accommodate competitions or general use, at the touch of a button – while digital technology in the rowing room gives users a sense of rowing outside.

Peter Owen, managing director for Willmott Dixon in the Midlands, said: “This was a hugely exciting and unique project. The design of the building and the level of smart technology that has been implemented throughout is outstanding.

“This project also featured extensive innovative use of digital construction technology, beyond BIM, which was crucial in achieving a quality finished product.

“We have a strong existing relationship with the University and were able to finish the outdoor sports pitches six months early, so that they could be hired out and generate income.”

Lisa Dodd-Mayne, director of sport and active communities at the University of Warwick, said: “The Sport and Wellness Hub is a world-class facility in Coventry and Warwickshire open to everyone and will inspire everyone who walks through the door to get active.

“We have worked closely with Willmott Dixon for the duration of the project to deliver on the design and it is fantastic to see it now ready to open.  The Hub is more than just a building – it will transform and change people’s lives.

“As a University, we are working toward being the most active campus in the UK by 2020 and the Hub will be central to achieving that goal.

“The Hub will transform sport on our campus, but it is also open to members of the public and local communities, to take advantage of one of the finest facilities in the region.”

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