Consulting | Design
Kingsmead Leisure Centre
Client: Fusion Lifestyle
Project overview
This project focused on the refurbishment and remodelling of the existing Kingsmead Leisure Centre in Canterbury, Kent, along with the addition of new studio extension areas.
Key enhancements included the creation of a new foyer and entrance, refurbishment of the administration and sales offices, development of a new servery and café seating area, upgrades to WC and dry changing areas, construction of new gym studios, refurbishment of wet changing facilities, and installation of new mechanical and electrical (M&E) systems.
The project scope evolved due to structural complexities and was significantly impacted by delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted the leisure industry due to lockdown restrictions.
Throughout this period, we supported the client with adaptive design solutions to meet the changing needs.
The MEP design featured high-efficiency systems, including low-carbon heat pumps that significantly reduced the site’s reliance on gas.
Project impact
The objective was to design and deliver new mechanical, public health, and electrical services for a refurbished and remodelled leisure centre, incorporating energy-efficient, reliable, and high-performance systems. The design approach prioritised user comfort, system flexibility, and effective control across all services.
Acoustic surveys and noise assessments were required to satisfy planning conditions related to new external plant. Norse Group collaborated with the client’s acoustic consultant to ensure all planning requirements were fully met.
The existing structure presented a number of design and structural challenges, which necessitated several changes to the initial concept. Norse Group provided ongoing support to the client, helping to identify cost-effective design solutions while maintaining the high standards expected within the leisure sector.
Key stakeholders included Fusion Lifestyle, Active Life Ltd, and Canterbury City Council, with funding support from Salix via the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS).
The project was delivered in multiple phases to coordinate with the operational needs of the facility.
To maintain public access to key facilities, including the swimming pool, during construction, the works were carefully phased. This approach minimised disruption and allowed continued use of portions of the centre while refurbishment progressed.
Value engineering exercises were conducted to ensure the project remained within budget without compromising on the quality of finishes. The successful PSDS funding application provided the financial flexibility to deliver a low-carbon solution in line with the project’s environmental goals.
The design team engaged closely with the client through regular coordination meetings, gathering detailed feedback and incorporating it into the design through room data sheets and drawings. This collaborative approach ensured that client requirements were clearly understood and accurately implemented.
Sustainability
Norse Group led the client through the PSDS funding application process, securing support from Salix to implement low-carbon technologies. The design replaced gas-fired heating with air-source heat pumps and integrated energy-efficient systems including MVHR ventilation, LED lighting, and a photovoltaic (PV) generation system. Our role included the preparation of all necessary technical documentation and guidance for both Fusion Lifestyle and Canterbury City Council throughout the application process.
Our team included certified low-carbon consultants who provided the expertise necessary to deliver an energy-efficient, sustainable design in alignment with the funding requirements and long-term environmental goals.