The existing Mill House Leisure Centre has reached the end of its effective life and is in need of replacement. This presented the opportunity for a new active wellbeing hub ‘Highlight’ to be more strategically located to become a must-visit destination and a community venue offering a range of opportunities and activities. Highlight will be surrounded by informal outdoor event and activity spaces to support walking, cycling, running, outdoor fitness, with connections for water-sports, utilising Hartlepool Marina.

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Designed by GT3 Architects, Highlight’s strong linear lines are inspired by the railway tracks which ran from local timber and coal yards into the former dockland site during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The building will grow in height from west to east and offer incredible views of the wider waterfront site, marina and sea.

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The mix of facilities will include:

• A 25m 8-lane main pool

• A 25m 4-lane learner pool with movable floor

• A leisure pool including race slide and water play features, spectator seating

• A 100-station gym

• Two inter-connected fitness studios

• An indoor cycling/”spinning” studio

• Active and soft play areas

• A party room

• A café

• An NHS consultation suite

• External ground and first-floor terraces