Ebbsfleet Development Corporation – Feasibility Study

Strategic Drivers

Having supported Ebbsfleet Development Corporation (EDC) with the development of the new Active Ebbsfleet Sports Participation and Physical Activity Strategy for Ebbsfleet Garden City, SLC was commissioned by EDC to develop a feasibility study and delivery strategy for a new ‘landmark’ leisure facility. The study supports EDC’s placemaking aspirations for the development of the first Garden City in 100 years which aims to be a national exemplar in terms of the quality of place, with health and wellbeing at its heart and within which citizens are positively encouraged to embrace healthy lifestyles.

Delivering the Vision

Building on existing knowledge of the area and the results of relevant studies, SLC and associates GT3 Architects worked closely with EDC, its local stakeholder partners and Sport England to identify facility mix options to meet the future needs of the Garden City and the neighbouring authorities of Gravesham and Dartford.

A comprehensive appraisal of potential sites across the Garden City development areas identified Blue Lake in Ebbsfleet Central to be the optimal site for development of the facility. RIBA Stage 2 plans were developed by GT3 Architects and supported by capital costings, revenue business plans and an appraisal of management options for consideration by the EDC Board.

The opportunities presented by Blue Lake for complementary water-based activity led to SLC undertaking further feasibility work on the development of an outdoor pursuits centre. Engagement with local stakeholders and clubs identified demand for a range of water-based activities which connect strongly with the indoor sports, leisure and community offer provided by the main facility.

The projects were reviewed by the EDC Board and approval given for the development of the Strategic Outline Business Case (SOBC). SLC are now supporting this SOBC stage and have undertaken market engagement with leisure operators on the RIBA 2 designs, agreed a pricing strategy with stakeholders to further inform the revenue business plans and developed a detailed programme of use to inform car parking requirements.

TESTIMONIAL