Construction vehicles and tradesmen are already at work on the district's new leisure centre at Whitfield.

The plans for the £26million project was passed by the district council cabinet on Monday and scrutiny committee on Tuesday, meaning residents can look forward to its opening - anticipated early 2019.

Its location at the 2.1 Hectare site Honeywood Parkway takes the facility away from the town centre and the present Townwall Street sports and fitness hub will probably be demolished.

It comes after a long campaign about the present site's suitability, with pictures being leaked to Kentonline's sister newspaper the Dover Mercury and a petition was started about the poor state of changing rooms and hygiene.

The upgrade of facilities and expansion makes way for the anticipated growth of the district with thousands of homes being built now and in future years at sites in Whitfield, across Deal, Walmer and Sandwich.

There will be a competition standard eight-lane swimming pool with spectator seating for 250 people and learner pool with moveable floor.

There will also be a four-court sports hall, squash courts, multi-function room, fitness gym, fitness studios, clip and climb wall and a café.
The plans also include two outdoor 3G artificial pitches for five-a-side football and at least 250 parking spaces.

A tweet from Dover District Council marked the start of work with the words: "Get set, go – construction vehicles are now on site as work starts on the £26m Dover District Leisure Centre."

Cllr Paul Watkins, Leader of Dover District Council, said: “This is a major investment in the health and well-being of the district. We are grateful for the support of Sport England in developing these exciting proposals, and would like to thank the many stakeholders, local sports clubs and individuals who have contributed ideas. We look forward to delivering a 21 century leisure centre fit for the district.”

Charles Johnston, Property Director for Sport England, said: “We’re delighted that we’re able to provide National Lottery funding to help create this superb new leisure centre for the community in Dover. It will offer visitors a great experience, which is crucial in encouraging people to live more active and healthy lives.”

The project has been supported by Sport England with a £1.5million grant.

Cllr Paul Watkins, Leader of Dover District Council, said: “This is a major investment in the health and well-being of the district. We are grateful for the support of Sport England in developing these exciting proposals, and would like to thank the many stakeholders, local sports clubs and individuals who have contributed ideas. We look forward to delivering a 21 century leisure centre fit for the district.”

Charles Johnston, Property Director for Sport England, said: “We’re delighted that we’re able to provide National Lottery funding to help create this superb new leisure centre for the community in Dover. It will offer visitors a great experience, which is crucial in encouraging people to live more active and healthy lives.”

Following competitive tenders, the Council has awarded a contract to BAM Construction to create the new leisure centre.

Daniel Brenchley, project manager for BAM, said: "Having built in Dover recently, it’s particularly satisfying to return especially to create something that so many people will enjoy using. Our work in this beautiful county is extensive, as is our knowledge of the local supply chain and the community. We’ll bring our customary skills, expertise and collaborative attitude to this important and landmark scheme.”