Bingham Leisure Centre

YMD Boon were appointed to provide full architectural services for the design and delivery of Bingham Arena, a new two-storey leisure centre in Nottinghamshire. Working in collaboration with Henry Riley and Willmott Dixon, the 5,500m² facility provides a high-quality, sustainable destination for sport, fitness, and wellbeing within the community.

The centre features a 25-metre competition pool with 330 spectator seats, a 13 x 7-metre learning pool, café, two exercise studios, a spin studio, a fully equipped gym, and modern changing facilities. Externally, it includes car parking for over 200 vehicles, with accessible spaces to ensure inclusivity.

From the outset, the council’s vision focused on creating a low-carbon, future-proof facility that aligns with their sustainability goals. YMD Boon prepared a comprehensive sustainability report and explored green technology options, ultimately targeting BREEAM Energy points. A fabric-first approach enhanced insulation and airtightness, achieving a 78% reduction in carbon emissions compared to other borough leisure centres.

The pool design incorporates an innovative Myrtha steel-frame system, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 45% and offering superior longevity and resistance to chemicals. Despite challenges including contaminated ground, high water tables, and COVID-related delays, the project was delivered successfully through proactive collaboration, value engineering, and a strong commitment to sustainable, practical design that will serve the community for decades to come.