The Outdoor Sports Centre first opened its doors in 1938 and has long been a cornerstone of Southampton’s sporting landscape. For generations, it has played a central role in supporting athletes, community clubs, and residents of all ages in pursuing sport and physical activity. The next chapter in the centre’s legacy began with a ceremonial ground-breaking event, marking the official start of regeneration works. The event brought together main contractor Morgan Sindall, representatives from Southampton City Council, local sporting clubs, and other key partners.
Southampton is a city with a rich sporting heritage, and this ambitious redevelopment will provide modern, inclusive facilities designed to inspire future generations. Whether individuals aspire to become track athletes, compete in grassroots team sports such as football or hockey, or simply enjoy informal recreation, the centre will offer a space that supports everyone’s journey in sport and active living.
The new Outdoor Sports Centre has been carefully planned with inclusivity at its core. Residents from all communities across the city will benefit from upgraded amenities including a new Community Hub and Family Zone. The centre will also feature all-season access to improved netball and tennis courts, a new athletics grandstand, and three state-of-the-art artificial grass pitches.
Southampton City Council has emphasised the importance of providing sports facilities that are accessible to all, particularly for groups who may face barriers to participation. The enhanced access and expanded opportunities at the redeveloped centre are part of a wider ambition to address health inequalities across the city and promote wellbeing through increased physical activity.
It was also announced that BH Live has been appointed to manage the city’s leisure facilities, including the Outdoor Sports Centre, from September 2025. BH Live brings extensive experience in operating public leisure services in partnership with local authorities. Their focus will be on increasing usage across all age groups and abilities, boosting participation, and supporting the long-term sustainability of Southampton’s leisure infrastructure.
In addition to improving facilities, the project is already creating tangible benefits for the local economy. As part of the St Mark’s School redevelopment previously delivered by Morgan Sindall, a construction-focused careers programme was run in local schools. This initiative led to five young people from Southampton being employed by the company, with two now working directly on the Outdoor Sports Centre project.
Looking ahead, the redeveloped centre is expected to help put Southampton on the map as a leading sporting destination, capable of hosting major regional and even national competitions. It will be a space for both elite performance and everyday enjoyment, reinforcing the city’s commitment to sport, health, and community development.
www.southampton.gov.uk/people-places/parks-open-spaces/outdoor-sports-centre/