Westminster locals, avid Time Out readers and racket sport enthusiasts may recall the 2024 announcement of a £42 million upgrade for Marylebone's Seymour Centre. The 1930s leisure centre was slated for a comprehensive makeover including an upgraded sports hall, a new café, and a permanent home for the Marylebone Library. Originally expected to reopen by early 2026, the project has faced significant delays.
Delays and Cost Overruns
As April 2026 draws to a close, the leisure centre remains far from completion. Construction firm Willmott Dixon has extended the deadline four times since work began, citing unforeseen issues. Asbestos discovered in the ceiling—a known carcinogen linked to lung cancer and asbestosis—required remediation. Additionally, problems with the Grade II-listed building's heritage windows caused further setbacks.
“Seymour Leisure Centre is a listed building, and the council's priority is to restore the building while respecting its listed status and historic character,” a Westminster City Council spokesperson stated. “A number of unexpected issues came to light once works had started, which meant we had to carry out additional checks with the relevant authorities. This has unfortunately led to a delay with the overall project.”
New Timeline and Features
The Seymour Centre is now expected to reopen in spring 2027, having been closed since February 2024. The total cost has risen to an estimated £44 million. Once operational, the three-storey building will feature a children's soft play area, an open-plan gym, and an improved climbing wall.
The council acknowledged the disappointment but emphasized the goal of delivering a fully refurbished facility. “We understand this delay will be disappointing for residents, but we look forward to reopening a fully refurbished Seymour Centre as soon as possible,” the spokesperson added.
