Morgan Sindall Refurbs Hackney’s Kings Hall Leisure Centre

Key Points

• Morgan Sindall Construction’s London business has commenced the refurbishment of the Grade II-listed Kings Hall Leisure Centre in Hackney.
• Hackney Council selected Morgan Sindall for the project, procured through the Southern Construction Framework (SCF).
• The £68.7m development encompasses refurbishing the existing large pool, constructing a new large pool, and adding a smaller teaching pool.
• Key heritage features, including the existing facade, historic entrance, glazed bricks, and balustrades, will be repaired and preserved.
• New-build elements include a cycle store, double-height sports hall, accessible entrance, sauna, and steam room.
• The project remains on track for handover in autumn 2028.
• Morgan Sindall collaborates with architect FaulknerBrowns, civil and structural engineers Alan Baxter, cost consultants Atkins Realis, Hadron Consulting, and Ares Landscape Architects.
• Richard Dobson, Area Director of Morgan Sindall Construction in London, described the centre as a “cornerstone of the borough” and highlighted community engagement through apprenticeships and local employment.
• Morgan Sindall previously delivered the Britannia Leisure Centre in Hackney in 2021, applying lessons from that project to minimise disruption.

Hackney (East London Times) January 22, 2026 – Morgan Sindall Construction’s London business has begun the refurbishment of the historic Kings Hall Leisure Centre, a Grade II-listed building in Hackney, with a commitment to preserve its key architectural features during the £68.7m project selected by Hackney Council through the Southern Construction Framework (SCF).

The development includes refurbishing the centre’s existing large pool alongside the construction of a new large pool and a smaller teaching pool. Additional restorative work will repair the facade and maintain the historic entrance, glazed bricks, and balustrades central to the building’s heritage. New facilities such as a cycle store, double-height sports hall, accessible entrance, sauna, and steam room will enhance the centre’s offerings, with completion targeted for autumn 2028.

What is the Scope of the Kings Hall Refurbishment Project?

The project balances heritage preservation with modern upgrades at the Kings Hall Leisure Centre, located in Hackney. Morgan Sindall Construction’s team will refurbish the existing large pool while building a new large pool and a dedicated teaching pool to serve diverse community needs. Repair works extend to the building’s facade and historic entrance, ensuring the retention of distinctive glazed bricks and balustrades that define its Grade II-listed status.

New-build components introduce contemporary amenities, including a cycle store to promote sustainable transport, a double-height sports hall for expanded activities, a fully accessible entrance, and wellness facilities like a sauna and steam room. These additions aim to revitalise the centre as a multifunctional hub. The total investment stands at £68.7m, procured via the SCF framework by Hackney Council.

Morgan Sindall’s London business leads the delivery, drawing on expertise from prior local projects. The initiative underscores a blend of conservation and innovation, safeguarding the structure’s historical integrity while adapting it for 21st-century use.

Why Was Morgan Sindall Selected for This Project?

Hackney Council appointed Morgan Sindall Construction through the established Southern Construction Framework (SCF), a procurement route known for efficient public-sector partnerships. This selection reflects Morgan Sindall’s proven track record in delivering complex leisure projects in the borough, notably the 2021 Britannia Leisure Centre redevelopment.

The four-storey Britannia project involved intricate designs and diverse facilities, with Morgan Sindall implementing measures to reduce disruption for residents. Lessons from that endeavour, such as community-sensitive construction practices, will inform the Kings Hall works. Richard Dobson, Area Director of Morgan Sindall Construction in London, emphasised the firm’s suitability, stating:

“It’s a real privilege to work with Hackney Council to restore Kings Hall Leisure Centre.”

Dobson further noted the project’s alignment with local priorities, positioning Morgan Sindall as an ideal partner for this high-profile heritage refurbishment. The SCF process ensured competitive tendering, prioritising capability in heritage-sensitive builds.

How Will Heritage Features Be Preserved?

Preservation forms the cornerstone of the refurbishment, given the Kings Hall Leisure Centre’s Grade II-listed designation. Morgan Sindall commits to repairing the existing facade and restoring the historic entrance, with particular attention to glazed bricks and balustrades—elements emblematic of the building’s architectural heritage.

These features will remain intact throughout construction, avoiding any alterations that could compromise their originality. The approach mirrors best practices in listed building refurbishments, integrating modern engineering without detracting from historical authenticity. Collaboration with specialists like architect FaulknerBrowns ensures compliance with heritage regulations.

Civil and structural engineering firm Alan Baxter will oversee structural integrity, while landscape architects Ares focus on sympathetic external enhancements. Cost consultants Atkins Realis and Hadron Consulting provide fiscal and technical oversight, guaranteeing that preservation efforts stay within the £68.7m budget.

What New Facilities Will Kings Hall Leisure Centre Gain?

Beyond restoration, the project introduces forward-thinking amenities to elevate user experience. A new cycle store encourages eco-friendly access, aligning with Hackney’s cycling initiatives. The double-height sports hall will accommodate a broader range of activities, from team sports to fitness classes.

An accessible entrance addresses inclusivity, removing barriers for disabled visitors. Wellness options, including a sauna and steam room, cater to relaxation and recovery needs. These additions complement the refurbished pools: the existing large pool, a new large pool for lap swimming, and a teaching pool for lessons.

The enhancements position Kings Hall as a versatile community asset, supporting health and leisure post-2028 handover. Morgan Sindall’s design integrates these seamlessly with heritage elements, creating a cohesive facility.

What Did Richard Dobson Say About the Project?

Richard Dobson, Area Director of Morgan Sindall Construction in London, described the appointment as “a real privilege.” As reported in the original coverage from Morgan Sindall Construction’s announcement, Dobson stated:

“This historic building is a cornerstone of the borough, so we’re immensely proud to be part of its revitalisation, bringing life back to the centre with fresh facilities, all while preserving the original features that the community has grown to love.”

Dobson highlighted the dual benefits, saying:

“Not only is this project an opportunity to deliver a much-needed upgrade on Kings Hall Leisure Centre, but to give the people of Hackney the space they deserve to stay active and enjoy the centre’s facilities.”

He also outlined community involvement:

“This is a great chance to get to know Hackney’s local community who will be joining us on site through apprenticeships, work placement opportunities and local labour employment.”

These remarks, attributed directly to Dobson via Morgan Sindall Construction’s press release, underscore the firm’s commitment to local impact.

Who Are the Key Partners Involved?

Morgan Sindall leads a multidisciplinary team for the Kings Hall project. Architect FaulknerBrowns handles design, ensuring aesthetic and functional harmony. Alan Baxter provides civil and structural engineering expertise, critical for heritage works.

Atkins Realis serves as cost consultants, managing the £68.7m budget. Hadron Consulting offers specialised project management, while Ares Landscape Architects plans external spaces. This consortium, selected alongside Morgan Sindall via SCF, brings complementary skills to deliver on time by autumn 2028.

The partnership builds on Morgan Sindall’s 2021 Britannia Leisure Centre success, where similar collaboration minimised community disruption.

What Lessons from Britannia Leisure Centre Apply Here?

In 2021, Morgan Sindall completed the Britannia Leisure Centre in Hackney, a four-storey complex with varied facilities. The project navigated complex designs while prioritising resident comfort through noise reduction and phased works.

These strategies will transfer to Kings Hall, enhancing efficiency and public goodwill. Dobson referenced this experience implicitly, noting pride in local revitalisation efforts. The Britannia handover demonstrated Morgan Sindall’s adeptness at borough-scale leisure upgrades.

When Will the Project Complete and What is the Timeline?

Construction has commenced, with the full refurbishment and new-build elements on track for handover in autumn 2028. This timeline accommodates detailed heritage works alongside pool and facility installations. Hackney Council anticipates minimal long-term disruption, informed by prior projects.

Progress updates will likely feature community engagement, aligning with Dobson’s apprenticeship pledges. The SCF procurement expedited startup, positioning the project for timely delivery.

Why is Kings Hall a Cornerstone of Hackney?

Dobson labelled Kings Hall “a cornerstone of the borough,” reflecting its longstanding role in community leisure. The refurbishment revives this status, blending history with modern vitality. Upgrades address contemporary demands for pools, sports halls, and wellness amid Hackney’s growing population.

Local employment and training opportunities further embed the project in borough life. Preservation ensures future generations inherit its legacy, reinforcing cultural continuity.

This comprehensive refurbishment, valued at £68.7m, exemplifies public-private synergy in urban renewal. Morgan Sindall’s involvement promises a landmark revival for Hackney’s residents.