The Hive Leisure Centre 

Connecting People and Places: How the Hive’s Design Enhances Accessibility and Encourages Active Lifestyles.

The ‘Hive’ Leisure Centre forms the second phase of the mixed-use leisure and retail ‘village’ development. This vibrant complex includes a leisure centre, a six-screen cinema, six restaurant and takeaway units, and two drive-thru units, complemented by 380 car parking spaces. Access to the site is provided by two new junctions on Downham Road, shared with neighbouring sports clubs and The Hive Leisure Centre. A convenient underpass for pedestrians and cyclists further enhances connectivity. 

Detailed planning permission was granted in June 2016, and the centre was completed in the spring of 2018. Funding was provided by East Cambridgeshire District Council, supported by a £1.5 million lottery grant from Sport England. All facilities comply fully with Sport England Design Guidance, Sports Governing Bodies, and Football Foundation requirements, ensuring high standards throughout. 

The Hive Leisure Centre officially opened in May 2018, offering a range of impressive amenities. It features an eight-lane, 25-meter swimming pool and a learner pool with a movable floor. Additionally, a health club with a 120-station gym, two activity studios, and a four-court sports hall is included. To support various sports activities, wet, dry, and outdoor sports team changing rooms are available, along with a full-size Artificial Grass Pitch (AGP). 

Designed as a set of intersecting boxes, each section of the building serves a specific function and is characterized by unique materials and finishes. These clean, cuboid forms create a functional mix of facility blocks, allowing views between activity spaces, which enhances the user experience. 

Externally, 320 parking spaces are available, including accessible parking and cycle parking options. A dedicated service area, delivery access, vehicle drop-off point, and circulation lay-by are also provided. Additionally, 3G all-weather pitches ensure that the Hive Leisure Centre meets the needs of all visitors, offering a comprehensive and modern leisure experience. 

Results

The Hive Leisure Centre has been a resounding success, significantly enhancing the local community’s recreational and leisure offerings. The project has also boosted the local economy, with the addition of multiple restaurants and retail units. Overall, The Hive has revitalised the area, providing a modern, accessible, and enjoyable space for everyone. 

May 2018