A local authority in Hampshire is looking for a contractor to build and operate a leisure centre, with the deal worth £195m.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has given firms until 20 December to throw their hats in the ring.

The winning bidder will run the existing Basingstoke Aquadrome while it designs and builds its replacement facility, which is set to include an eight-lane 25m competition swimming pool, a smaller teaching pool and a family fun pool with flumes.

The scheme will also feature a 150-station gym, spin studio and three class spaces.

Soft play, party rooms, a cafe and a climbing wall or similar feature will also be required.

The chosen contractor will then run the facility along with Tadley Health and Fitness Centre and Basingstoke Golf Centre.

A lengthy procurement process is expected to lead to a final contract being awarded in the spring of 2026.

The initial deal is anticipated to last for 20 years, with a potential five-year extension.

Another contractor that has won a public sector contract in Hampshire is VolkerFitzpatrick. The firm revealed this month that it received the green light for a £100m upgrade of a motorway junction on the M27 after Hampshire County Council confirmed all legal and funding arrangements were in place.

In other leisure sector news, North East Derbyshire District Council last month said its development partner, Alliance Leisure, had appointed Nottingham-headquartered Universal Civils & Build to finish the Clay Cross Active leisure centre in Chesterfield after original contractor ISG went under.

Meanwhile, Graham this summer won a contract to finalise the design of a health and leisure hub in Northern Ireland.