Bishop Auckland leisure centre Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)The photos give the latest indication of the sheer size of the new facility, with its main structure now becoming increasingly recognisable from surrounding roads. The new leisure centre is due to open in summer 2027, while new car parking and wider landscaping work is scheduled to be completed in early winter 2027. Ben Kelsey, Durham County Council’s senior manager for project and performance, said: “The Bishop Auckland Leisure Centre programme remains on track, with good progress being made on the construction of the new building. Residents and passers-by will be able to see the new centre taking shape as work continues.” Bishop Auckland leisure centre Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)"This won’t materially affect the programme overall and although this has resulted in a cost impact, this is manageable within the overall project budget and allocated contingencies."