Greenwich to Demolish Waterfront Leisure Centre for Woolwich Housing

Key Points

• Greenwich Council plans to demolish the 30-year-old Waterfront Leisure Centre in Woolwich.
• Demolition will occur after the new Woolwich Waves leisure centre opens later this year.
• The Waterfront site covers 2.25 acres by the Thames, near Woolwich Ferry south dock.
• The council aims to develop housing on the cleared site, contributing to local affordable housing targets.
• Greenwich Council’s cabinet will discuss the demolition and redevelopment plans on 19 November.
• Woolwich Waves will be a state-of-the-art facility with pools, slides, gyms, sports halls, and community spaces.
• The council seeks to avoid anti-social behaviour and security costs associated with a vacant Waterfront Leisure Centre.
• The overall regeneration of Woolwich includes other key projects like the Tramshed Theatre refurbishment and Woolwich Works opening.

What are Greenwich Council’s plans for the Waterfront Leisure Centre?

As reported by local sources, Greenwich Council intends to close and demolish the existing Waterfront Leisure Centre in Woolwich after the new Woolwich Waves facility opens later in 2025. The Waterfront Leisure Centre, which has served the community for about 30 years, sits on a 2.25-acre site along the Thames near the south dock of the Woolwich Ferry.

Cllr Majid Rahman, Cabinet Member for Planning, Estate Renewal and Development, told the media:

“Once open, Woolwich Waves will be one of the most impressive, state-of-the-art leisure centres in the country with swimming pools, water slides, a gym across two floors, a soft play area and much more located in the heart of the town centre.”

He emphasised that the closure of Waterfront Leisure Centre is part of the long-term plan connected to Woolwich Waves.

The council plans to demolish the Waterfront building as soon as it becomes vacant, to prevent anti-social behaviour and reduce security costs associated with empty premises. Following demolition, the site will be prepared for sale via a transparent and competitive process aimed at securing the best outcome for the borough.

How will demolishing the Waterfront Leisure Centre contribute to housing needs?

According to Cllr Rahman and Greenwich Council statements, repurposing the cleared Waterfront Leisure Centre site will enable new housing development. The council has prioritised housing delivery, aligning with both its own and the Mayor of London’s affordable housing targets.

The council spokesperson noted that the project supports broader regeneration efforts in Woolwich, complementing major initiatives such as the refurbishment of Tramshed Theatre, the launch of Woolwich Works, and significant town centre improvements. These combined efforts aim to make Woolwich more attractive for residents, visitors, and businesses.

What facilities will Woolwich Waves offer?

Woolwich Waves will bring a significant upgrade in leisure amenities to the area. The new centre will include:

• A 25-metre, eight-lane swimming pool
• Water flumes and slides
• A health suite and spa
• A large gym spanning two floors
• Sports halls and squash courts
• A soft play area for children
• Various community spaces for local activities

The centre name, Woolwich Waves, was chosen through a public vote.

When will Woolwich Waves open to the public?

While Greenwich Council has not confirmed an exact opening date, reports indicate that the authority aims to welcome visitors next month, signalling completion of construction and readiness for operation.

How many homes will be built near Woolwich Waves?

Greenwich Council hopes to build 557 new homes on the site behind Woolwich Waves. These are expected to be housed in multiple tower blocks, further contributing to the housing stock in this area of Woolwich. This aligns with the council’s commitment to regeneration and addressing housing demand in the borough.

What is the timeline for decision-making on the demolition and redevelopment?

The council’s cabinet is set to discuss and potentially approve the demolition and future sale of the Waterfront Leisure Centre site during the upcoming meeting on 19 November 2025.