On your marks, get set, go! Athletics facilities redevelopment begins

Major upgrades to the athletics facilities at the Outdoor Sports Centre started at the end of September. The first phase of these works includes security fencing, demolition of the existing grandstand, and the start of excavation works for the new building foundations

The new Athletics Pavilion will feature a club room, registration and scoring room, a first aid room and toilet facilities. There will be a new grandstand with storage facilities. These works are due to be complete in spring 2026.

These new facilities will form part of the overall Outdoor Sports Centre redevelopment, which began in June 2025. This regeneration of the sports centre will support people to live healthy, active and independent lives. 

We have been able to deliver the scope of the Outdoor Sports Centre programme thanks to the funding from the UK Government (previously Levelling Up Fund), Football Foundation and Sport England. The external funding has been secured alongside the council’s capital funding. This £36 million project will support the regeneration of Southampton’s main venue for outdoor sports. External funding has been secured alongside the council’s capital funding.

The sports centre will remain open as much as possible while works are ongoing, but some facilities may have to close at some times. The athletics track will remain open during the works. The redevelopment of the Outdoor Sports Centre is due to be complete in early 2027.

Councillor Toqeer Kataria, Cabinet Member for Leisure and People at Southampton City Council said: “Southampton Athletics Club has a rich history of developing athletic ability to the highest of levels and has been a training facility for medal winning Olympians Kriss Akabusi, Roger Black and Todd Bennett.

“The athletic improvements currently being delivered will ensure individuals of all ages and abilities have access to good quality facilities. The enhancements will help the Club to host events and compete nationally, as well as building on the Outdoor Sports Centre’s legacy of sporting excellence for future generations”.

Clifford Kinch, Area Director for Morgan Sindall Construction said: "We’re proud to be delivering this transformative redevelopment for Southampton City Council, which will provide great facilities for athletes, clubs, and the wider community. The Outdoor Sports Centre has a proud sporting legacy, and these works will ensure it continues to inspire future generations with new and improved spaces.

“Our team is committed to working considerately to keep the site as safe and accessible as possible during construction, and we look forward to unveiling the next phase of works”.